Chicago Bears Week 12 4th Phase Game Ball: Matt Forte

Nov 24, 2013; St. Louis, MO, USA; Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte (22) carries the ball against the St. Louis Rams during the second half at the Edward Jones Dome. St. Louis defeated Chicago 42-21. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports

It’s hard to give a game ball when the Bears lose. If the Bears had won, they would have owned sole possession of first place because the Lions lost to the Buccaneers. The Bears still find themselves tied for first but really a game back because they were swept by Detroit and in a log jam for a wild card spot.

This week’s 4th Phase game ball goes to Matt Forte. Despite a fumble on his first carry, Forte was still had himself a solid game. He was effective in the running game and his pass catching was on full display. Forte finished the game with 16 carries for 77 yards and 7 catches for 40 yards. During the third quarter, Forte surpassed Neal Anderson to become the second leading rusher in Bears franchise history.

As a kid growing up, Anderson was one of my favorite players. If I wasn’t number 34, I wanted to be number 35. Let’s hope Forte can stay healthy and make a run at Walter Payton’s record. Not sure if it will happen but if it would be fun to root Forte on.

With Jay Cutler still out, Josh McCown will need to continue to lean on Forte as a safety valve. Having Forte back there with McCown gives him an extra set of eyes in the backfield and another weapon when a play breaks down.