Bears-Vikings: Bears Win a Shootout? It's True

Division games are always tough, but this one had implications that my be felt in January.

This game had the makings of a tough “black-and-blue” division slug fest. “Black-and-blue” division games usually mean a low-scoring affair, with both defenses being stingy.

Breaking the mold seems to be what this young NFL season is about, and this game no doubt broke the mold, as it was a high-scoring affair.

The Vikings certainly look different with Gus Frerotte under center. A wily veteran, Frerotte was patient in exploiting the seams of the Bears' secondary. The Bears' defense was able to force several third downs, but, much like they have all season, they gave up big pass plays.

To be fair, the Bears did have four picks of Frerotte, with two of them coming in the second half to halt Vikings drives. The upcoming bye week will help the ailing Charles Tillman and Nathan Vasher hopefully return to Pro Bowl form.

On the other side of the ball there were four Bears that had at least three receptions. Greg Olsen had six for 74 yards and a touchdown. Marty Booker made up for the two drops he had by showing he’s still got some zip in his step. Booker and Orton seem to be gaining a comfort level with each other. 

A scary moment occurred when Des Clark fumbled a touchdown after a long catch and run. Luckily, Rashied Davis was in the vicinity and pounced on it.

The Bears must continue to use their two-tight-end set to create mismatches. Unfortunately, it seems like every time Orton gets comfortable with a wide receiver, they get hurt (Lloyd now Hester).

Matt Forte had a long day running the ball, but he didn’t give up performing when he was called upon, especially in the second half. He still finished the game with a touchdown and 70 all-purpose yards.

It was nice to see Garrett Wolfe get a touchdown. The NIU standout has often voiced his displeasure with covering kicks but has been a professional both seasons with the Bears and put in the position to make a play in an important game.

The Good: Passing game. Kyle Orton spread the ball around and got a couple of scores through the air. 

The Bad: Pass defense. The Bears' pass defense runs a soft Cover-Two, which has been exploited week after week. I know there were two rookie cornerbacks playing for the Bears, but the secondary needs to tighten up to complement the Bears' run defense, who have only allowed one 100-yard rusher this season.

The Ugly: Devin Hester’s injured quad. All Bears fans hold their collective breath until the extent of the injury is announced.

The Difference: Special Teams. Whether it was sloppy play by the Vikings or pressure put on them by the Bears. Dave Toub’s unit took advantage of several miscues that resulted in points. And once again the Vikings kicked away from Hester—while he was in the game—which gave the Bears good field position.

Five Questions

What will it take for Lovie Smith to call out the pass defense?

Nothing against Forte, but shouldn’t the Bears have used Kevin Jones a little more against the Vikings?

Will Greg Olsen rib Des Clark for fumbling the touchdown?

Is Tommie Harris turning his slow start around?

Will Kevin Payne compete for Mike Brown's job in the near future?