2013 4th Phase Game Ball: Alshon Jeffery

Dec 15, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) makes a touchdown catch against Cleveland Browns free safety Tashaun Gipson (39) during the fourth quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports

For the first time in years, basically for as long as I can remember, the Bears had a great offense this season. They ranked second in points and seventh in total yards. It was an offense that if they made the playoffs, would have been dangerous but more likely to get trounced by a more complete team.

It was difficult to give the season’s game ball because there were so many playmakers. Jay Cutler was off to his best start of his career; Brandon Marshall was as good as Marshall can get; Josh McCown didn’t miss a beat and kept Cutler’s seat warm; Matt Forte was second in total yards from scrimmage… but the 4th Phase game ball goes to Alshon Jeffery.

Week after week, Jeffery made spectacular catch after spectacular catch. He’s a big play receiver with a lot of promise and he’s only getting started. Jeffery still has to secure the ball better and has to be a little more consistent before he can be considered at top five receiver but he certainly has all the tools to make it happen.

Jeffery finished with 89 receptions (2nd on the team), 1,421 receiving yards (1st), 16.0 yards per reception (1st), and 7 touchdowns receiving touchdowns (2nd).

Let’s take a look some of Jeffery’s highlights this season…

On a side note, you’ll also see a good comparison of Cutler and McCown’s ball trajectory and placement. You can be your own judge but Cutler fit more passes in tight spots. That, in my opinion, is why the Bears made the absolute right decision in signing Cutler long term… but more on that in another post.