Bleacher Report - Articles by Zack Pearson

Chicago Bears-San Francisco 49ers: Game Preview

Zack Pearson — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 23:23:14 -0500

Thursday Night Football makes its debut for the 2009 season, and for the third straight year the Bears will be playing.

The good news for the Bears this week is that they get to redeem themselves from last week sooner than they normally would. After that horrendous loss at home against Arizona, that might be a bad thing actually.

The Bears are not in good shape for the division, let alone the playoffs. But there is always a chance. If they were going to make a serious run at the playoffs, it would have to be a wild card berth. So far the Bears are 0-2 against teams they trail in the wild card, Green Bay and Atlanta.

The Bears would need to win this game to qualify for a tie-breaker in case they have a shot at the wild card.

The Bears began a tough four-game stretch last Sunday against the Cardinals with a loss. Not the way you want to start those out. They now have to play at San Francisco, against Philadelphia, followed by a crucial game at Minnesota. It's looking like the Bears will have to win all three of those games to stay alive.

The 49ers started off strong, before losing their last four games to fall to 3-5.

Mike Singletary has his team well prepared every week, something Lovie Smith should start doing.

The Bears are going to have to keep an eye out for Frank Gore. The 49ers running back has already posted a 200-yard game this season, and the way the Bears defense is playing, I could run for 100 yards on them. The matchup to watch is going to be linebacker Lance Briggs going against Gore both in the run and passing game. If Briggs gets blocked off and the Bears defense cannot contain, Gore will make them pay.

The Bears need to control and fill their gaps properly in order to shut down the 49er offense.

A concern I see for the Bears is matching up with tight end Vernon Davis. The Bears really don't have a good enough cover linebacker or safety to matchup with Davis, so the defensive line will need to get pressure and force Alex Smith to get the ball out and make bad decisions.

On the offensive side of the ball, the Bears success will once again depend on the run. Last week we saw the Bears throw the ball on their first eight plays. They gave the Ball to Forte early, who had a couple nice runs, but after falling behind 21-7 the Bears abandoned the run game. Something they cannot do on Thursday.

It's going to be interesting to see how Cutler fares against a 49ers' defense which has struggled, yet played well at times this season. Patrick Willis is going to cause problems for the Bears all game' we'll wait and see how the Bears handle him. If they can block him and take him out of plays, they will be successful in the air and on the ground.

This is a must win for Chicago. Get this win, and then take the next 10 days to prepare for a tough Philadelphia team followed by the Vikings.

If Chicago can get this win they will move to 5-4 and right in the middle of the wild card race. More importantly though, give this team and city some hope.

Jay Cutler Should Make the Bears' Wide Receivers Better in 2009

Zack Pearson — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 21:41:34 -0400

Since losing Bernard Berrian and Muhsin Muhammad to free agency in 2007, the Chicago Bears have struggled to find consistency at wide receiver.

They have tried everything in the world to find a replacement, including converting dynamic return man Devin Hester to a receiver and even bringing in veterans Brandon Lloyd and Marty Booker.

Unfortunately, Booker was a good fit in Chicago during the 2001 season, not 2008.

Last year, the team fielded Booker, Lloyd, Hester, Mark Bradley, and Rashied Davis as their receivers.

Unfortunately, the additions didn't work out too well for the Bears.

Booker had a decent season for the Bears, but not good enough to be re-signed. Lloyd showed promise early in the year before getting hurt. Bradley was traded to Kansas City, where he is now a starter, while Davis had problems catching the ball all of last year.

The only good that came out of that so-called "experiment" last year was the emergence of Hester as a wide receiver.

Hester finished the year with 51 receptions for 665 yards and three touchdowns—not a bad year for his first season as a starting wide receiver.

Still, none of the Bears receivers were good enough for the Pro Bowl. In fact, the Bears haven't had a Pro Bowl receiver since Booker in 2002. Booker is also the only Bears receiver to have more than 100 receptions in a season.

Despite recently struggling to find wide receivers, the well hasn't been completely dry for receivers in Chicago.

Berrian showed potential to be a dominant receiver in Chicago, but he got greedy and signed a big contract to play for the Vikings instead.

Now, Berrian isn't "spectacular" since he has never had more than 1,000 receiving yards in a season.

But with the acquisition of Jay Cutler, who is an established quarterback, things could have been better for Berrian if he had stayed with the Bears.

It's a shame to have Gus Frerotte and Tarvaris Jackson as your quarterback now, huh Berrian?

This leads us to the 2009 season and the receivers that will take the field for the Bears.

There is no doubt whether Hester will start the season as the No. 1 wide receiver on the depth chart, but who will follow him?

The most likely candidates to be No. 2 or No. 3 on the chart are Earl Bennett and Davis.

Bennett didn't play in 2008 because he had trouble learning the playbook, so all this time studying should pay off, right?

On top of playing in Chicago this upcoming season, Bennett also has some history with Cutler. Both played for Vanderbilt in college and know each other well enough on the field.

Davis has been with the Bears for over three seasons now, so he knows the system. He just needs to find a way to apply himself.

Look for Bennett to start as the No. 2 receiver, leaving Davis to be the slot guy.

Now that we have the starters figured out, who is left for the Bears?

The Bears selected two receivers in the draft last April: Juaquin Iglesias from Oklahoma and Johnny Knox from Abilene Christian.

Iglesias will most likely end up fourth on the depth chart and should see some good minutes this season.

He also has the potential to move up to No. 2 or No. 3 on the chart if he plays well.

Knox will most likely fight for a roster spot on special teams or even land on the practice squad.

The receivers may not be too good this year, so don't expect much out of them.

What you can expect, though, is that these receivers should become better over time with Cutler.

Cutler has been known to make his receivers better. We saw it in Denver with Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal. Hopefully, he can do the same with Hester, Bennett, Davis, and Iglesias.

The Bears receivers don't have to be great this season for the team to succeed; they just need to be consistent and do their job when they are expected to.

If they can make key blocks, run the right routes, and catch the ball on third down, the Bears may have a successful 2009 season.

The Bears have enough talent to not need a big-time receiving threat and still win the division.

However, there are still other options for the Bears at wide receiver.

They can dip into the free agent pool that includes Plaxico Burress or even make a trade for Brandon Marshall.

I don't expect the Bears to make either of these moves, even though they have shown interest in Burress.

So Bears fans, get ready for an exciting 2009 season. However, don't be mad if none of our receivers make the Pro Bowl, even if they have a spectacular season.

Just enjoy watching Cutler try to make them better.

The Bear Den: Expect a Breakout Year for Greg Olsen

Zack Pearson — Tue, 07 Jul 2009 00:35:19 -0400

Not only did the Bears improve their quarterback situation this offseason, but by doing so, they also improved their tight ends as well.

Greg Olsen has the potential to be one of the best tight ends in the NFL right now, he just needs a good quarterback to prove it.

Last year Olsen had 54 receptions for 574 yards and five touchdowns. He did that while splitting time with Desmond Clark.

Clark isn't a bad tight end either, and will contribute to the Bears' offense this year as well.

The problem is that Clark is getting old, making Olsen the tight end of the future.

See, here in Chicago we use the tight ends quite a bit. In fact, last year our tight ends finished with 95 receptions for 941 yards and six touchdowns.

While everyone is asking the question, "why don't we pick up a wide receiver to help Cutler?"—the answer is, how about the tight ends?

Last year with the Broncos, Cutler found his tight ends 72 times for 1,034 yards and seven touchdowns.

Cutler also had Pro-Bowl wide receiver Brandon Marshall and emerging rookie Eddie Royal to throw to. Kyle Orton didn't have one Pro-Bowl wide receiver with him.

Now just imagine what Olsen can do when he has Cutler throwing to him...

Olsen might be the second or third option on a lot of pass plays. Olsen has the size, hands, and speed to be a good tight end. He just needs to capitalize on his chances.

The only knock I could find on Olsen last year was his two fumbles against Carolina. But after that game, Olsen didn't fumble once the rest of the season and showed off what good hands he has.

I can see a big year in the books for Olsen this season. When the Bears get down to the red zone, he will be one of the main threats.

The Bears need to utilize Olsen's skills and let the kid play. Olsen will have a big year with Cutler throwing him the ball, and expect him to be in the end zone a lot this season.

The Bear Den: The Top Five Bear Games To Attend In 2009

Zack Pearson — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 23:55:16 -0400

We are on the verge of training camp beginning for NFL teams, and that means one thing.

The 2009 NFL season is getting closer.

The Chicago Bears will start selling tickets to fans on July 25th and I'm sure many fans are excited.

So for those fans planning on attending a game this year, here is a list of the five best games to attend.

Enjoy!

5.) vs. Philadelphia, Sunday Nov. 22, 2009, 7:20 CST

The Eagles come into Chicago for a re-match of last years Sunday Night Football game that went Chicago's way.

Philadelphia expects to be a top team in the NFC in 2009, and will have their eyes on the Super Bowl.

Donovan McNabb also makes his return to his hometown.

This Sunday Night Football game will be a treat for Bears fans, as it always is. The Bears could be in a race for a playoff spot or home field advantage.

4.) vs. Pittsburgh, Sunday Sept. 20, 2009, 3:15 CST

The defending Super Bowl champions come into Chicago to take on our Bears. For fans this should be a treat.

I would expect tickets to sell out fast for this game.

Both teams have good defenses, with the potential of being great defenses. If that stays true, we could be in store for one of those good old fashion defensive games.

In this decade when the Bears play the defending Super Bowl champion, they are 0-2. They lost to Baltimore in 2001, and New England in 2003.

3.) vs. Green Bay, Sunday Dec. 13, 2009, 12:00 CST

Bears-Packers are always a hot ticket when they play, no matter the place in the standings.

This is one of the oldest rivalries in the NFL, and both teams fans just flat out hate each other.

This year the rivalry just got a little bit more interesting. With the signing of Jay Cutler, the Bears now have a stable quarterback. Just like the Packers do with Rodgers.

Getting a ticket to this game might be impossible if you dont get one on July 25th. Connections might work, but who would pass on this?

Both teams could be fighting for the division or a playoff spot.

I advise if you get a ticket to this game, to go and enjoy one of footballs greatest rivalries.

2.)vs. Minnesota, Monday Dec. 28, 2009, 7:30 CST

This is one of the biggest games of the year for both teams. The Vikings come in on a cold December night for a Monday Night Football game.

Brett Favre who will likely be a Viking this year will play in only one cold weather game, and this is it.

This could be a classic game as both teams should be fighting for the NFC North title.

Bears fans, get your hands on this "hot" ticket as these will be sold out fast.

1.) At Green Bay, Sunday Sept. 13, 2009 7:20 CST

The Bears and Packers open up the 2009 season in primetime on NBC's Sunday Night Football.

The rivalry is renewed with two young quarterbacks looking to take their team to the next level.

Sure this game will be played at Green Bay, but it will be worth the drive.

This will be the best game to attend for many reasons. It's one of the best rivalries in the NFL, two young quarterbacks, and its Sunday Night Football to kick off the 2009 season.

The Bear Den: Should the Chicago Bears Go After Brandon Marshall?

Zack Pearson — Wed, 24 Jun 2009 22:13:05 -0400

Ever since Brandon Marshall went on a rage and demanded a trade, there has been some hype about the Chicago Bears trying to land him.

Marshall demanded a trade from the Broncos, stating he was not happy with his contract and wants out.

The first team that came to everyone's mind was the Bears.

Thanks to Jay Cutler being the new Bears quarterback, people were thinking of a Cutler-Marshall reunion.

Most Bears fans are saying yes to bringing in Marshall because of what him and Cutler did last year for the Broncos.

Marshall is a Pro-Bowl receiver, and he has proven that. If he comes to Chicago, he will instantly be the No. 1 wide receiver on the depth chart.

Add that in with the chemistry he has already developed with Cutler, and the Bears could be a contender in the NFC.

Getting a solid No. 1 receiver would help the Bears a lot. Not only would they have a go-to guy, but Marshall would also make Devin Hester better.

As Marshall would draw double coverage, it would leave an opportunity for Hester to shine in single coverage and receive more passes from Cutler.

The negative for bringing in Marshall would be his off the field activity and what the Bears would need to give up for him.

The guy has been a cancer off the field for the Broncos, and the Bears seem like the team that won't tolerate that.

See Tank Johnson and Cedric Benson.

The asking price for Marshall might be a little too much. With the Bears giving up next year's first-round pick to Denver, that takes away trade bait.

For the Bears to land Marshall, it will almost have to be either a 2010 second-round pick and a 2011 second-round pick, or maybe just Devin Hester.

The bottom line is that Marshall would instantly make the Bears better. They would have a solid threat at the receiver position, and a quarterback to give him the ball.

But do they want to give up picks or a player for that?

The choice is yours, Jerry Angelo.

Cubbie Blue: Cubs-Twins Series Preview

Zack Pearson — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 21:12:49 -0400

Minnesota Twins (30-32) @ Chicago Cubs (29-28)

The Cubs start inter-league play when the Minnesota Twins come into Chicago for a three-game series starting Friday, June 12.

The Cubs are coming home after a 4-4 road trip where five out of those eight games resulted in extra innings.

After splitting two games in Atlanta and then winning the series in Cincinnati, the Cubs had a chance to win the series in Houston. But they blew it.

They took the first game easily 7-1 before giving up the lead late in the game and losing 2-1 in the second game. In the third game, the Cubs trailed by one run all game until Derek Lee hit a ninth-inning opposite field home run to tie it.

The Astros would win on a Blumm single in the 13th.

Not a bad road trip for the Cubs to say the least. They gained some ground in the division, and are now only two-and-a-half back of Milwaukee.

One thing I noticed on the trip was Derek Lee. Lately he has been hitting well and producing runs. Lee will need to keep this up if the Cubs want to stay in contention.

The Twins are coming off a nice series win over Oakland, but they blew the chance to sweep, as Oakland won it in the ninth.

Now lets look at the upcoming series against the Twins.

Game One: Friday June 12th, 1:20 PM CST.

Slowey (8-2) 4.21 ERA vs Wells (0-2) 1.86 ERA

Wells' ERA shines, but his record doesn't, thanks to the Cubs blowing leads and not getting Wells run support. This kid could easily have three to four wins by now.

Wells has really provided a spark plug for the rotation since being called up to the Majors. Besides Sean Marshall, every pitcher has seemed to pitch better since Wells was called up.

Slowey has a nice record, but his ERA is not where you think a eight-game winner should be at. I have not seen enough of him to know how he throws, but eight wins is pretty good at this point of the season.

The Cubs are going to have to get after Slowey early and give Wells a nice lead. Wells has proved he can pitch well, he just needs the run support.

The key to the game will be the Cubs pitching. I expect Wells to pitch solid again, but the bullpen will have to do their job for the Cubs to get the win.

The Twins offense scares me, and they can put up runs in a hurry. Cubs defense will have to be on par, along with pitching.

Game Two: Saturday June 13, 12:05 PM CST

Swarzak (1-2) 5.23 ERA vs Harden (4-2) 4.74 ERA

Rich Harden makes his first start since he went on the DL a few weeks ago. Harden has pitched pretty well this season, but at times he has also struggled.

Harden won't work a lot of innings in this ballgame, being it's his first start back from an injury, and we know Harden is fragile.

Again, this game will lay on the bullpens shoulders. We will see the bullpen around the fifth or sixth inning, so four solid innings will be needed for a Cubs win.

Swarzak had a no-decision his last start, before that one he got ruffed up by Cleveland and got the loss.

The Cubs need to get the offense going, and in Chicago against Swarzak will be the perfect time.

Game Three: Sunday June 14th, 1:20 PM CST

Baker (4-6) 5.59 ERA vs Lilly (7-4) 3.00 ERA

You could make a case that so far Ted Lilly has been the best pitcher for the Cubs all year. He has the most wins on the team, and one of the lowest ERAs.

Lilly will get the start in the final game of the series and hopefully he has his A game with him. In his last three starts, Lilly has got two wins and a no-decision and was throwing the ball real well.

He has also lowered his ERA by .77 points in his past four starts.

Lilly is the type of pitcher that can get at Minnesota's offense and give them fits all game. He's going to have to keep the ball down and make good placement pitches.

Minnesota will be looking to carve up Lilly with their hitting. They will have to be patient and wait to get to Lilly. If they can do that, I can see a big game from them.

Another game for the Cubs to get their offense potentially started. Baker doesn't have great stuff, so the Cubs will need to jump on him early and often.

I'm going to take the Cubs in this series with them winning two games. I think they will win Friday and Sunday's games. They will have a chance to sweep with a Saturday win, but I think the Twins will get to Harden.

The Bear Den: The Pressure Is On The Bears Defense

Zack Pearson — Sat, 06 Jun 2009 20:08:58 -0400

Do you remember back in the 2005 and 2006 seasons, when people were calling the Bears defense the best in the NFL?

Or when a lot of people were comparing those defenses to that of the 1985 Super Bowl champions?

Things have changed, my friends.

In the 2007 and 2008 seasons, the Bears didn't play up to their potential on defense.

They were blowing leads, blowing coverage, and missing tackles. Something was wrong.

Sure, you can credit Ron Rivera's departure for San Diego as a potential cause. Or was it just the fact that the defense was actually bad?

Well, whatever the reason, the defense had better step it up this year.

The pressure is all on them.

Forget the pressure that will be put on Jay Cutler to succeed. Forget the pressure for Matt Forte to duplicate his rookie season. Forget the pressure on the receiving corps.

Cutler could throw for 30 or more touchdowns, Forte could run for 1,000 yards, and the receivers could easily have big years, but none of that will matter if the defense is not playing to 2006 form.

That's why all the pressure is on the defense this season.

The Bears certainly cant have the defense blowing late leads, in games we should be winning. It will be up to them to buckle down and keep the leads intact.

Staying healthy is also key.

The last two years we have seen Nathan Vasher, Brian Urlacher, Tommie Harris, Mike Brown, Charles Tillman, Dusty Dvoracek, and Adewale Ogunleye all have injury problems.

If those guys can stay healthy and the defense is back in form, this team can have a scary defense.

On the flip side, if injuries are a problem again and the defense isn't up to form, this team can have a bad defense.

The key to this season weighs on the defense's shoulders. Giving up a lot of points and forcing the offense to play better than advertised might be tough.

The offense can only do so much.

If the offense is putting up big numbers and torching defenses but the defense itself is getting torched, that will be a problem.

I'm asking for Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs, Tillman, Harris, and Vasher all to play up to expectations. If they do that, I believe they will be a dominant defense.

So Cutler, Forte and the receivers can take a deep breath. Go out there and play up to your capabilities. Don't worry about it.

It's the defense that should feel the pressure for the Bears to have a successful season.

The Bear Den: Is It a Make or Break Season for Tommie Harris?

Zack Pearson — Sat, 30 May 2009 22:45:12 -0400

Ever since Tommie Harris' injury in 2006, which cost him to miss the playoffs and untimely the Super Bowl, the once feared defensive lineman just hasn't been the same.

In his rookie year of 2004, Tommie recorded 43 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and one forced fumble. He had a pretty good year in 2005 also, having 32 tackles, three sacks, and two forced fumbles. In 12 games in the 2006 season, he had 28 tackles and five sacks.

Tommie was a dominant force for the Bears. He was moving up the ladder and making a name for himself as one of the best defensive lineman in the NFL, until Tommie went down with a hamstring injury that cost him the rest of the season.

See, stats were not everything for Tommie. Even if they didn't show it, Tommie was a dominant lineman for the Bears. Causing havoc in opponents backfields for one of the NFL's best defense in 2005-06.

The next year Tommie returned, playing in all sixteen games. His numbers didn't match his previous production for the Bears. He was also bugged by a knee injury that seemed to slow him down just a step or two.

In 2008, Harris only played in 14 games and was bugged by an apparent knee injury. He finished with 37 tackles and five sacks. Those aren't bad, but Tommie didn't look like his old dominant self.

Is 2009, a make or break year for Tommie? What happens if that knee injury bugs him again, and he cant get pressure on the quarterback?

Only time will tell for Tommie, but time might be running out.

If Tommie has a bad year in 2009, I expect the Bears to try and trade him and maybe get youth or a draft pick.

Still, the Bears depth on the defensive line is good enough to pick up the slack for Harris. Ogunleye, Brown, Dvoracek, and Anderson all can fill in for Tommie.

If Harris is dominant and can get good pressure on the quarterback, the Bears might have another best in the NFL defense.

It all relies on Tommie.

Chicago Cubs: Can the Bench Players Keep the Cubs in Contention?

Zack Pearson — Sat, 30 May 2009 22:05:56 -0400

The Chicago Cubs had high expectations for the 2009 season. So far, those expectations have not gone to plan.

Plagued with injuries, the Cubs still find themselves only three games back of first place Milwaukee and St. Louis.

Aaron Miles, Ryan Freel, Carlos Zambrano, Rich Harden and the biggest one Aramis Ramirez have all spent time on the DL.

Alfonso Soriano, Milton Bradley, Derek Lee and Geovanny Soto have also battled through injuries, but no time on the DL was needed.

How can a team with so many injuries still be just three games back of the division lead?

Well you should ask Bobby Scales, Koyie Hill, Andreas Blanco, Jake Fox, Randy Wells, Micah Hoffpauir and Reed Johnson.

Those are the Cubs bench and role players.

Those players have filled in for the players going on the DL, and keeping the Cubs within striking distance of first place.

When Aramis Ramirez went down in April with a shoulder injury, Cub fans hearts sank.

Ramirez landed on the DL, and wasn't expected back for two-three months.

"There goes the season." "We are done." Even "curse... it strikes again" ran through some Cub fans minds, I'm sure.

Changes were made in the infield to accommodate the third base position. Scales, Fontenot, and Miles all played a little bit of third base.

With the others splitting time at second.

Bobby Scales has been huge so far. He gives the Cubs the option to play him at second, short, or third. Same goes with Andreas Blanco.

Hoffpauir has filled in nicely for Derek Lee at first base, and also spending some time in left field for Milton Bradley. He gives the Cubs a ultimate power threat, and a left handed bat that they need.

Recently called up Jake Fox has maybe given the team a recent spark plug that they need. A guy that was tearing the ball up in AAA, and now has a chance to prove he belongs in the majors.

Randy Wells has filled in with the pitching injuries. Wells was called up when Zambrano went on the DL and every start has been a quality start for Wells.

While the win-loss numbers for Wells haven't been what the Cubs want, he has not got the run support in his starts. In his four starts, the Cubs have scored only a total of nine runs.

Wells is 0-2, but his ERA is only 1.80 and he has 23 strikeouts. When Harden comes back, it will be interesting to see what the Cubs do with Wells.

Wells and Sean Marshall should be fighting for that fifth spot in the rotation.

But those are not the most important bench players. Not even close.

Reed Johnson has been huge for the Cubs so far this year, splitting time in the outfield with Soriano, Fukudome, and Bradley.

Johnson has come up huge in his at-bats this year, and really is the leader for this bench.

Johnson is batting .270 with three home runs and 12 RBI. Pretty good numbers for a bench player. With Reed playing so well, it gives the other bench players motivation that they can do the same.

Scales, Hoffpauir, Blanco, Hill, Johnson, Fox combined are batting .326 with 12 home runs and 43 RBI. Pretty good for your bench.

Can they keep this up long enough for the Cubs to stay in contention? If they can, getting Ramirez back is going to be a huge boost for this club.

If the Cubs can be within six games of first place when Ramirez returns, this team could be real dangerous.

A solid lineup with a real solid bench is key for a deep postseason run. And us Cubs haven't had one of those since 2003.

The Bear Den: Expect Changes in the Playbook for the Bears

Zack Pearson — Thu, 28 May 2009 18:02:06 -0400

Going into the 2009 NFL season, expect some minor changes in the playbook, Bears fans. With a new quarterback and a couple of changes on the coaching, the playbook is bound to be different.

Let's start off with the new quarter back, Jay Cutler. Cutler has a better arm than Orton had so look to see a lot more plays designed for going deep.

Hester is a good deep threat for Cutler, primarily because of his speed. Last year, we saw some plays that were designed for the deep ball, but Orton missed Hester in his stride.

I don't expect to see the whole playbook re-worked just for Cutler.

Cutler likes to look down field rather than check downs more often. I expect to see some more routes for tight ends Desmond Clark and Greg Olsen down the field.

The running game might see some changes also. Maybe a little bit more of play action to use for Cutler. The Bears have two good weapons on offense in Cutler and Forte.

They should mix it up with running going to play action that will lead to big plays down field.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Bears brought in Rod Marinelli, former coach of the Lions, to be the defensive line coach.

Marinelli should bring some new defensive schemes to Chicago. I expect for more stunts from the defensive line.

The Bear Den: How I Was Born into the Chicago Bears

Zack Pearson — Thu, 28 May 2009 17:21:24 -0400

In my family, football is more than a sport. In fact, it's a religion to us. The Chicago Bears are what we believe in.

I was born into being a Bears fan and I wouldn't trade it for any other team in the NFL. Not the Patriots, not the Cowboys, not the Steelers, and no way in hell for the Packers.

My Dad was lucky enough to be able to see the 1985 Super Bowl team and enjoy that great season they had. To this date that is the Bears' only Super Bowl win.

I grew up as a young kid running around my house in a Neal Anderson Halloween jersey thinking I was making defenders miss left and right.

I moved on to playing football in my front yard thinking I was Cade McNown (bad, yes I know) or even sometimes Curtis Conway. I pretended by myself that I was the Bears and would win every game, even four Super Bowls in a row.

That carried over to pretending I was the A-Train, Anthony Thomas, during my middle school recess football career.

During pick up games at the park in high school, I remember trying to be like Bernard Berrian or Thomas Jones. Then on the defensive side of the ball, punishing people like Brian Urlacher.

My dad is as big a Bears fan as I am. He's the one who taught me to hate the Packers and to love the Bears; to respect the game, and the players, for making the games happen.

Every Sunday my dad, uncle, and I all meet up in what we like to call "The Bear Den." It's a place in my dad's house where die hard Bears fans come to watch their beloved Bears battle on Sundays.

We haven't missed a game together in almost four years. We are there every Sunday decked out in jerseys eating hot wings and sipping our choice of beverage.

Not everyone can come to The Bear Den. You must earn your way in. A vow is taken that you must make every effort possible to come on Sundays. No excuses of doing lawn work, or going shopping. It's for true fans only.

Why does this all matter? Well because I love the Chicago Bears. That's why it matters.

I bleed orange and blue. I shiver to the cold winds coming off of Lake Michigan on a cold Sunday during winter.

I would like to thank my Dad for bringing me up to be a fan of the NFL's greatest franchise. Without the Bears, I don't know what I would do.

The Bear Den: 2009 Chicago Bears Season Preview (Part IV)

Zack Pearson — Wed, 27 May 2009 23:20:55 -0400

Week Fourteen: vs Green Bay, Dec. 13 2009. 12:00 CST

The Bears finish their season series with rivals Green Bay, this time at home.

The Bears beat the Packers at home last year in a thrilling overtime finish that kept their playoff hopes alive.

This game could have big implications on the NFC North and playoffs. Both teams could be fighting for the division lead or wild card spot.

If the Packers were to be fighting for the division lead, their defense will have to step up big. In the first game against the Bears last year, the Packers defense gave up only three points. In the second meeting, they blew a late lead.

The Bears will have to establish their run game early and get into an offensive groove. Scoring points early will be the key to a Bears win.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 16-13 Packers

Week Fifteen: at Baltimore, Dec. 20, 2009. 12:00 CST

Two young quarterbacks will battle each other in a December matchup in Baltimore. Joe Flacco led the Ravens to the playoffs last year in his rookie year, and hopes to do the same again. Jay Cutler also hopes to lead the Bears to the playoffs in his first year with Chicago.

Both teams could have clinched a playoff spot by now, but don't count out a tough, physical defensive game between two good defenses.

I expect both defenses to come out and play up to expectations, and the offense will have to win the game for either team.

I'm going to favor the Bears offense in this game, simply because they have more weapons.

Although I think the Bears are the better team, I can see Baltimore taking this one. Especially since it's in Baltimore.

Final Score Prediction: Ravens 15-10 Bears

Week Sixteen: vs Minnesota, Dec. 28 2009. 7:30 CST

This is the Bears' only Monday night game of the year, but what better time and game to have?

The Bears and Vikings square off in a huge divisional game that just might determine the division winner.

Both teams could be at the top of the NFC North, so this game pretty much means everything to these two teams.

The Bears won last year's meeting in Chicago, with Kyle Orton leading the charge.

I like the Bears in this one, and here's why; Chicago will have the home crowd behind them, in what could be the deciding game for the division.

I know Chicago fans, and they get pretty excited for games like this.

I expect the Bears defense to finally clamp down and stop Adrian Peterson, who has torched the Bears in all four of his games against them.

It's also important for the Bears offense to come out and maintain a steady game plan. With the tough Minnesota run defense, the pass game will have to win it for them.

Who knows though, both these teams could also be eliminated from playoff contention at this point.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 31-20 Vikings

Week Seventeen: at Detroit, Jan. 3 2010. 12:00 CST

In the final regular season week for the NFL, this could be a meaningless game for both teams.

The Bears could have clinched a playoff spot or division title, and maybe home field advantage.

On the other hand the Bears could also be fighting for the division title or wildcard berth. Anything can happen during the season.

As for Detroit, I expect them once again to be playing for pride. I think they will improve from last year, but not enough for a playoff spot.

We could also see the second string for the Bears to give the starters a rest.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 23-12 Lions (If Bears haven't clinched yet)

Lions 17-10 Bears (If Bears are resting starters)

Key Player—Devin Hester.

Hester could be the Bears' No. 1 wide receiver to start off the year. It will be important for him to come up with big plays during the final weeks of the season.

The Bear Den: 2009 Chicago Bears Season Preview (Part III)

Zack Pearson — Tue, 26 May 2009 23:04:37 -0400

In this four part preview of the 2009 Chicago Bears, I will preview weeks 10-13.

Week Ten: at San Fransisco, Nov. 12 2009. 7:20 CST

In this Thursday night NFL Network game the Bears travel to take on a 49ers team that improved over the off season, and might be a contender in the NFC West.

This is the third consecutive year the Bears will play a game on the NFL Network's Thursday Night Football.

In 2007 they lost to the Redskins at Washington, and last year they beat the Saints in a must win game at home.

This will also be the first time new 49ers head coach Mike Singletary will face his former team.

The 49ers improved over the offseason when they got lucky and had Michael Crabtree fall to them. They can thank the Oakland Raiders for that.

Crabtree is a game changer in my opinion, and if Gore can stay healthy the 49ers have a shot to win that division.

This could be a big game for the Bears also. This will be their second game in four days, with an earlier start time because of the western time zone.

The Bears have won two of the last three against San Fran. In 2001 they won on a OT touchdown by Mike Brown. In 2003, they were blown out bad at San Fransisco.

The 49ers weak secondary will be the key to this game. If Cutler can establish a rhythm early and get hot, it could be a long day for the 49ers defense.

On the other side, Chicago has to stop Frank Gore and the 'Niner run game. Otherwise it will be a long game for them.

I like the Bears in this one, because they are more talented on both sides on the ball.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 13, 49ers 9

Week Eleven: vs Philadelphia, Nov. 22 2009. 7:20 CST

The Eagles come into sweet home Chicago for the Bears second consecutive prime-time game.

The Eagles are my pick to win the Super Bowl, and why not? They have an explosive offense with McNabb, Westbrook, Jackson, and now Maclin.

They also added Pro-Bowl left tackle Jason Peters. Scary, huh?

The Eagles could even be the best team in the NFL next season, but who knows?

The Bears barely beat the Eagles last season who where without stud running back Brian Westbrook. But a key goal line stand saved the game in the fourth quarter for the Bears.

This should be a huge game for both teams, and what a better way to settle it than on NBC Sunday Night Football.

Both teams should be fighting for division titles and possibly home field advantage for the playoffs.

The Eagles are just too much for the Bears this season. I expect them to come into Soldier Field and quiet the crowd early. Never letting the Bears offense establish rhythm is key.

Final Score Prediction: Eagles 24, Bears 16

Week Twelve: at Vikings. Nov. 29, 2009. 12:00 CST

This is the first meeting between the division rivals for the 2009 season, and I expect both teams to be first and second in the division.

This should line up as a huge game for both teams and maybe even the division lead at stake.

Last year the teams split the series with both winning at home.

The Vikings return a fast offense with Peterson, Berrian, and the newest addition Percy Harvin.

Last year the Bears blew a golden chance to take a big lead in the division when they went ahead early in Minnesota. But a big rally by the Vikings sealed the deal for them.

This should be one of those hard fought NFC North battles, that will end in a tight finish.

I think Minnesota has the advantage with home field, but expect the Bears to be fired up.

The Vikings still have a question mark at quarterback. Will it be Tavaris Jackson, Sage Rosenfels, or Brett Favre?

All three quarter backs could make the game a different game, but we will have to wait and see.

I'm going to take Minnesota in this one, just for the fact they will have the home field crowd with them.

Cutler and the Bears make it interesting late, but the Vikings hold on.

Final Score Prediction: Vikings 27, Bears 23

Week Thirteen: vs St. Louis, Dec. 6, 2009. 12:00 CST

The Bears come back home after a division matchup against the Vikings, looking to get back on track.

The Rams had a terrible year last year and are in rebuilding mode.

What a perfect time for the Bears to have this game on the schedule after two tough games against the Eagles and Vikings.

This is one of those games that the Bears need to take advantage of on the schedule  —one of those so called "should win games." If your a good team, you need to win the games like this on the schedule.

I don't know how much St. Louis will improve from last season, but the Bears are ultimately the better team.

Cutler and the offense should once again have a field day against a weak Rams secondary. Forte should have a big game also.

This should be a nice bounce back game for the Bears.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 38, Rams 10

Key Player: Matt Forte. Forte needs to stay healthy and on track for the Bears to have a good season. All the wear and tear throughout the season could take its toll on Forte. Playing in big games late down the stretch, could make Forte better.

The Bear Den: 2009 Chicago Bears Season Preview (Part II)

Zack Pearson — Tue, 26 May 2009 01:51:51 -0400

This is the second article in a series of four articles that I am writing to preview the 2009 Chicago Bears season.

Training camp is right around the corner, and that means the NFL season is on the way. So enjoy my previews.

The Bears bye week is during week five, so I will skip ahead to the week six match up.

Week Six: at Atlanta, Oct. 18, 7:15 CST

The Bears travel to Atlanta to take on the Falcons for the second year in a row. This time it will be on NBC's Sunday Night Football.

Both teams on paper match up pretty evenly.

Last years game between the two teams was a excellent game, even though the Bears lost a heart breaker.

The Bears scored with eleven seconds left to go ahead, but a quick Matt Ryan pass and then a field goal won it for Atlanta.

Depending on how the first couple weeks of the season goes, this could be a huge match up for playoff seeds for both teams.

Atlanta is led by quarterback Matt Ryan who is looking to avoid the so-called "Sophmore Slump."

The Bears had trouble stopping Atlanta's run game last year with Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood leading the way.

The key to the game for the Bears is to play solid defense. Atlanta likes to pound the ball with Turner, and let Matt Ryan do his thing through the air.

If Chicago can play good defense for 60 minutes they should come out victorious.

I see this game being decided again in the final seconds with special teams. This time though, I think the Bears come out on top. This has the potential to be a really great game.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 23, Falcons 20.

Week Seven: at Cincinnati, Sunday Oct. 25, 12:00 CST

The Bears travel to Cincinnati to take on a Bengals team who hasn't made the playoffs since 2006.

This should be a good game for Chicago to get a out of division win, and truly see where their team is at in the season.

The last time these two teams met was way back in 2005 when the Bengals came into Soldier Field and whooped the Bears.

This is a much different Bengals team since the last time the Bears saw them. They lost wide receiver TJ Houshmandzadeh to free agency, Carson Palmer has not been the same since his injury, and Chad Ochocinco has had all kinds of problems the last few years.

The Bengals are still the Bengals from last season and on paper the Bears are a much more talented team.

The Bears also get to face their former teammate Cedric Benson for the first time since they released him in the Summer of 2008.

I predict the Bears will come out and get a big lead on a poor Bengals defense. Cutler should be able to take advantage of the week defense and play a solid game.

The Bengals offense doesnt look like it can match up with the Bears defense, so advantage Bears in that one.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 30, Bengals 13

Week Eight: vs Cleveland, Nov. 1, 12:00 CST

The Bears play their second straight AFC North opponent when the Cleveland Browns come to town on the first day of November.

These two teams met in 2005 with Cleveland winning a real close game at home. This time it's in Chicago. Where the last time these teams met here something special happend.

You may remember a chilly October afternoon in 2001 when the Browns came into town to take on the Bears.

The Browns built a size able lead before the Bears made their comeback, and led to Mike Browns game winning interception return for a touchdown in over time.

I don't see the Browns improving much off of last years bad season. They still don't know who their quarterback is right now, and quite frankly we might not know who we are going to see in week eight.

Brady Quinn? or Derek Anderson?

I see Chicago being way too much for the Browns to handle especially in Chicago.

The Bears should be right a top the NFC North around this time, and the fans will be excited in Chicago.

Chicago's defense also has the players to shut down Cleveland's average offense.

This wont be a blowout and the Browns could make it close at the end, but I like Chicago.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 17, Browns 13

Week Nine: vs Arizona, Nov. 8, 12:00 CST

The defending NFC Champion Arizona Cardinals come into Chicago in what could be a huge game in determining playoff seed's in the NFC.

With all the trade speculation involving Anquan Boldin, this might not be the same Cardinals team that won the NFC a year ago.

This will be a good match up between two teams that originated in Chicago.

The Keys for the Bears will be to stop the Cardinals passing game. Pressure on Kurt Warner is a must. We cant let him have time to fire to his targets.

Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald are two good receivers that can change the game at any time. If the Bears defense fails to play well, it could be a long day for Chicago.

The Bears' offense gives them a shot to win the game, but it all relies on the defensive play, and especially the corner backs.

Final Score Prediction: Cardinals 17, Bears 13

Key Player: Tommie Harris. It's important for Tommie to get off to a good start, but better yet be healthy for the whole season. The midway point is where we will see if Tommie can stay healthy. If he is able to stay healthy, the Bears can have one of the best defensive lines in football.

The Bear Den: 2009 Chicago Bears Season Preview (Part I)

Zack Pearson — Sat, 23 May 2009 23:18:09 -0400

As the Bears kicked off their OTA's this past week and are preparing for training camp at the end of July, I figure this is a good time to start my 2009 Chicago Bears season preview.

In this four part article I will break down the Bears opponents, players to watch, and predictions.

Week One: at Green Bay, Sept. 13 2009. 7:05 CST

The Bears open the 2009 campaign for the second straight year on the road. Last season it was at Indianapolis, and this season it will be against hated rival's the Green Bay Packers.

I don't need to explain the rivalry to you between these teams, because I'm sure you know about it. Instead I'll leave you with a nice fact, since the NFC North formed in 2002, the Bears or the Packers have won the division every year except for last year when the Vikings won it.

This game will be huge for both teams to start off the year.

Both teams would love to open the season with a win, especially against a division rival.

With the arrival of Jay Cutler to Chicago, this game now takes a little more excitement on the national stage. Two young quarter backs in Aaron Rodgers and Cutler will be duking it out for years to come.

The key for the Bears is to use their run game to their advantage and have the defense play dominant. Last year they went into Green Bay and got destroyed by the Pack, before pulling out a game in over time Week 16 in Chicago.

You can bet your bottom dollar that the Bears remember last years trip to Green Bay and will be out for revenge.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 17, Packers 16

Week Two: vs Pittsburgh, Sept. 20 2009. 3:15 CST

The defending Super Bowl champions come into town to take on the Bears. These two teams last met way back in 2005 with Pittsburgh getting the win and eventually becoming Super Bowl XL champions.

Pittsburgh is set for a repeat by nearly bringing back their entire Super Bowl team from last year.

If the Bears are to pull off an early season upset, they will have to have their defense clicking on all cylinders. The defense will have to shut down the Steelers potent offense and rush Big Ben into throws.

If the Bears can get early pressure on Big Ben and rattle him, along with the offense scoring early and getting a good lead the Bears can win this game.

I just don't see that happening.

Final Score Prediction: Steelers 24, Bears 16

Week Three: at Seattle, Sept. 27 2009. 3:15 CST

The Bears play in their third straight afternoon/night game of the season when they make the friendly visit to Seattle.

Last time Chicago was in Seattle they suffered a loss that killed any hope of the playoffs in 2007.

Seattle is a team that seems to be rebuilding and wont be a contender for a couple years. The Bears get their first look at stud linebacker Aaron Curry, who in my mind is going to be one of the elite linebackers in the NFL within a few years.

The Bears will just be to much for the Seahawks.

I see Cutler and Forte having big games against this Seattle defense, and the Bears defense putting out a dominant performance.

Home field for Seattle could be critical. If they can jump out to a early 10 or 14 point lead and get the crowd into the game, Chicago might be in trouble.

I just don't see that happening.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 27, Seattle 10

Week Four: vs Detroit, Oct. 4 2009, 12:00 CST

In another battle between division rivals, the Bears host the Detroit Lions in a Week-Four showdown.

A interesting question will be if we will see the pro debut of Matt Stafford, who the Lions took first overall in this years draft.

It might be time for the Lions to give Stafford the reps, and expect a Bears defense to be hungry with a rookie quarterback at the helm.

The way I see this game is in two ways. I can see this being a trap game for the Bears who start off the season by winning two or more games.

Or I can see this game being dominated by the Bears as they did against the Lions last year.

For the second straight game I predict the Bears defense to show up and be dominant. The Lions really only have one weapon on offense that scares me in Calvin Johnson. But I'm confident the Bears will take care of business.

Final Score Prediction: Bears 34, Lions 10.

Player to watch for: Jay Cutler. The quarterback who was brought into Chicago from Denver in an offseason trade will need to step up. The Bears offense will feed off Cutler and his playmaking ability.

I see the Bears finishing the first quarter of the 2009 NFL season by going 3-1 and leading the NFC North. Now there is still a lot of football to be played, and anything can happen from now until September.

The Bear Den: The Five Players That Will Make or Break the Chicago Bears' Season

Zack Pearson — Fri, 22 May 2009 22:21:40 -0400

The Bears were a playoff team in 2005. They were a Super Bowl team in 2006, that looked like it was going to be on top of the NFC for another four or five years.

They were mediocre at best in 2007. In 2008 they were a improving team that was a superstar away from winning the NFC North and finished one game out of a playoff spot.

Well now the Bears have that superstar and in 2009 the team looks to make the playoffs for the first time in two seasons.

These are the players that will make or break the 2009 season for the Bears. Will it be playoffs? Super Bowl? or just an average team at best?

5. Jay Cutler, QB

You might be asking why Cutler is only No. 5 on this list. Well to answer that, yes Cutler is going to have pressure on him right from the get go. Bears fans expect him to come out and play like he has in Denver.

I expect Cutler to play as he has played in previous seasons and be the quarterback that Bears fans hope he is.

The reason he is No. 5 is because Cutler will play up to expectations and help this team win. Even if he is playing as a average player I think his average is just as good as other quarterbacks good.

Cutler's got the leadership skills that this team needs.

He also makes everyone around him better. This will include Forte, Olsen and Hester.

4. Devin Hester, WR/KR

Hester struggled in the return game last season due to the fact he spent a lot of time on the offense. With Marty Booker and Brandon Lloyd becoming free agents after last season, Hester's the leading receiver on the roster from last year.

He will most likely be the No. 1 receiver for the Bears and a instant deep threat for Cutler. If Cutler can find him and hit Hester in stride down the field, the Bears offense might be scary.

The thing to watch for on Hester is how many reps he will get at receiver this year. Last year he took a lot of snaps on the offensive side of the ball, and his return game was horrible.

Hester will need to stay injury free and produce on the offensive side of the ball for the Bears to win the North.

Plus the third season is where most receivers tend to breakout.

3. Kevin Payne, S

With the departure of Mike Brown in the offseason, Kevin Payne now becomes the leader of the safety's. Payne is a hard hitting safety, yet some times last season he over ran the ball and that led to big plays for the opponent.

Payne needs to work on his coverage for him to be an elite safety in the league.

Payne is joined by Craig Steltz and new comer to the safety position Corey Graham. Payne will more than likely be the play maker safety from that group.

2. Matt Forte, RB

Forte is a workhorse and he showed it last year. He was in on about 90 percent of the teams offensive plays last season.

He finished in the top 10 in rushing, and also contributed in the air attack led by Kyle Orton. If Forte can put up the numbers he had last year, the Bears offense becomes that much better.

The knock on Forte that might lead to a sophomore slump will be injury's.

We seen Forte start to wear down towards the end of last season. Mainly because the Bears played him so much. If Kevin Jones can contribute to the offense this season, that will give Forte a rest and keep him fresh throughout the season.

1. Brian Urlacher, MLB

Remember when Urlacher was one of the most dominant linebackers in all of football a couple years ago? Well now many believe Lance Briggs is a better linebacker at the moment.

Urlacher has struggled since 2006, dealing with neck and back issues. He just hasn't been himself.

This year could be the last chance for a aging Urlacher to prove he still is one of the best linebackers the game.

When Urlacher is healthy and playing to his potential it seems like the whole defense feeds off his play. He is for sure the leader and captain of the defense and needs to prove that again in 2009.

If Urlacher is healthy then this could be one of the best defenses in the league again.

Honorable Mention

Nathan Vasher, CB

Needs to stay healthy.

Charles Tillman, CB

Hopefully with Vasher back, Peanut will take the load of his shoulder.

Greg Olsen, TE

It's time to emerge as a standout TE, Greg.

The Bear Den: 10 Burning Questions I Would Ask Lance Briggs

Zack Pearson — Wed, 20 May 2009 21:56:05 -0400

Right before our eyes Lance Briggs has gone from a third-round pick in 2003, to one of the NFL's elite linebackers.

Lance has grown to become one of my favorite players, and in my opinion, turned into one of top 15 linebackers in NFL history with Brian Urlacher.

Being a linebacker in Chicago comes with high standards, you're expected to be great. You have to follow in the footsteps of some of the greatest to play the game – Mike Singletary and Dick Butkus, to name a couple.

Briggs and Urlacher have certaintly filled the shoes that those two men have left.

1). So Lance, coming out of Arizona and being drafted by the Bears. You knew that you were going to play alongside one of the NFL's best in Urlacher, how did it feel to know that?

2). You certainly have made yourself a elite linebacker, but what are your individual goals for the upcoming 2009 season?

3). Last year was by far your best year in the NFL. You finished with 110 tackles, three interceptions and a force fumble... What are your stat goals for this year?

4). I know that the 2006 season and Super Bowl left a bitter taste in the teams mouth, do you and the Bears feel like you guys have something to prove?

5). How can Jay Cutler improve the team as a whole?

6). What's your thoughts on Brett Favre possibly signing with the Vikings?

7). Since the Vikings are the defending NFC North Champions, do you still feel like you guys are the best team in this division?

8). You guys came so close to making the playoffs last year, was there one game in your mind you can have back and possibly change?

9). Do you think this defense can be as dominant as the 1985 and 2006 defenses?

10). And finally Lance – a little off topic here –What would you rate your overall in Madden 2010?

See an average guy like me doesnt always get to meet there favorite players, yet interview them.

If I had the chance to interview Lance Briggs, these would be the questions I would ask him.

I'm sure Lance is a nice enough guy to answer these.

The Bear Den: Forte a Fantasy Football Treasure

Zack Pearson — Tue, 19 May 2009 22:13:23 -0400

I recently saw the NFL fantasy football power rankings that NFL.com put out. I scrolled through the top ten, looking at the players that will most likely be taken in the first round of most drafts.

I stumbled across the top two players: Adrian Peterson and Matt Forte. I thought to myself for a second and said, "You know what? I'm going to take Forte if I have the first pick in my league." I advise you to do the same.

Yes Adrian Peterson (Vikings), is the best running back in the NFL, but Matt Forte is the best overall fantasy player.

Here is why.

Peterson put up 1,760 rushing yards compared to Forte's 1,238. Peterson had 10 touchdowns with Forte getting eight.

Advantage Peterson in those categories.

Forte had 63 receptions for 477 yards and four touchdowns. Peterson had only 21 receptions for 125 yards and 0 touchdowns.

Advantage Forte in those categories. Now lets break down another category that decides this matchup.

Matt Forte had only one fumble in 316 attempts. Adrian Peterson had nine fumbles in 363 attempts.

Fumbles are an important stat in fantasy football because it gives you minus points.

Forte seems to be a more versatile back than Peterson. Last year, when Orton was in trouble, he dumped it off to Forte for a nice pickup almost every time.

With the Bears adding Jay Cutler as their quarterback, Forte now becomes another target for the strong armed QB.

With the Bears lacking a true No. 1 receiver, look for Forte to be a option on a lot of plays. The Bears have shown that they will use the running back as much as possible in their offense.

I expect Forte to blow up with a monster year, and fantasy owners will drool over the stats he will get you.

So for the people who want to pick AP first, just think about it for a second. Look at the stats and realize that Forte will probably be a safer option.

Peterson will probably split some time with Chester Taylor, who will more than likely come in during some third down plays.

Another thing to look at is Forte will most likely be in for at least 95 percent of Chicago's offensive plays this year. In 2008 he was in on almost every third down play they ran.

Forte should be your pick, especially if your looking for a keeper league running back that you want for the future of your team.

Believe It Or Not,The 2006 Chicago Bears Are My Favorite Team

Zack Pearson — Sat, 16 May 2009 00:11:36 -0400

Call me crazy. Call me stupid. Call me what ever you want, but it wont change my mind on my favorite all time Chicago Bears team. Sure it's easy to say the 1985 Super Bowl team was the Bears best team ever, and I completely agree. But when it comes to my all time favorite Bears team, I'm going with the 2006 runners up.

See I've been a Bears fan all my life, in fact I actually think I bleed orange and dark blue. The Chicago Bears are a religion to my dad, and that's where I picked it up from.

Since I can remember, I have been a Bears fan watching the games with my pops on a cozy Sunday afternoon. I stuck with the good and the bad, and watched the bad eat away at my dad. Must have sucked for him.

The 2006 Bears were similar to the 1985 Bears in a couple ways.

Both were coming off of playoff disappointment the year before, and both had one of the NFL's top defenses. In another similarity you could argue that they both had a dynamic explosive player in Walter Payton (RIP) and Devin Hester.

After the heartbreaking loss to Steve Smith and his Panthers the year before. My dad, my uncle and myself sat there and thought one thing: Revenge. We wanted it bad for next year, we wanted it as fans more than ever. We wanted to see our Chicago Bears get revenge, not only on the Panthers, but the NFL who laughed at us after losing that game.

Fortunately enough for me, I got to go to the opening game of the 2006 season at Lambeau Field against the HATED Green Bay Packers.

We cruised to a 26-0 win over the Packers and the excitement just began.

We we introduced to the NFL's MVP of the first five weeks of the season, but that didn't last long. As much fun as it was watching Sexy Rexy torch the Packers, Lions, Vikings, Seahawks and Bills defense. As soon as it happened, it went away just as fast.

Grossman started playing horrible and had all of Chicago worried. No worries here though. I knew we had a good enough defense to take us the distance. I knew we had the talent to win us the division. It all just fell in place.

The best game from that season came on a special Monday night in October. The 16th of October to be exact.

The mighty undefeated Chicago Bears go into Arizona for the Cardinals brand new stadium opener. Many belvieved that the Bears would easily crush the Cardinals and it would be a blow out. They were wrong. The Cardinals were the team that actually won and crushed the Bears for the first three quarters.

In fact the Bears were down 23-10 going into the fourth quarter, and to top it all off, they hadn't even scored a single offensive point.

The Cardinals were man handling the Bears. Until the fourth quarter.

In what was one fo the greatest comebacks in NFL history the Bears rallied and scored 14 fourth quarter points. Actually there defense scored more points than their offense that game.

As Neil Racker's last second kick sailed way right, I knew their was something special about this team.

The Bears went on to a 13-3 record, only losing to the Patriots, Dolphins and a New Years Eve game to the Packers.

The 13-3 record earned the Bears a first round bye and home field advantage.

The Bears used that advantage to win a great game against Seattle in the Divisional Playoff game, and also to spank Reggie Bush and his New Orleans Saints.

This is why this is my all time favorite Bears team. They were scrappy, hard nose, get the job done type of team. That's what I believe football is about. Dont worry about the money, play for the love of the game.

It's a real shame that this team didnt win the Super Bowl, but hats off to the Colts because they deserved it.

Just think if this team wasn't formed. We wouldn't have Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton arguments, we wouldn't have highlights from one of the best return men ever, and more importantly we wouldn't have the football we love in Chicago.

I remember alot from this team, Tank Johnson's troubles or even the injury to Tommie Harris. The Thomas Jones and Cedric BUST-son saga, Devin Hester and the emergance of Bernard Berrian.

The reason why I pick this team as my favorite was because they were so fun to watch. It was almost suspenseful watching Devin Hester as you waited for him to break a long return, or if the defense was going to pitch a shutout that day.

So I would like to thank you 2006 Chicago Bears, and yes even you Rex Grossman for providing my Dad and myself ever lasting memories.

The Bear Den: Chicago's Persistent Lack of a No. 1 Receiver

Zack Pearson — Fri, 15 May 2009 22:47:53 -0400

Going into the 2008 NFL season and just two years removed from a trip to the Super Bowl, the Chicago Bears had a few question marks on their roster. Some of them still remain heading into the 2009 Training Camp.

The Bears receiving corps in that Super Bowl run was led by Muhsin Muhammad and Bernard Berrian. Those were two proven receivers who helped the Bears greatly. Both of them left the team in 2008 Free Agency, as expected.

Without those two receivers, the Bears struggled quite often last year in the passing game. In fact, running back Matt Forte and tight end Greg Olsen were two of the leading receivers on the team. That's something that doesn't equal a whole lot of success in the NFL.

The team let go of veterans Marty Booker and Brandon Lloyd, who were each signed last offseason to one-year deals. Their stays in Chicago were short-lived. In fact, the Bears only return two starting receivers that had more that five catches all of last year in Devin Hester and Rashied Davis.

The Bears needed to address their problems at the receiver position this offseason, and to my dismay did not do a good job of it. They passed on T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Marvin Harrison, Plaxico Burris, and Torry Holt in free agency. They did offer the Cardinals a deal for Anquan Boldin, but after the marvelous Cutler trade, they had little to offer.

The Bears did draft three receivers in the draft. Juaquin Iglesias should be a good slot target for Cutler, and I really expect rookies Johnny Knox, who has blazing speed, and Derek Kinder to make the team because the Bears are slim on wideouts. Knox can accompany Hester on the speed side of the ball, while Iglesias and Davis are more of slot receivers.

There are still more question marks about this position. Who will step up and be the No. 1? Can Hester do it? Hopefully the plan at Halas Hall is to bring in a veteran or big-name wideout to give Cutler a better option.

Realistically, the Bears are a No. 1 wide receiver from being a legitimate Super Bowl contender, but, until they do that, this team will barely compete for the division.

Bobby Scales: A True Feel Good Story

Zack Pearson — Wed, 06 May 2009 23:30:30 -0400

Up until last week when the Chicago Tribune reported it, I never really heard of Bobby Scales. A 31 year old career minor league player, who finally got his first call up to the Major Leagues.

Scales was called up Monday night after the Cubs placed pitching ace Carlos Zambrano on the DL. He made his major league debut against the Giants that very next day.

Now think back to the more memorable Chicago Cubs debuts. With the exception of Kosuke Fukudome's debut last year, none of them have been that great.

What makes this story such a feel good story is the way Scales stayed with his dream. He never gave up, he never put himself down, and most importantly, he always tried his best.

This is a story for the underdogs to root for, a story for the fans to embrace. Sadly with all this talk about Alex Rodriguez and his alleged steroid use, this feel good story won't be as feel good as it should be.

Everyone is paying attention to the A-Rod news rather than embracing a story that the Northsiders love. That's the great thing about Chicago baseball, the fans love the game and the stories it brings.

Scales was inserted into the starting lineup on Tuesday and positioned at second base in a game where some Cubs starters got a day off. Scales got right into the game action as the first batter of the game; Fred Lewis hit a grounder and Scales fielded it cleanly to record the out.

He also collected his first Major League hit in the fifth and came around to score his first run on a Sean Marshall single. The day was a day to remember and cherish for Scales. He got the ball from his first Major League hit as a fan tossed it to the first base coach.

The reality for Scales is that his call up may be short lived. The Cubs are expected to call up Randy Wells to make the start against the Brewers Friday, and Scales seems to be the odd man out.

I really hope Scales gets another call up this season and people can respect his story. I ask baseball fans all over the country to root for the underdog, and in this case the underdog is Scales.

2008-09 Chicago Bulls: I Love Basketball Again

Zack Pearson — Tue, 05 May 2009 23:51:05 -0400

I was fortunate enough to grow up during the "Jordan Years" and to have parents that loved the Chicago Bulls. They let me watch every game with them. From the 1991 NBA Finals, where I could barely walk, to the infamous "Last Shot." They loved the Bulls and Jordan, and so did I.

As a kid I owned two Jordan jerseys, and even pretended I was MJ on my driveway court.

Things changed though. Jordan retired and my parents were so mad at Jerry Reisndorf for breaking up the dynasty that they forgot about the game they loved.

I still watched a little bit of basketball though, but by the 2002-03 season I only caught about 10 Bulls games a year. It just wasn't the same, but I still loved my hometown team.

I really got a bit excited again about the Bulls in the 2004-05 season.

A young scrappy team led by Kirk Hinrich and Ben Gordon. A team that came out of no where to reach the playoffs and take a two game lead in the best of seven series. Then came disappointment.

The Wizards won the next four games, giving the "Baby Bulls" a growing experience. The next year the team won 41 games and was headed for a first-round matchup against the eventual NBA champions, the Miami Heat.

The Bulls played tough and won two games in the best of seven. It looked promising for a young team that had a great core of young players in Hinrich, Gordon, Luol Deng, and Tyson Chandler.

Following the 2005-06 season, I really was excited for next year. It was a great '06-'07 season, the Bulls were a team that looked like they could contend for many years to come. They swept the defending champs Miami Heat in the first round. A second-round matchup versus the rival Detroit Pistons loomed, and so did the chance to make their name known in the NBA.

The Pistons went on to win the series 4-2, the Bulls blew two leads late in games. When the Bulls lost that game six in Chicago, I was heart broken. I had the worst feeling inside of me that night, and so did the two buddy's I was watching the game with. It flat out sucked.

That feeling was the same feeling I had throughout the 2007-08 season. A year where they fired Scott Skiles, and went 33-49. But something changed on the night of the NBA Draft Lottery night. The Bull's somehow got their lottery ball picked as the No. 1 pick for the draft. After that happened I was suddenly happy, I felt a rush like something big was going to happen, and it did.

The Bulls selected Derrick Rose with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 NBA draft.

Many people argued that Michael Beasley was the better fit for the Bulls, but my theory is always take the best available player, and it paid off for the Bulls. Rose won the Rookie of the Year award this past season, took the Bull's to the playoffs, and dazzled us with blocks, dunks, and crossovers that made us say "Did you see that?!?!"

These 2008-09 Chicago Bulls have got me real excited about basketball again. A team that was the 12 seed in January in the East. A team that made a great trade to land Brad Miller and John Salmons. A team that got rid of a cancer named Larry Hughes. A team that left me with memories that I'll never forget. And guess what? This team finished only 41-41.

There's something about this team that has Chicago and myself excited about basketball again. Derrick Rose the hometown kid who is going to be an elite player in the future, Kirk Hinrich who seems to always give it his all, and a Joakim Noah who developed to a role playing big man right before our eyes.

So this is how I want to thank the Chicago Bulls for getting me excited again. I enjoyed all your highlights this year including Rose making Andre Miller look bad, the comeback against Houston, Tyrus Thomas' amazing dunks and blocks (ask Jermaine O'Neal), and taking the hated Celtics to seven games in the first round. Thank You.

2009-2010 season can't come fast enough.