Rapid Reaction Bears 34 Raiders 26

Aug 23, 2013; Oakland, CA, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) throws the ball against the Oakland Raiders during the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Bears have shown major improvement in their win over the Oakland Raiders. Jay Cutler spread the ball around, Matt Forte ran and caught the ball out of the backfield. The offensive line held their own in pass protection and run blocking. Granted, Jay Cutler was getting rid of the football within 3 seconds of the snap, the Offensive line was doing what they were supposed to do.

The defense continued to do what they do and held the Raiders to 3 points into the half. Tim Jennings and Isaiah Frey both had interceptions, and Charles Tillman had a sack.

Special Teams played extremely well except for a little hiccup when they let a 62 kick off return.

You can check out my observations on the all important first half here. Here are some more observations about the game:

• The offensive line is doing a great job making it possible for Jay Cutler to step up in the pocket.
• Jay Cutler was making smart decisions. He may have been 12 for 21, but he had 5 dropped passes. No interceptions always makes me happy.
• If the Bears decide to keep 3 running backs, Michael Ford appears to be the player they will keep on the roster. Two spin moves for the touchdown. I thought I was watching someone playing Madden 25.
• Marquess Willson looked good in his limited snaps as a receiver with the ones and twos. I would not be surprised if he made the team as the Bears 4th or 5th receiver.
• Alshon Jeffery looked great even when he was slipping on the baseball field. 7 receptions for 77 yards in the half is impressive.
• Brandon Marshall and Martellus Bennett both had multiple drops, but I wouldn’t worry about it too much.
• Michael Bush ran for 2 touchdowns showing again that he is the perfect compliment to Matt Forte. The Bears may have the best running back duo in the league this year. I will nickname them Smokey and the Bandit. Maybe not.

The Bears offense is still a work in progress, but the arrow is pointing up. It appears that they have a good idea who is going to be the starting offensive line for opening day against the Bengals. The deadline for the 75 man roster is 3:00pm on Tuesday. I am curious to see who they will keep for the final preseason game against the Browns.