The Bears fought, and clawed and played decently, but it wasn't enough. In the end, Philly was too strong, and the defense for Chicago was non-existant in key moments. For the record, Jay Cutler threw one interception but it came at a crucial time to snuff out a rally as Chicago drove to score a winning TD.
The Bears scored, mainly on the foot of Robbie Gould who kicked four FG's. Cutler threw a beautiful pass to Kellen Davis, as the Bears took an early 4th quarter lead. They even connected for a two-point conversion. But Philly marched down the field and scored a TD of their own to go up, 24-20. Unfortunately, no lead is safe enough for Chicago.
Matt Forte had a good game, rushing for 5-7 yards at one point. He gained yards on offense and moved the chains. But, it was Cutler, who seemed timid in fear of throwing another errant pass. He wasn't the gunslinger tonight. He was careful, but that is not his game. He throws on instinct. He threw passes over 3 receivers on that would have gone for TD's. Those are points off the board.
Philadelphia could be beaten. But not against the Bears, who just don't know how to win a football game. I can't remember when the last time, the Bears won a game. Oh yes, vs. Cleveland. When do the Bears play the Rams?
This team is finding its own level, which is below mediocrity. Calls for the Lovie Smith to be sacked will not happen, because the Bears have a contract for 2 more years with him for big bucks.
The bright spot about this game is the Bears have a good field goal kicker in Robbie Gould. And, they have a dangerous wide-out in Johnny Knox who has blinding speed. This guy can flat out run. Cutler didn't connect on a pass to Knox that would have been a sure six points. He missed Hester and another receiver for what looked like sure TD's. That's a lot of points that weren't scored. Philly could have been beaten. The Bears didn't make plays that would have carried them to a much needed win.
I don't care how many yards the Bears gained or first downs they made. They played a decent game, a credible game, but missed out on their opportunities. And, in the NFL, that fact could mean defeat.
It is amazing that Chicago seemed to make the steal of the year in obtaining the talented Cutler from Denver. But, he has thrown a lot of interceptions and not enough touchdowns. He seems to have been "Bearized"--that is he has managed to play down to the team's level.
Jim McMahon wasn't nearly as talented as Cutler seems to be, but he was a winner. He had the mentality of a linebacker and would do anything to win a game. It didn't matter if he completed 3 passes, as long as the Bears won.
Cutler is a young guy. He needs guidance and support. Maybe McMahon should come and talk some sense into him.
Because it hurts to see a player this wobbly after 10 games with the team. And, it may not get better.
