Panthers Beat Bears: The Morning After
Oct 5, 2014; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers middle linebacker Luke Kuechly (59) tackles Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte (22) during the fourth quarter at Bank of America Stadium. The Panthers defeated the Bears 31-24. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
Just after my rage-induced crying spell due to lack of offensive efficiency by the Chicago Bears occurred, I sat there and thought about the state of our beloved. Yesterday’s loss stung a bit more than any other loss because of this: As of right now, the Chicago Bears are playing mediocre football. Our “high powered” offense was underachieving, special teams play was atrocious, and play calling was questionable.
The Bears started off their day by allowing a 79 yard punt return for a touchdown, courtesy of Philly Brown. Special Teams may be overlooked, but it’s value cannot be overstated. The Joe DeCamillis hire is looking more and more suspect each passing week. The Bears can’t tackle on kickoffs, commit bone-headed penalties, and seem to be a bad play waiting to happen. At what point do we make a change? How long of a leash does DeCamillis have?
Cutler and co. came out firing, and the score quickly became 21-7, Bears. THIS is what was so disappointing about yesterday’s loss, The Bears were in it. They held a two touchdown lead, and they squandered it. Good football teams don’t do this. Good football teams put games away. The Bears offense has been underachieving since the second half of the Green Bay game last week.
Jay Cutler threw one of his trademark game-changing interceptions in the fourth quarter. The offense attempted to outdo itself on the following possession with a fumble by Matt Forte.
The game was over. We all knew it. The Panthers had their momentum shift start just before halftime, and they capitalized on the Bears offensive miscues.
Marc Trestman’s predictable play-calling, and lack of downfield passing attempts can’t be overlooked. Dump passes to Matt Forte on third and seven isn’t going cut it. The Bears have the tallest receiving corps in the NFL, and Carolina’s corners were small. Why play to their strengths and let their front seven wreak havoc on the offense? Jefferey, Bennett, and Marshall should have had a field day, by abusing Carolina’s small defensive backs. But, the play calling was oddly conservative.
The Bears aren’t done. There’s still 11 games to go. I’m not sure it’s time to hit the panic button just yet, but performances like the one showcased yesterday are rather alarming. Here’s to hoping an inconsistent offensive unit can buckle down, and start firing on all cylinders.