Bears-Jaguars: Chicago Still in the Hunt

Sunday was a big day for the Chicago Bears—not just for the team, but the fans as well.

Chicago jumped out to an early lead and this time they were able to maintain it. History was also made today in the form of the Bears' 700th win in franchise history.

“It feels good to be part of a franchise that’s gotten that many wins,” Smith said. “The Chicago Bears, we know what they stand for. We just hope that we can get 701 quickly.”

A record-breaking performance was turned in by rookie running back sensation Matt Forte, who eclipsed Gale Sayers' rookie record of 1,374 yards from scrimmage. Adding Forte's 106 yards today, he now holds the record at 1,476 yards.

“It seems like we’ve talked about him the same way every game,” Smith said. “Since the opener, you know what to expect from him. He’s a good runner. He can do all of the things you ask a great running back to do. There’s no rookie wall. He has all those things you look for.”

Does anyone else foresee a Rookie of the Year award for Forte?

Now to the Game

This was just an all around exciting game to watch as the Bears got up early off of a David Garrard interception. It was returned to the Jags' five yard line by safety Danieal Manning and the Bears turned it into points with a Kyle Orton pass to tight end Desmond Clark.

Tight end Greg Olsen was also able to contribute with one of the most heads up plays of the year. After hauling in a 22-yard pass from Orton, Olsen had the mindset to stretch the ball across the goal line before his knee was down, resulting in another touchdown.

“It was a great play,” Olsen said. “Prior to that we had run a few corner routes, and the safeties were playing pretty wide. Coach Ron Turner made a good call. We just felt we could go right down the middle on them. Kyle made a great throw and we were able to score real quick before halftime.”

Chicago came out on top 23-10 and are now one game out of the division lead at 7-6 (Minnesota Vikings 8-5).

Keys to the Game

At one point in the game, the Bears were up only 20-10. That became a concern as even the commentators pointed out that the Bears' play calling was getting too conservative. The good news is that Chicago got the message and went on the offensive again. As long as they continue that down the stretch, they could easily win out their remaining three games.

Matt Forte again had over 100 total yards from scrimmage and has been the most consistent player for the Bears offense this year. Look for my next article this week profiling Forte and what he has accomplished this year as a rookie.

Concerns

The biggest concern I have is seeing middle linebacker Brian Urlacher giving up on plays and not having the impact he usually has. He had a few important missed tackles and is now easily blocked right out of a play. Urlacher has only 75 tackles and no sacks, compared to last year's 123 tackles, five sacks, and five interceptions.

Lovie Smith holds the fate of this team in his hands. He knows what is needed to get to the postseason, and if he can do what he needs to do, he will be off the hot seat.

Stats

Chicago: QB Kyle Orton 20/34 219 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT. RB Matt Forte 106 total yards, 69 rushing, 37 receiving. WR Devin Hester 5 receptions for 80 yards.

CB Charles Tillman led the defense with six tackles and one forced fumble.

Jacksonville: QB David Garrard 19/38 178 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT.

RB Maurice Jones-Drew led the Jags in rushing and receiving with 102 total yards (55 rushing and 47 receiving) and one TD reception.

CB Brian Williams led the defense with eight tackles.

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