Chicago Bears Breaking News: Jay Cutler Inactive Against Carolina Panthers

Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler will be inactive against the Carolina Panthers this Sunday.  After he suffered what has been termed a mild concussion, the Bears and an independent doctor have decided Cutler should not play this coming weekend.

Cutler was sacked nine times against the Giants on Sunday night, and left at halftime with a mild concussion.  He did not return to the game.  Backup quarterback Todd Collins started the second half, but left with a neck stinger following a vicious hit.  He was replaced by third-string quarterback Caleb Hanie.

The Bears have said Collins will get the start against the Panthers this Sunday, and he has suffered no adverse effects from the stinger.  Collins and Hanie are the only active Bears' quarterbacks at the moment.

At this time, the Bears have no plans to sign a third-string quarterback. 

Game Impact

Obviously this changes many things for the Bears' offense against Carolina.  Look for Chicago to try and jump-start their stagnant running game, which has done virtually nothing all season long.  If they can't get the run game going to take some pressure off Collins, it could be a long day for the long-time veteran quarterback.

Collins is adept at passing the ball, so the Bears can continue to use their passing game to a limited extent.  Look for many short passes in what should be a much more controlled passing game this Sunday. 

Does this effect the Bears' chances to win this game?  As long as the offensive line can provide some protection to Collins and he can complete passes down the field, the Bears should still be able to win.