Bears Talk

This is the year. We have the best shot at taking it all the way this year. I knew it before the season started. I even put money on it. Here's why:

I did not think Grossman was going to keep his stellar play at the same level all season but I did think he'd stay relatively healthy. He's a great quarterback for a number of reasons. He takes what's in front of him and does his best, then learns more from week to week. Keep in mind that he's had three offensive coordinators (thus, three different systems) with minimal playing time until this season. Sure, he did look awful for a few games, but he appears to be back in prime form.

We have a dominant defense. With all the injuries of late, it's clear that we have starters on any other team playing 2nd and even 3rd string behind superstar players. The fact that we're currently a little leaky on defense probably stems from the fact that these bench players are not used to playing a full game. (That's not the normal strategy even for the starters.) If we get Tank and Vasher back, there's a little less reason for concern.

Our special teams group is phenomenal. Brad Maynard stays out of the spotlight (the lonely kicker) but is one of the best, most consistent players on the team. Plus, I would hate to get hit by Adrian Peterson or Brendan Ayanbadejo (sp?) at full clip. They are brutal on kick returners.

Finally, the Bears claim to be a running offense. There has been a lot of passing this year (for better or worse) which I believe to be the indoctrination of Rex Grossman. Meanwhile, we really have an outstanding running game waiting in the wings. My greatest hope is that we have long, grinding running games in each of the playoff games and the Superbowl. If Grossman can get a few passes to Moose and Dez and stretch a defense, our three running backs can break a hole in any line.

I'm a little tired of all the complaints, the lack of national coverage (other than for controversial stuff), and the second-guessing. The Bears stated their goals under Lovie Smith - beat the Packers (check), get into the playoffs (check and check), and win the Superbowl (as yet unchecked.)

This is the year.