Regardless of Cutler’s Status, Bears Season Lost Because of Defense

Oct 20, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins running back Roy Helu (29) carries the ball past Chicago Bears free safety Chris Conte (47) to score the game winning touchdown in the final minute against the Chicago Bears at FedEx Field. The Redskins won 44-41. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

You’ve spent years with a close relative, laughing and crying through good times and bad, hopefully more good than bad.  Then something happens and you start to realize that relative is starting to slip.  Before you know it, you face their mortality and realize the person you’ve loved is no longer the same person; that they’re dying right before your eyes.

That’s what it’s been like watching the Chicago Bears defense this season.  That loved one that you’ve shared these past years with is dying right before your eyes.  This is what getting old in the NFL looks like.  It’s guys that are constantly banged up, guys who can’t stay on the field.  A year or two ago, they made that tackle for loss; now they’re grasping at air.  Or worse yet, they ‘re getting run over.