Ever had that moment as a kid, or in junior high, or high school, when you had a dream about what you wanted to do as a career? I certainly did when I played football in high school—and I talked a lot about how I would become a wide receiver for the Chicago Bears.
Since then, things never went well enough for that to happen (a lack of physical talent and desire to play this game is a big reason why). However, once I was switched over to defense, I was able to learn the game a little bit more completely, as I understood both offense and defense on a fundamental level.
That's why this article is about 10 things I would do if I was their head coach (gotta dream a little, right?).
I decided to break these off into sections. Feel free to make note of the areas I pay more attention to.
Offense
1. Bench Kyle Orton until he's completely healthy.
Look, I really like what Kyle Orton has done this season and I understand that he is the quarterback the Bears (and fans) want on the field...That's why I think he needs to take a seat until his ankle is fully ready.
Besides, Rex Grossman (here comes the groans) is still capable of playing. Sure, he didn't play very well against Detroit or Tennessee, but neither did Orton until the first meeting at Ford field (which was the fifth game of the season).
Quarterbacks, probably more-so than other positions, need a couple of games to dust off the rust from their shoes before they can run without problems. Game-time speed is a very hard thing to replicate in practice...and the only way you can see game-time speed is during a game (brilliant, isn't it?).
I'd rather deal with some tough games from Rex than Kyle coming in early and potentially getting hurt worse than what he is now.
2. Get Kevin Jones more carries.
I understand that Matt Forte has become a huge bright spot for the Bears' offense this year by leading the team in receptions, rushing yards, and is second in the NFL among rookie running backs in yards rushing (777).
But Kevin Jones is an excellent athlete who has the quick burst that the Bears have been looking for in a change-of-pace-back.
Sure, Jones' 3.2 rushing average is probably not very attractive, but just think of what the Bears offense could be if both Forte and Jones start to excel together...in the same game. Or the same season. They could be something like what Carolina's DeAngelo Williams and Jonathon Stewart or the New York Giants' with Brandon Jacobs and Derrick Ward.
Defense
3. Bench Nathan Vasher.
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about 1 month ago
Ian, I really like the article, but of course there are several things i agree and disagreed with.
- Agree with getting Kevin Jones getting more carries just because I am afraid that Matt Forte is going to get run into the ground
- Agree with benching Tommie Harris and activating Anthony Adams. Although I think that Idonije should be getting a start whether its at D tackle or maybe even over Wale there on the end position.
- Disagree with starting Hunter again. Don't get me wrong, I think he is a great guy, but he hasnt been able to cover any tight end we have faced this year. I was actually surprised that they didnt give Jamar Williams a try there because they were fully prepared to let Briggs walk out of here and have Williams take over.
about 1 month ago
Max, you bring up some really good points. Kinda funny that you brought up the Hunter Hillenmeyer thing... I remember thinking about that a little bit as I was typing this article. Very good point. Maybe Hillenmeyer could be like a run-stopping guy while Jamar Williams or Nick Roach could cover the tight ends and receivers.
I also like how you brought up the issue of Jamar Williams not really getting any looks as of late (or this season, really).
Idonije over Wale... that's a pretty nice idea... especially with how much Wale trash talks....
about 1 month ago
Harris is not playing like he used to but the biggest issue is DT Dusty getting blown off the ball and not keeping blockers off Urlacher.
Urlacher is slowing but the Bears need to provide a big run stuffing, blocker eating DT to help him and Harris. That guy is not on their roster...
David Hester isn't a WR, he should concentrate on returns and maybe nickel duty .
The Bears need some of the WR's that they under coached to come back and play now that they have been properly coached up. Justin Gage scored last week, as did Mark Bradley. Bobby Wade's been playing better and then there is Berrian. Maybe its not just the players but the coaching. Why do all these guys play good when they gone?
Same with TD Tom Jones...and RT Columbo could help a bit also.
If the Bears had those guys their offense would be decent...
A WR corp of Berrian, Gage, Bradley, Wade, and Muhammad might actually frighten a defense a tiny bit...
about 1 month ago
Kevin Jones should not get more carries. He played in the first Detroit blow out most of the second half and did not look to well. If anything they need to give Forte more carries.
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