Chicago Bears Problems Lie In Defense, Not Offense
The Chicago Bears defense, once great, is now old and worn out. They get run over by receivers, and read like a book by opposing quarterbacks. With Jay Cutler, the Bears offense should be able to provide solid production, but defense does, and will always, win games.
The Bears defense has declined in talent after the Super Bowl loss to the Colts in 2006. It was ranked 5th in the league that year. They also posted a 13-3 record that year. In 2007 the rank dropped all the way to 28th in the league, and so did the win percentage. The team’s record in 2007 was 7-9. It was a huge disappointment after playing in the Super Bowl the season before. Last season the defense wasn’t great but was at least better than the 2007 season, ranked at 21st. The defense was hit with injuries, and it seemed like the receivers were always open. Still, despite their problems, the Bears were one play away from making the playoffs. Unfortunately they didn’t make the cut with a 9-7 record.
The Bears are known for having a stellar defense. The 2006 defense was being compared to the ’85 Bears D (although not so much in the ’07 season). Another trait of the Bears is not having a franchise quarterback. They have mostly relied on their running back and defense to put up the points. In 2006 the Bears offense was ranked 15th, proving that having a great defense but a mediocre offense could take you deep in to the postseason.
The 2008 team’s offense was also ranked 15th but the defense was a miserable 21st. A better defense would have had the Bears in the postseason. Bringing Jay Cutler helps the offense a lot, but the defense is the one that needs the help. I really like the Cutler trade because it gives us some years to improve the defense now, and not having to worry about what quarterback to start.
Some people say Cutler has no one to throw to, but that’s not true. He has one of the best Tight Ends in the league with Greg Olsen, a great receiving running back with Mate Forte, and a maturing receiver in Devin Hester. Earl Bennet and Juaquin Iglesias will also split the catches.
The offense is set for years to come, but it’s the defense that is rebuilding. Who knew the Bears could have a better offense than defense?
Tags: Chicago Bears, football, jay cutler, Lovie Smith, NFL, super bowl
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