2013 Preseason: Bears vs. Chargers Game Ball

Picking the player who deserves the Game Ball was a tough decision this week. Mostly because it was the second preseason game and the starters didn’t play much after the first quarter. After thinking long and hard about the impact plays of the game I came to the decision that Brandon Marshall deserved to win this weeks honor of the Bear Goggles On Game Ball.

Aug 15, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Brandon Marshall (15) reacts to scoring a touchdown during the first quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Wierzbicki-USA TODAY Sports

I know people are going to argue that Marshall didn’t have the greatest game ever, but yet again he showed why he is such an important part of the offense of the Bears. He scored the first touchdown after an incredible run by Matt Forte setting the tone for the rest of the first quarter. The Bears looked lost without him last week against the Panthers and this week he showed why he is Jay Cutler’s number one target by catching balls that everyone on the defense knew were going to be thrown to him. Could Jay Cutler stare at Marshall any longer on that touchdown pass?

There are some honorable mentions from this second preseason game. Matt Forte had an excellent 58 yard run after a devastating Jermon Bushrod block. Shea McClellin had a sack fumble against Phillip Rivers which lead to the eventual 3 yard TD run by Matt Forte. Special Teams as a whole had a great game with a blocked punt, great starting field position and Michael Ford ran back a kickoff 100 yards. My favorite play had to be Middle Linebacker Jon Bostic’s tackle that was heard around the world. I was confused why it was considered an incomplete pass and not a fumble, but it was sure an impressive tackle by the rookie who continues to show that he can run with the starters.

It is still preseason and there is a lot of work to be done. There was definite improvement over last weeks game and the presence of Brandon Marshall on the field makes the Bears a much more impressive offense. I can’t wait to see what happens next week against the Raiders.

Bears!