Oct 20, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) runs with the ball as Chicago Bears defensive end Julius Peppers (90) chases during the second half at FedEX Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Defensive Line (D-)
The defensive line is a train wreck. I guess that’s what losing two 3-technique tackles will do to you. Julius Peppers is getting pushed around like he’s on roller skates. Shea McClellin just flat out can’t play. Corey Wootton is improving in his role as a miscast DT.
Linebackers (C)
Lance Briggs was having a stellar game until he had to leave the game with a busted up shoulder. James Anderson continues his steady play. Rookie Jon Bostic showed flashes, but struggled to shed blocks in run support.
Cornerbacks (D)
I love Peanut Tillman but he really had a rough day at the office. Sure, he had another interception, but he just can’t run on his bum knee. The Bears can’t keep trotting him out there on one leg and expect him to perform. Tim Jennings was OK, but we sure could have used one of those late-game interceptions to seal the deal.
Safeties (F-)
I can’t offer a lower grade for the safeties. You can only hope that Chris Conte and Major Wright hit rock bottom. Neither one of them can cover worth a damn and their tackling is atrocious. They are blowing assignments routinely. I don’t know what the question is, but neither of these two is the answer.
Oct 20, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Devin Hester (23) runs with the ball past Washington Redskins defensive back Jose Gumbs (48) to make a touchdown in the second quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Special Teams (B)
Welcome back Devin Hester! Hester’s 81-yard punt return ignited the Bears at a key moment in the game when the Bears needed a spark. I don’t care what the officials said, no one was offsides on that Robbie Gould perfectly executed onside kick. Robbie knocks the grade down for missing a chip shot field goal when the Bears needed every point they could get.
Coaching (C)
I was really pleased with the job that Marc Trestman did when Cutler went down. I don’t know if it speaks to the play calling, the system or the preparation of McCown, but the offense got themselves into a shootout with their backup quarterback and almost had enough firepower to pull off the win.
The job that Mel Tucker has done must be called into question. Some struggles are understandable with the rash of injuries that have plagued the defense, but players and coaches need to be held accountable. There’s no excuse for the missed assignments and poor preparation.
What do you think? What grades would you give the Bears?