Bears vs. Saints: Can Mike Martz Adapt and Save the Chicago Bears Season?

After an impressive victory against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 1, the Bears suffered an embarrassing road loss to the New Orleans Saints, 30-13.

While the defense gave up 30 points, the true culprit remains the Bears' offense.  The offensive line allowed six sacks, the running game was non-existant and the wide receivers failed to make plays.

Critics will point out the team’s lack of balance.  The Bears passed 52 times, while running just 11. 

Believing that sticking to the run would have affected the outcome of the game dismisses a bigger problem that stems back to last year.

Offensive coordinator Mike Martz seemingly did nothing to counteract the blitz packages New Orleans used to keep Cutler under pressure and on his back.

Instead of using quick slants and three step drops, the Bears continued to use long, developing plays, leaving Cutler exposed behind collapsing pockets. 

This happened to the Bears early last season against the Dallas Cowboys.  The team countered a ferocious blitzing attack with quick passes and hit some big plays.  The Cowboys backed off and the Bears were able to run a more consistent offense.

Against the New York Giants in 2010, it seemed the Bears refused to counteract the blitzes and Cutler suffered a concussion and missed the following week’s game.

Even after finding a formula that worked, Martz returned to his old ways.

We all know Martz orchestrated the greatest show on turf with the St. Louis Rams.  Many consider him an offensive genius. 

With Marshall Faulk, Torry Holt and Kurt Warner, any coach would seem a brilliant football strategist. 

The fact remains the Bears do not have the same level of talent and they need to game plan for the talent they have.

The offensive line cannot sustain pockets for seven-step drops.  The receivers have to come out of their breaks with better speed and most importantly, catch the ball.    

Why does Martz refuse to adapt?  Is it ego?  Is it just plain stubbornness?

Whatever the reason, he needs to adapt.  Its still early in the season.  If Martz waits too long, he may not have a quarterback.