Bears Blitz Regular Season Special Week 1 Edition

Posted by Russ Loede on September 4th, 2008 filed in BEARS Blitz, Bear Insight, Features, Inside The Bears, Main, News
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Listen to Columnist Eric Cook and Site Editor Russ Loede preview Week 1’s showdown verses the Indianapolis Colts.  The dynamic duo dish out instant analysis, key players, and predict the final outcome.  The two hosts also talk about Tommie Harris’ importance/injury update, a revamped offensive line, and provide insight on the defense’s chances stopping the potent Peyton Manning-led attack.  Enjoy the Regular Season Special of Bears Blitz as you prepare for Sunday Nite’s match-up against Tony Dungy’s squad.  If you have any comments or predictions you would like to share, feel free to let you opinion be known.  Follow the coverage leading up to the game this weekend and get ready for September 7th with Bears Gab!

“Real Deal” Looks Good, Feels Great - He’s Ready

Posted by Russ Loede on September 4th, 2008 filed in Injury Report, Main, News
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Tommie Harris will never be at 100% percent.

“I practiced today and I feel great. I wouldn’t have practiced if I was hurting,” said Harris, who acknowledged that he’s experiencing typical soreness. “I play in the NFL. I don’t think I’ll ever be 100 percent.”

He’s in a good mood - just watch Tommie Harris on the field.

”They’re just being extra cautious,” Harris said. ”I want to be where my team needs to be, which is on the field during the season. Watch me out there. Let’s see what will happen.”

No Limits for Tommie Harris.

”He shouldn’t be [limited Sunday],” Smith said. ”He’s limited right now in practice because we’re kind of doing it, but Tommie should be fine.”

Practice? Tommie Harris is sharp, ready for Indy.

”He doesn’t need any practice,” Bears linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer said. ”I know he’ll be as sharp as he otherwise would be if he’d been out there for every preseason game. He’s a pro. It’s probably given him extra time to watch tape. He’ll be as ready as ever.”

Updated status on rest of Bears:

Both Tommie Harris (knee) and pass rush specialist Mark Anderson (thumb) fully participated in practice Thursday along with TE Desmond Clark (knee), guard Terrence Metcalf (knee), and DT Dusty Dvoracek (calf). Starting free safety Mike Brown was left off of the injury report.

Thoughts: Expect to see Kevin Payne starting next to Mike Brown at strong safety. I sure hope Josh Beekman gets the nod over Metcalf. It would be nice to see Anderson have a year like he did as a rookie, rather than a repeat performance of ‘07 - and why not? He is going to be back to his former role, mainly as a third down pass rush specialist, who creates havoc and generates penetration. The defensive line has to pressure Manning if they want to get off the field on 3rd downs - simple formula for success. Desmond Clark should sit a game or two like Olsen did last season - Kellen Davis is ready to play and I would like to see more single back, 4 WR sets in the offensive game plan this Sunday. Spreading out the formation will not allow the Colts to consistently put in the eight box and jam the line of scrimmage. It will force ‘em to play back a little more and blitz less. If Mike Brown and Tommie Harris play the whole game - Indy should not reach the end zone more than three times or score more than 24 points.

Tommie Harris’ Availability Doubted

Posted by Russ Loede on September 3rd, 2008 filed in Bear Insight, Injury Report, Inside The Bears, Main, News
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While the team is straightening out its offensive line problems there may be more of a concern on the defensive side of the line, as the status of All-Pro standout Tommie Harris remains a bit of a mystery for Week 1 at Indianapolis.

Defensive struggles now a Big Deal without the “Real Deal”: In order for the Bears defense to return to top form, Harris has to be on the field. Considering the fact he is not been close to 100 % and hasn’t been since Week 12 of the 2006 regular season (following week - lost for season vs. Minnesota), just having him play through the injury is good enough for a defense that has looked shaky at best. Harris played in all 16 games in ‘07 despite going through numerous nagging injuries, as he registered eight sacks, 35 tackles, forcing two fumbles - so I expect him to suit up Sunday night.

Legitimacy of Knee Reports: The Chicago Sun-Times columnist Brad Biggs reported earlier this afternoon that the former Sooner was in full equipment while the team practiced special teams and stretched. Another source says Harris has been limited since August 21, when he was sidelined with what appears to be a more “serious” injury than originally thought of. It seems like there has been a lot of downplaying and overhyping going around town, I don’t know who to believe. For now Bears fans can dismiss whatever is on the web and just wait for the facts to come out soon. There is no telling the truth, and I won’t take any of these reports to the bank until I hear Tommie Harris, not Lovie Smith, comment on the big issue.

Impact/Effect: You have to count Harris in unless he has to go through season-ending knee surgery. I believe the Bears are taking precautionary measures and also know something we don’t - what are they hiding? Regardless of the final verdict, this isn’t good news for a team that has been all but bad news up to this point on defense. Who stands up on D, does the 2006 or 2007 version show up? Will Tommie Harris be at full strength in ‘08? Does this even matter with the state that the offense is in? You can only control so much, and all the Bears can do is get their defensive line (heavy dose of Israel/Dusty) prepared to play and their offense settled in, as they (OL big factor) concentrate on running the ball and limiting mistakes. On both sides of the line lies the Bears greatest weaknesses - their ability to run and stop the run.

Time Of Possession Battle: The turnover differential is important, the defense has to force takeaways and generate pressure up front against a banged up Colts line, but just as important is the vital time of possession factor - if you control the clock, the defense stays fresh. With that being said, can the offense shoulder the load and take some pressure off a defense that has been doing the lifting and shouldering for an offense that has been bailed out time after time? Now may be the best time for the offense to take its turn in returning the favor, doing their job in hanging onto the ball while the Tommie Harris-led defense recovers in hope of getting back to elite form - if they are capable.

First Full Official Injury Report

Other View Points - National Football Post

Bears Receive OL Help: Trade for Guard Buenning, Practice Squad For CB Bowman

Posted by Russ Loede on September 2nd, 2008 filed in Main, News, Rookies, Roster
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Buenning for Griese: The Chicago Bears obtained a boost on the offensive line today, as they traded for Tampa Bay Buccaneers guard Dan Buenning. Buenning, a ‘05 4th round selection out of Wisconsin, is recovering from a torn ACL he suffered in ‘06 against Dallas on Thanksgiving night. The former Badger seems to be healthy: “I’m right there now, healthy as a horse,” Buenning reported to Tampa Tribune in early August. “It was an ACL and that’s usually a year. He started all 16 games at left guard as a rookie for a Bucs club which made the Playoffs.

Bowman Returns - 8-Man Practice Squad Filled: The team deals back the 6th round draft pick they acquired from Tampa earlier in the off-season for QB Brian Griese. Now there are eight healthy offensive linemen on the squad ready to compete against Indy. This was a smart decision - a “must” move for a team with arguably the worst OL in all of football.  The team’s interior run blocking is hard to fathom/tolerate.  Zack Bowman, the 5th rounder out of Nebraska, was the obvious odd man out in the 5-man cornerback rotation.  I did not want to see him off the active roster- he possesses all the tools that you’d like to see in a successful defensive back at the next level.  At 6-foot 1, 195 pounds, I figure him still to be a viable replacement and in the team’s plans for ‘08.  He possibly could get activated and fill-in as a capable back-up in case Trumaine McBride regresses or Danieal Manning moves back (if nickel back role doesn’t work out) to his original safety position.  Bowman is the team’s 8th and final member of the practice squad.

Bears Name Team Captains, Hester Starting WR

Posted by Russ Loede on September 2nd, 2008 filed in Main, News
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Chicago Bears 2008 Team Captains Set For Week 1 @ Indy:

Offense: 1. QB Kyle Orton 2. Center Olin Kreutz

Defense: 1. LB Brian Urlacher 2. Safety Mike Brown

Special Teams: Long Snapper Patrick Mannelly

Other News: The Windy City Flyer and Brandon Lloyd have been named starting wide receivers.

Quick Analysis: I rather have Tommie Harris or Charles Tillman going out for the coin toss over Mike Brown or even Brian Urlacher. New, fresh, young faces - plus Harris/Tillman are as consistent as you can get, they don’t miss many games. Brown is the proclaimed “Heart and Soul” of the Defense and Urlacher is the “Face of Chicago” but Harris is the team’s best defensive player and he is a tough customer who played through a numerous amount of injuries throughout the ‘07 campaign. I still like having Brown/Urlacher out there - don’t get me wrong. I just would want different players like a Harris or Tillman, how about Mr. Briggs? Either way, the team captains mainly just go out for the coin toss - and that’s it, that’s all that’s asked of ‘em (no big deal). Anyone and everyone can step up and be a leader or a captain vocally, and I’m sure that’s what Tommie and Charles are going to do.

How about Matt Forte as a rookie over Orton?  He is like a veteran and seems to lead by example with his work ethic and character.  Speaking of Orton, I like that selection - gutsy! Not that it really even matters, for the most part it goes to the veterans like Kreutz and Mannelly. It will be interesting to see if this pumps up Orton and boost his confidence. I wonder when Hester will get the nod over Mannelly?

As for the announcement of the starting wideouts - fine with me. Lloyd earned it and is a deep threat who has shown a willingness to improve and put the past behind. Has displayed tremendous hands and can make the tough catch - but how about the routine receptions? Now on to Hester, has he earned it? He’s the starter because of his big contract, let’s face it - Rashied Davis has clearly outplayed him and every other receiver on the 53-man roster. I would like to see Hester or Davis in the slot on every play. Who knows, maybe Mark Bradley and Marty Booker will be the starting pair Week 2 or Brandon Rideau gets elevated from the practice squad to being named a starter? It’s all up for grabs and the OL/QB play will determine the WR’s production. All the pass catchers have to do is make plays, block, and get separation for the defensive backs. Easier said that done, but right now it’s true that both Lloyd and Hester surely fit the description.

53-Shuffle: Bears Defensive Evaluation

Posted by Russ Loede on August 31st, 2008 filed in Bear Insight, Features, Inside The Bears, Main, News, Opinions, Rookies, Roster
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Defensive Line: I understand the recent injuries of the defensive tackles, the inability to stop the run up the middle, and the lack of a second force inside next to Tommie Harris, but why keep a total of nine linemen on D - 2 more than on the offensive side of the ball? Overall, I believe the DL is one of the team’s most consistent and strongest units, one of the few areas not considered a weakness or disappointment. It’s unnecessary considering Israel Idonije is an absolute monster, who can play anywhere on the defensive line. I cannot rave enough about his importance and productivity, in how he is starting to have his way on the line and still do his thing on special teams. Israel has to be the most versatile player on the team - you cannot underestimate his value. He basically fills three spots on the team - a 3-in-1 special! He can do it all and continues to develop his game, progressing in all phases and facets of what he does. Having Israel and Mark Anderson rotating to keep the line fresh is a definite plus.

Matt Toeaina, the last guy kept, looked good last season as a run stuffer and it’s good to have him. Though if everyone stays healthy, he will not see time other than in mop up duty and maybe goal line situations. Marcus Harrison and Dusty Dvoracek are primed to create havoc getting into backfields. Harrison a gem: Michael Lombardi of the National Football Post, a highly esteemed and well respected former high level NFL executive for 23 years (Raiders/Browns) had this to say about the 3rd round Arkansas product: (Tape Time article) “The Bears have to find a way to get third-round pick Marcus Harrison on the field all the time. He is one of their best players.” With Dusty healthy and Harrison on the rise to go along with the “Real Deal” Tommie Harris - that’s a terrific trio at DT.

Anthony Adams does nothing whatsoever to help this team. I would’ve cut him right away, he should have been sent walking! He just takes up space, and when watching him live at the Cleveland game I was upset and unimpressed. Just because he’s a veteran and was good at college - Penn State, go figure. I would’ve kept 7th round Michigan State pass rush specialist Ervin Baldwin (*Signed to Practice Squad*) ahead of Adams, despite the team’s need for run stoppers. Baldwin brings more to the table and offers the ability to contribute on special teams, unlike Adams. He had a solid preseason and showed “life” at end. Dan Bauzin - don’t let the door hit you on the way out! Bust Bauzin was injury prone, showed no sense of urgency or burst, and could not get to the QB. Waste of pick in the late 2nd round of ‘07 Draft - a reach (Thomas Jones deal). The team doesn’t need any stiffs or bums on the roster. His stats/sacks at a small school (W.Michigan) were a fluke.

Linebackers: Michael Owko, a 3rd rounder from Stanford is another player who GM Jerry Angelo reached for way too high, who was unimpressive, unenthusiastic, and unproductive. Injuries played a big factor, but the team was correct in keeping special team fliers Nick Roach and Darrell McClover ahead of Okwo. McClover is a leader on the ST unit and Roach has taken off. Both were picked up off of waivers and are raising eyebrows. McClover blocks punts, makes tackles, and has a special combination of speed and strength - he will surely replace Brendon Ayanbadejo. Impact player who I expect to improve and do more in ‘08 - Jamar Williams. I like his instincts and how he overcame injuries to be at where he’s at right now. He is a more than capable enough back-up at strong side ‘backer behind Hunter. Williams was one of the few players who showed some intensity in Cleveland.

Secondary: Craig Steltz - rumors had him in danger of getting cut. The LSU product was very inconsistent and out of place throughout exhibition play. Hopefully he catches on and adjusts to NFL game speed. I don’t understand why draft experts and so many around the organization thought he could start right away - he definitely is not NFL-ready. Very slow in recovery speed and in overall pass coverage. It’s going to take some time. Should go with what got him here - intelligence and ball skills. Kevin Payne - Big fan of Mr. Payne ever since we drafted him. If he stays healthy, I expect him to overtake Brandon McGowan as the starting strong safety next to Mike Brown. Payne is extremely versatile (former RB, played almost every position in College) and knows how to play the game - has the smarts, unlike McGowan. McGowan’s more of a go-for-it-all type hitter who wants to knock you out. I like the fact he’s very aggressive, but he has to tone it down and play smarter. Payne on the other hand, is in line to start because he has more range and is better in pass coverage. Nose for the ball, excellent athleticism to play both free (deep man) and strong (stopping run in the box) safety.

Danieal Manning - it will be interesting to see how he uses his ability as the new nickel back. Although Manning’s skill goes without question, it’s his poor recognition and lack of improvement to adjust to being a better coverage guy that makes me wonder if he can handle the position. I believe he will step up if he gets the ball in the open field as a KR and via interceptions - that will jumpstart him, he’s a ball hawk. Has to learn how to wrap-up, tackling in the open field. Zackary Bowman - I see Bowman exceeding what Trumaine McBride did last season. He has all the tools, bigger and more physical than McBride. Should pass him up on the depth chart due to McBride’s fall in play during preseason. I like both players - they bring different approach/styles.

Corey Graham - Just like Manning and Payne, he is very talented. Unquestionably and undoubtedly, Graham is atop my list for top performers no one outside the Bears knows about. On special teams he’s a force to be reckoned with (2 TD’s, last year vs. GB, @ Seattle game 2 of preseason) and on defense at CB he has improved the most out of any player on D besides Israel. Graham will do what Manning should do at nickel back and it may not be long (very soon?) before he takes his NB job. Reminds me of Charles Tillman - could be even better. Playmaking ability/ball awareness likened unto Nathan Vasher. If he steps up the way he should, the defense will greatly benefit. The ability to cover the slot and create takeaways is vastly important - I’m counting on him to excel. If he bulks up, he should get a shot to play free safety if Mike Brown feels comfortable and healthy enough to play strong. Teams will know #21 before the season’s over. A household name - who knows, only time will tell, if he gets the opportunity to shine - Yes.

53-Shuffle: Bears Offensive Evaluation

Posted by Russ Loede on August 30th, 2008 filed in Bear Insight, Features, Inside The Bears, Main, News, Opinions, Rookies, Roster
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Quarterbacks: Caleb Hanie is a welcomed addition to the 53-man club because he possesses an “NFL arm (zips deep passes with ease)” and superb mobility, something you need when taking snaps with an incredibly shaky offensive line (total understatement). Hanie’s confidence was apparent in the preseason, while displaying keen awareness to go along good decision-making skills.

He’s the most talented signal caller on the roster, wouldn’t be surprised to see him in their as a starter - sooner rather than later. Shows traits that Orton and Rex don’t possess. Has the size you want in a QB, very strong @ 230 pounds. - Absolutely no reason to go out and get Chris Simms, unless they feel the desire to cut Rex.

Running Backs: Giving Kevin Jones a spot is smart, though he still looks too hesitant making sharp cuts, in and out of moves. Tough, physical runner who is the most experienced back on the team. Work ethic, hunger, hands, and blocking ability is all there. Adrian Peterson is a special teams standout/ace - but keep in mind he will be on the field 2-3 series a game, more so as a 3rd down back and especially in short yardage situations. Offers a bruising style, above-average hands, and a good feel for the game picking up blocks. Does the little things - but nothing exceptionally well. Needs to break more tackles and improve on keeping his balance when moving his feet for extra yardage.

On the other hand, Garrett Wolfe barely made the team - is it just because he was drafted in the 3rd round? He should watch Darren Sproles. Has to become a playmaker and use his speed and vision, hiding behind linemen. Wolfe has show me nothing yet - where’s the quickness, elusiveness, and explosiveness, can he be a “change-of-pace” type back for Matt Forte?

Fullback: Jason McKie is a mediocre lead blocker and cannot run nor catch all that well. Would like to see team use more single backformations and 4 WR sets (include Olsen spread out in for McKie with Clark at TE). I want to see Kellen Davis and Greg Olsen on the field more than McKie to open up the middle for short passes and crossing routes.  Jason Davis (Philadelphia Eagles) was signed to the practice squad - Tony Hunt barely beat him out for the starting job.

Wide Receivers: Brandon Rideau had an impressive preseason (3 TD’s) and was signed to the practice squad. At 6′3″, he shows good hands and decent speed. Marty Booker was non-existent throughout all four exhibition games. Is the team just saving him for the regular season? He makes team instead of Rideau because he’s a veteran, he can block, and he’s a sure-handed target across the middle on 3rd downs.

I approve the idea of keeping Mark Bradley yet again. Why not another try? He’s the most talented wideout besides Devin Hester and he has improved catching the rock. He is the tallest receiver (6′2″), a valid deep threat option, and is finally healthy! Give Earl Bennett some time - he was a gem in the Draft and I like his instincts, toughness, and overall balance. Has a chance to be the most productive, consistent pass catcher.

Tight Ends: At 6-feet, 7-inches Kellen Davis should have an opportunity to make an impact right away in the red zone area. With Desmond Clark hurt, Davis is getting more reps and valuable playing time. Just needs to focus on looking in the easy catches because he has all the athleticism in the world to make the difficult ones (See: preseason game 2 @ Seattle). He makes things look easy with his frame, skill set, and excellent jumping ability. The sky’s the limit. I would like to see him in for effective, successful play-action plays. Now the big question is: When will the team realize they should use him and with what formation/special package?

Offensive Line: Glad to see Kirk Barton make the squad. He brings dedication and passion, knowing what it takes to win being at Ohio State (sort of, you get the picture). Barton is not a mauler by any means, but he does show good awareness in pass protection - good technique, fundamentally sound. We struggle if he gets in, not yet ready. More of a right tackle, will take time to develop - good investment. Reminds me of Shane Olivea. Very surprised to see team only keep seven linemen (9 DL). Extremely bad move considering it’s the team’s weakest position by far. Would’ve liked to see G/C Anthony Oakley stay because of his versatility - maybe practice squad candidate? Letting go of guard Tyler Reed was a good move, he’s been on the team too long doing nothing.

Needless to say, Chris Williams’ prolonging back injury has set the team back, way back. Actually, not drafting any serviceable/decent linemen during Angelo Era is mind-boggling and shocking - that’s the main reason for the OL’s downfall. Is it necessary to offer Fred Miller a contract? Yes, why not? I take him over Barton as the back-up for now - just for a season, though he was downright awful in ‘07. To keep it short, 2002 3rd round draft pick guard Terrence Metcalf, plain and simple - should be GONE! Whether it be injury-prone factor, ineffectiveness, or just he’s worn out his welcome, fact of the matter is - he is completely useless. I hope we release this stiff, bum, call him what you want but call him - for an OL that can suit and play, preferably a guard. This team has no interior run blocking whatsoever! Sad part about it - are there any guards out there? Big concern, major weakness - it has to be addressed, maybe the combo of Josh Beekman/Roberto Garza will have something to say.

Who’s Available: Former Cincinnati Bengals All Pro OT Willie Anderson and Pittsburgh Steelers OT Max Starks. Both would be upgrades over journeyman false start victim John St. Clair (decent, versatile - just not a left tackle) at LT. Though here’s where the dilemma/catch is: MONEY Issues - The Rea$on Ander$on (refused pay cut) is on the open market and Stark$ (underachiever, transition tag) is on the trading block. Is GM Jerry Angelo that desperate? I would think so. Dollar signs could be holding any move on standby. I wonder if there is a way to duplicate four Olin Kreutz clones?

Tomorrow: DEFENSIVE Evaluation

Bears Make Roster Cuts to Get to 53

Posted by Matt Loede on August 30th, 2008 filed in News
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The Bears made their cuts today, among them included tight end Marcus Stone, cornerback Trey Brown, receiver Brandon Rideau, defensive ends Ervin Baldwin and Joe Clermond, offensive lineman Anthony Oakley, tight end Fontel Mines and linebacker Joey LaRocque.  Here is the official 53-man roster for now:

QUARTERBACK (3)–Orton, Grossman, Hanie.

RUNNING BACK (4)–Forte, Jones, Wolfe, Peterson.

FULLBACK (1)–McKie.

WIDE RECEIVER (6)–Hester, Lloyd, Bennett, Booker, Bradley, Davis.

TIGHT END (3)–Clark, Olsen, Davis.

OFFENSIVE LINE (8)–Kreutz, Beekman, Metcalf, Garza, Tait, St. Clair, Williams, Barton.

TOTAL OFFENSE: 25

DEFENSIVE LINE (9)–Harris, Adams, Dvoracek, Idonije, Harrison, Brown, Ogunleye, Anderson, Toeaina.

LINEBACKER (6)–Urlacher, Briggs, Hillenmeyer, Williams, McClover, Roach.

SAFETY (5)–Brown, McGowan, D. Manning, Payne, Steltz.

CORNERBACK (5)–Tillman, Vasher, Graham, Bowman, McBride.

TOTAL DEFENSE: 25

SPECIALISTS (3)–Gould, Maynard, Mannelly.

Bears Overcome Browns 16-10 to Wrap Up Preseason

Posted by Joseph Clifton on August 29th, 2008 filed in Game Stories
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Someone had to win! Last night I made the trip to Cleveland to watch the 0-3 Cleveland Browns host the 0-3 Chicago Bears. The game was rather uneventful an lacked much excitement. Never the less I came out of the stadium knowing a few things I didn’t know when I went in.

The days of solid defense in Chicago are over. The D line was beaten up ,and ran over all night long. Cleveland running backs had holes to run through that I could have driven my car through. Every running back Cleveland put in the game had success. Jason Wright had 9 carries and racked up 41 yards. Jerome Harrison came in next and carried a mer 7 times for 35 yards and a touchdown. In the second half Cleveland running back Travis Thomas ran 11 times for 70 yards. It didn’t matter if the Bears starters or scrubs where on the field, you really couldn’t tell them apart.

The Bears can say what they want, they still have a quarterback situation. Neither guy has done anything to step up and take over the position. Kyle Orton completed 4 of 7 passes for 51 yards and threw an interception. Orton’s interception was due to him getting hit and the ball floated a little, the pass just came up short. The impressive part of Orton’s game was that he appeared comfortable in the pocket and made his reads. He didn’t force anything or appear to be in a hurry.

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Bears Release CB Ricky Manning Jr.

Posted by Matt Loede on August 26th, 2008 filed in News
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The Bears today released cornerback Ricky Manning Jr. In two seasons with the team, he appeared in 31 games with 11 starts. With the Bears, Manning had 106 tackles, three sacks and five interceptions. He signed with the team as a restricted free agent in 2006. Manning entered the league in 2003 as a third-round selection of the Carolina Panthers. In 79 games, he had 292 tackles and 14 interceptions returning two for touchdowns.