Steelers Report Card: Able, Willing, Ready

The Steelers preseason means lots of things to lots of people, and here’s what this one means to me:  In the eight quarters that counted—the first half in the first two games, the first three in the third game and the first in the fourth game—the Steelers outscored their opponents by a 44-6 margin.

Whad’ya say, Steelers World? Is that dominant enough for you?

Except for the offensive line—and you may hear those five words a lot in the next few months—what was there not to like about the preseason?

The first-team defense allowed two measly field goals. That’s it. Zippo touchdowns. Even with feature back Willie Parker and wide receiver Santonio Holmes in limited roles, the first-team offense moved the ball consistently. The special teams were special.

Heck, the Steelers even may have found a new star. Something tells me that the ‘Burgh is gonna love this Stefan Logan guy.

Best of all, there were no significant injuries to speak of. When the Steelers open the season against the Tennessee Titans on Thursday night, their go-to guys should be good to go.

Give head man Mike Tomlin some credit here. Bill Cowher didn’t like to push it in the preseason. As a result, his teams weren’t always ready to answer the ball. Tomlin didn’t floor it exactly, but he made sure to keep his foot on the accelerator at all times.

I don’t know how this season will turn out, but I am certain of this much: If the Steelers don’t get ‘er done, then it won’t because they had a Supersized hangover from the previous season. This time somebody is gonna have to beat them.

 

The grades:

 

Offensive starters

QB Ben Roethlisberger: B

Completed only pass attempt…Stayed upright…Is he ready for his best season yet?

 

RB Rashard Mendenhall: D

Two carries, one yard…Took small step forward in preseason…Has yet to prove that he can carry load.

 

FB Frank Summers: B

Injury-plagued rookie may have done enough to earn roster spot…Executed solid block on first possession…Gained four yards, first down in only carry.

 

WR Shaun McDonald: B

Three catches, 43 yards…Fifth receiver with experience of No. 2 guy…Roster spot appears secure.

 

WR Dallas Baker: C

Steelers’ career may have ended with hip injury…Seventh-rounder never developed into big receiver that was needed here.

 

TE David Johnson: F

May have played his way onto practice squad…Guilty of false start, hold and personal foul penalties…Lack of discipline negated ability as physical blocker.

 

C A.Q. Shipley: C

Failed to make needed impression…Physical attributes come up shot at this level…Spot on practice squad is possible.

 

G Doug Legersky: B

Among the surprises of this preseason…Lack of size showed in pass protection, but agility played well in run game…Ability to play center puts him over top.

 

G Jeremy Parquet: C

Has size of tackle, strength of guard…Career backup at best…Could earn roster spot on basis of experience alone.

 

T Ramon Foster: B

Free-agent find all but assured roster spot…Has size, agility but lacks mean streak…Ability to play guard is plus…Possible future starter.

 

T Tony Hills: D

Continued to struggle in pass protection…Failed to show progress in preseason…Roster spot is in jeopardy.

 

PK Jeff Reed: B

Converted both extra-point attempts…Had no field-goal tries…Has to walk straight, narrow in final year of contract.

 

KR Mike Wallace: B

 

Defensive starters

 

NT: Chris Hoke: C

Had one tackle…Whistled for illegal hold…Adequate at point of attack. 

 

DE Ra’Shon Harris: B

Rookie continued to hold his own…Had one sack…Can sixth-rounder be hidden on practice squad?

 

DE Ziggy Hood: C

Closed with two tackles…Showed he could contribute off the bench immediately…Has motor, athleticism to be effective pass-rusher for years.

 

LB James Farrior: B

One of few regulars to see action…Was on field long enough to make one tackle…Appears to be in best physical condition in years.

 

LB Keyaron Fox: B

Finished impressive preseason with one sack, two tackles…Play on specials teams cannot be overlooked…Would start for several teams in league.

 

LB Arnold Harrison: A

One sack, one forced fumble may be enough to claim roster spot…Stuffed ball-carrier on 4th-and-1…Deserves to stay on perseverance alone.

 

LB Donovan Woods: B

Recovered fumble, returned it 27 yards…How was this guy not drafted?…Certainly will be claimed if released.

 

CB Joe Burnett: C

Made six tackles…Athleticism can be effective in right matchups…Could be gone if placed on practice squad.

 

CB Keenan Lewis: C

Often beaten on short-to-medium routes…Made 10 tackles as a result…Physical style appears to be best suited for nickel or dime role in future.

 

S Tyrone Carter: D

Continued to be liability in pass coverage…Often out of position in middle of field…Roster spot isn’t a given anymore.

 

S Ryan Mundy: A

May have played his way onto roster with best performance of preseason…Carted back interception for 31-yard touchdown…Also had one sack, one monster hit.

 

P Daniel Sepulveda: B

Five kicks, 41.4-yard average, one inside 20-yard line…He appears to have a future in league.

 

PR Stefan Logan: A

One return, 80 yards, six points…How long before we see “Logan’s Heroes” in  the stands at Heinz Field?

 

Selected reserves

LB Patrick Bailey: B

Totaled one tackle, two assists…Continued to be special on special teams…Almost certain to make final cut on that fact alone.

 

QB Mike Reilly: C

Pocket passer displayed impressive arm strength…Lack of agility, experience shows, but he deserves chance to develop elsewhere.

 

LB Bruce Davis: B

Had three tackles in one of the better performances of preseason…Was it too little, too late?…Third-rounder appears destined for practice squad.

 

CB Anthony Madison: D

Confirmed that he’s not cover guy…Can he make roster on special teams ability alone? 

 

RB Isaac Redman: A

Twelve carries, 79 yards, one touchdown…Lower-body strength was apparent on several broken tackles…Free agent improved chances for roster, but could be victim of numbers game.

 

G Kraig Urbik: C                                                                                             

He is what we thought he was…Third-rounder is mauler in run game, moveable object in pass protection…If he helps solves short-yard problems, nobody will mind.

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Steelers Report Card: The ’09 Model Is Built to Last

History tells us that, if anything can sabotage the Steelers in their latest repeat attempt, then it’s most likely to be attitude and/or health problems.

So the best news to come out of their impressive 17-0 shutout of the Buffalo Bills on Saturday night is this: Complacency does not appear to be an option.

Compared to the 2006 team that fell short of expectations, this model is far more focused and together after three pre-season games.

As for health issues, well, that’s in the hands of the football gods for the most part.  But if any team can withstand a spate of injuries, then the Steelers may be the one.

They’re two-deep at most positions, and except for James Harrison, Troy Polamalu, Ben Roethlisberger, and Hines Ward, anyone can be replaced, at least for the short term.

The good: Overdue to show some improvement, any improvement, the offensive line took a step forward. Along with center Justin Hartwig, the right side of Trai Essex and Willie Colon was consistent in the run and pass games.

In his first extended performance of the pre-season, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger showed no ill effects of a sore Achilles tendon.

The defense allowed eight first downs and 135 total yards. Led by punt returner Stefan Logan and punter Daniel Sepulveda, the special teams showed well again.

The bad: Penalties continued to be a problem, particularly those at the offensive side of the ball. One hold, one false start, and one delay of game were among the six that were accepted.

The indifferent: In an expanded role, reserve feature back Rashard Mendenhall didn’t disappoint or impress. The question remains whether he can carry a bigger load if necessary. 

 

The grades:

Offense starters

 

QB Ben Roethlisberger: B

Provided sound judgment, confident leadership . . . Completed 15-of-19 passes for 168 yards . . . Threw several balls to the wrong shoulder . . . Fumbled snap.

 

RB Carey Davis: C

Was adequate run-blocker in limited action . . . Did not carry ball from scrimmage again . . . Left game with ankle injury that did not appear to be serious.

 

RB Rashard Mendenhall: C

Forty-eight yards, 16 carries . . . Showed flashes but not enough of them . . . Lost fumble negated fast start . . . Misread hole on at least two occasions.

 

WR Limas Sweed: B

Is this guy related to Plaxico Burress or what? . . . Continued to make difficult catch, shoot himself in leg on easy one . . . Whistled for hold penalty . . . Did enough to claim No. 3 position but just barely.

 

WR Hines Ward: A

Made every play his way. . . Caught team-high five balls, three for first downs . . . Highlight was 19-yard body-bender over middle . . . Flashed trademark smile.  

 

TE Heath Miller: B

Totaled two receptions for 26 yards . . . Made one-hander in traffic . . . Capable of more in pass game . . . Consistent blocker.

 

C Justin Hartwig: B

Easily his best performance of pre-season . . . Was quicker, more active . . . Pulled out of line to make key block on touchdown . . . Is toe problem behind him?

 

G Trai Essex: B

Transplanted tackle moved well for size . . . Active in run game . . . False start was only obvious mistake.

 

G Chris Komoeatu: D

Appeared to be out of step after week layoff . . . Bull-rushed into backfield, fumble was result . . . Occasionally outquicked on pass plays.

 

T Willie Colon: B

Shows signs of consistency. . . Was strong, aggressive in run game . . . Executed kick-out block on touchdown . . . Consistent in pass protection.

 

T Max Starks: D

Performance hasn’t been commensurate with salary . . . Allowed only sack of game . . . Inconsistent in run game . . . Better suited for right side.

 

PK Piotr Czech: C

Replaced Jeff Reed (leg) . . . Made 34-yarder, missed 40-yarder . . . There’s a place for him in the league somewhere.

 

KR Mike Wallace: B

Limited to one return . . . Broke tackle on 24-yarder . . . Has speed, instincts to be factor here.

 

Defense starters

DE Brett Keisel: B

Strong at point of attack . . . Shows potential for career season . . . Memo to front office: Extend contract before start of regular season.

 

DE Aaron Smith: B

Taken out of play by hook block on outside run. . . Effective vs. run otherwise.

 

LB James Farrior: A

Had James Harrison hat trick . . . One sack, one interception, one touchdown . . . Did everything except sell pierogi’s at halftime.

 

LB James Harrison: A

Put consistent heat on quarterback . . . Pancaked receiver on dump-off pass . . . Memo to Bill Cowher: Why didn’t you play this guy earlier?

 

LB Lawrence Timmons: B

Showed improvement in run game . . . Three tackles, one assist . . . Out of position on short cross pattern . . . Left game with ankle injury that was said to be minor.

 

LB Lamarr Woodley: C

Caused wobbler on impressive bull rush . . . Pushed to side on 16-yard run . . . Needs to be more of factor in ground game.

 

CB William Gay: B

First-year starter appears to be comfortable in new role . . . Made one-on-one tackle after short pass completion.

 

CB Deshea Townsend: B

Broke up third-and-5 pass on first possession of game . . . Veteran doesn’t appear to have lost step yet.  

 

CB Ike Taylor: A

Limited No. 1 receiver Lee Evans to no catches . . . Has barely broken sweat in pre-season . . . Few balls thrown his way.

 

S Troy Polamalu: A

Shot gap to make tackle on 2-yard run . . . Only Madden Jinx stands between him and monster season.    

 

S Ryan Clark: B

Totaled two tackles . . . Played well versus run . . . Not tested in pass coverage.

 

P Daniel Sepulveda: B

Averaged 38.0 yards on three kicks, one inside 20-yard line . . . Better yet, none was returned.

 

PR Stefan Logan: A

Averaged 14.8 returns on three returns . . . Made good decisions . . . Earned roster spot.   

 

Selected reserves

QB Charlie Batch: B

Completed 7-of-9 pass attempts . . . Displayed poise, accuracy . . . If he’s not best back-up QB in league, then he’s close.

 

CB Joe Burnett: A

Blocked field-goal attempt to preserve shutout . . . Effective in pass coverage . . . Has play-maker potential . . . Earned roster spot.

 

OT Jason Capizzi: D

Adequate in pass protection, not so much in run game . . . Whistled for false start . . . Remains on the bubble.

 

LB Keyaron Fox: A

Continued to make impression with physical presence. . . Lowered boom on pass receiver . . . Got in face of quarterback on bull rush . . . Was force on special teams once again.

 

LB Arnold Harrison: B

Split one tackle, shared one sack . . . After two injury-shortened pre-seasons, his time may have arrived finally.

 

WR Shaun McDonald: B

Caught two passes in second half . . . Knows how to run routes, rarely drops ball . . . There should be no question about his status as one of top five receivers.

 

RB Mewelde Moore: C

Needed contact and got it in preseason debut . . . Touched ball three times from scrimmage . . . His value as multi-dimensional back cannot be overlooked here.

 

CB Keiwan Ratliff: B

Two tackles, one assist . . . Continued to make strong bid for spot in dime package . . . Ability to play safety is bonus.

 

RB Isaac Redman: C

Showed ability in open field on flare pass . . . Missed assignment led to botched play . . . Inability to play special teams hurts chances for roster spot.

 

A.Q. Shipley: C

Adequate in run game . . . Failed to move pile on failed fourth-and-1 run attempt . . . Is there place on roster for reserve lineman who plays one position?

 

WR Brandon Williams: C

Made unnecessary dive, dropped long ball . . . Executed deft stutter-step move on short pass. . .  Long shot to stick here.

 

LB Donovan Woods: B

Finished with three tackles, split one sack . . . Has lots of physical potential, lacks experience.

Old Foe Favre Is Least of Bears Concerns

          BOURBONNAIS, Ill. – News that Brett Favre had signed with the Minnesota Vikings was greeted with indifference in Bears camp on Tuesday; so much so that one would have thought Sean Salisbury had come out of retirement instead.

 

             The consensus among players and coaches was that the Vikings would be a better team because of the move, but they were too preoccupied to pay much attention to their division rivals.

 

 “Surprised? I haven’t spent a whole lot of thought on it, but nothing surprises me in our game,” said Head Coach Lovie Smith after a practice session later in the day. “He has been a great player. I assume he still is. The Vikings want him to be their quarterback. I assume they feel good about it. He’s another opponent. That’s how we look at it.”

 

 “I couldn’t answer that,” said Defensive Coordinator Rod Marinelli when asked whether the Vikings had improved their playoff chances. “They know. Obviously, they believe it does, sure. I’m more concerned about us. That’s all I worry about.  We’re in a situation that we just concern ourselves with how to get better.”

 

 “I mean, are we sure about that?” expressed defensive end Adewale Ogunleye that Favre had agreed to a two-year, $25-million deal after so many false starts.

 

Assured that Favre was a Viking at last, Ogunleye said, “You know what? The (New York) Jets experiment didn’t work well (for Favre last season), so I won’t jump on anybody’s bandwagon right now.

 

“Brett is a good quarterback. He was a good quarterback for Green Bay, and we beat him when he was with Green Bay. So I won’t say, ‘Oh, my god, the Vikings are the team we got to watch. We had to watch them before they got Brett.”

 

If the Bears weren’t concerned about the prospect of Favre in a purple uniform, then it could be for this reason: They beat him in five of the last six matchups, in which he completed only 57 percent of his passes and two touchdowns. In that span, he threw 13 interceptions, three of which were returned for touchdowns.

 

 “I’m not scared. Are you scared?” linebacker Lance Briggs asked reporters. “We played against him before. Minnesota, Green Bay, Detroit — every team poses its own threat. We’ll walk into that game like any other game, except that they’re a division opponent.”

 

“I hope he makes them better. Why? Because we want the best possible team to play us whether it’s here or in Minnesota. It doesn’t really matter who lines up, because we’ll bring our A game. That’s just the way it’s going to be.”

 

“I’ll give you one quote: ‘I’m excited,’” cornerback Charles Tillman said.

 

When pressed further, Tillman heaped mock praise on the 39-year-old veteran. “Yeah, did you see him throw to them (high school) kids? He still got it,” Tillman said before he turned serious. “I’m sure he’ll get enough practice with (former Bears) Bobby Wade and Bernard Berrian, so I think he’ll have something left in him.”

 

Perhaps tight end Desmond Clark was the least surprised of all. “Not to be self-serving, but go read my blog,” Clark bragged. “This morning before we even heard the news, I posted something that people said Brett Favre was headed to Minnesota.”

 

“There’s not a whole of talk about it around here. You might hear a guy mention something about it because it’s on TV, but as far as conversation in the locker room, there is no conversation about Brett Favre.”

 

As for defensive tackle Tommie Harris, he was tired of the incessant talk about quarterbacks – period.

 

“The first question was about (Jay) Cutler, now this one is about Favre,” Harris said with a disgusted look on his face before he walked away.

 

No Con: Mr. Hanie Is Real Deal in Bears Quarterback Derby

          BOURBONNAIS, Ill. – As expected, a Bears quarterback opened eyes in the preseason opener on Saturday night. What nobody predicted was that Jay Cutler wouldn’t be the one.

The quarterback was Caleb Hanie, who wants people to know that any similarities beyond their position and team designation are strictly coincidental.

          “He’s The Guy,” said Hanie, who upstaged Cutler in his much-hyped debut.

          Hanie would be content to be The Other Guy in his second season in the league. The 23-year-old did nothing to hurt his chances in an otherwise lackluster 27-20 loss against the Bills in Buffalo.

Hanie completed 8-of-11 pass attempts for 87 yards and one touchdown, a performance that gave him a substantial lead over Northwestern product Brett Basanez in their competition for the back-up role.

Basanez completed three passes in 11 attempts for 26 yards and one touchdown. Three of his passes were interceptions, one of which was a catchable ball.

          “I showed as much as I could show in one game that I could play in this league,” said Hanie, who did not throw an interception. “But I have to show that I can be consistent every week.”

On a night of precious few offensive highlights, Hanie provided one in the third period. He avoided the rush, scrambled to his right and connected with fullback Will Ta-ufo’ou on a 14-yard touchdown pass.

“We were anxious to see him that game,” offensive coordinator Ron Turner said. “He has a year in the system and a good offseason under his belt. He continues to show tremendous poise and awareness.”

Basanez has the only NFL regular-season appearance among the two candidates, but Hanie didn’t consider that to be a primary qualification for the position. He preferred to be judged on his performance.

 “It’s a reason to be concerned if we go out in the preseason and don’t play like we’re don’t show the flashes and upside that the coaches need to see in order to have trust and faith in us,” Hanie said. “We should be judged on performance.

“Obviously, when you come in as a rookie, you don’t have much game experience.  Everybody has to make the initial step. That’s how it has to be sometimes.”

Regardless of how Hanie and Basanez fare in the final three preseason games, chances are the team will sign a veteran back-up in advance of the regular season. Hanie is well aware that quarterbacks such as Tony Romo and Matt Schaub started their careers in a similar manner before they made names for themselves.

“(The preseason) is a showcase, a platform to propel your career,” Hanie said. “If this is the only thing that they give you to evaluate your career, then that’s what you have to deal with. That’s what a lot of people have done in the recent past.”

Dent, Hilgenberg Deserve Hall Passes

The Bears have more Hall of Famers than any NFL franchise, but seven years have passed since the last one got busted in Canton, OH. The drought could come to an end soon, though, and here are the candidates most qualified to crash the party:

 

Richard Dent (1983-93, 1995)

From the 1984 to 1988 seasons, the Bears defense was as dominant as any in pro football history. So why does it have only two Hall of Famers then?

As the most accomplished pass rusher of the group, Dent would appear to be next in line. His 124.5 sacks rank first on the Bears all-time list and his 137.5 overall are sixth in NFL history. If there are any doubts, then his Most Valuable Player performance in Super Bowl XX should answer them. Chance for a Hall call: 80 percent.

 

Jay Hilgenberg (1981-91)

In the 1980s decade, the Bears ranked first or second in ground yardage in the league five times, but not one of their o-linemen is a Hall of Fame member. Hilgenberg could change that before long.

The center anchored the o-line for eight seasons, a span in which he was a two-time All-Pro first-teamer and seven-time Pro Bowl selection. Despite average size, he started 122 of his final 128 games in a Bears uniform, a tribute to his instincts and agility. Chance for a Hall call: 65 percent.

 

Steve McMichael (1981-93)

Dan Hampton has a bust in Canton, OH, already, but was he that much better than the guy who played alongside him for 10 seasons? Hampton was a three-time Pro Bowler, one-time All-Pro first-teamer.

McMichael was a two-time Pro Bowler, two-time All-Pro first-teamer. And the man called Mongo had more sacks (92.5) than any Bears player except Dent since they became an official statistic. Chance for a Hall call: 35 percent.

 

Richie Petitbon (1959-68)

Not only was Petitbon among the better strong safeties in the league for 14 seasons, but as a defensive coordinator, he was instrumental in the Washington Redskins success for a dozen more (think: Dick LeBeau).

The four-time Pro Bowler intercepted at least five passes in six seasons, and his career total (48) ranks 38th in league history. Only Gary Fencik and Dick Butkus had more takeaways (44) in a Bears uniform. Chance for a Hall call: 25 percent.

 

Buddy Ryan (1978-85)

For the brunt of 26 seasons, his defenses set the standard for the rest of the league. As Bears d-coordinator, he was the brains behind the celebrated 46 Defense, which allowed the fewest yards in the league in consecutive seasons.

If not for his blustery image and marginal success as a head coach (career record: 55-55-1), his case wouldn’t be dismissed as easily. Chance for a Hall call: 25 percent. Chance that da coach Mike Ditka would give his presentation speech: absolutely none.

 

Rick Casares (1955-64)

Hall of Fame linebacker Sam Huff once told me that, among fullbacks, he ranked Casares and Jim Taylor behind only the great Jim Brown on his all-time list. The Bears bruiser played in five consecutive Pro Bowl games and was selected to the All-Pro first team once.

In 1956, Casares rushed for 1,126 yards and 12 touchdowns in a 12-game season, a team standard that only Gale Sayers and Walter Payton achieved since then. If not for the brutally physical nature of the game at the time, he would have put up better career numbers. Chance for a Hall call: 20 percent.

 

Joe Fortunato (1955-66)

Even though his 12-year career was comparable to those of linebackers Ray Nitschke and Dave Wilcox, both Hall of Fame inductees, he is rarely mentioned in such discussions.

A three time All-Pro first-teamer and five-time Pro Bowler, he was a fixture at outside linebacker for a unit that ranked among the best in the league for years. Only Butkus recovered more fumbles (22) in team history. Chance for a Hall call: 20 percent.

 

Dick Barwegan (1950-52)

Of the 19 players selected to the 1950’s All-Decade Team, the guard is one of only four not in the Hall of Fame currently. In three seasons in a Bears uniform, the Chicago native was selected to the Pro Bowl three times and to the All-Pro first team two times.

Because the Hall of Fame voters have largely ignored the guard position over the years, Barwegan appears destined to remain one of the best o-linemen that few have heard of. Chance for a Hall call: 10 percent.

 

Harlon Hill (1954-61)

The careers of Hill and Sayers are eerily similar. In his first three seasons, Hill caught 134 balls for 3,041 yards and 32 TDs, which were ridiculous numbers in an era of run-heavy offenses.

Like Sayers, Hill suffered a major injury at 25 years of age and never was the same again. Yet while Sayers is in the Hall of Fame on the strength of five stellar seasons, Hill has been overlooked even though his five best seasons were in the same ballpark. Chance for a Hall call: 10 percent.

 

Neal Anderson (1986-93)

At his peak, he was on the short list of best all-purpose backs in the league. He averaged 1,835 total yards and 12 touchdowns in a four-year period, each of which included a Pro Bowl invitation.

Only Payton had more rush attempts (1,515) and yards (6,166) and total touchdowns (71) in team history. Even though injuries shortened his career, he still ranks 53rd in rush touchdowns (51) in NFL history. Chance for a Hall call: five  percent.

Go Green: Drake Likes Hester’s Chances

Don’t Expect the Air Bears, But Cutler-Led Offense Will Be Different

Yippee! Hooray! The Chicago Bears found a quarterback who can throw the football and move in the pocket! And they didn’t have to exume Sid Luckman, either!

OK, what next?

         
Now that offensive coordinator Ron Turner has pinched himself and realizes that the Jay Cutler trade isn’t a dream, he has to put together a game plan that will take full advantage of the new quarterback and his skill set.

Cutler and Turner meet for about two hours almost every day to discuss what may or may not work, but make no mistake about it—the offense is a work in progress and figures to be for awhile.

         
Here’s an early look at what changes may in order for next season:

         
Fewer screens, flares and dump-offs.Cutler would rather take his shots downfield than make the safe play. The gunslinger attitude gets the quarterback into trouble sometimes—he throws into coverage rather frequently—but the trade-off is an inordinate number of big plays in the pass game.

Last season Peyton Hillis led all Broncos backs with a mere 13 receptions. By comparison, Bears feature back Matt Forte had 63 catches. If Forte has that many this season, then it probably means one thing: The offensive line didn’t give the quarterback enough time to throw the ball.

More bootlegs and rollouts. Cutler has good mobility and throws accurately on the run. The combination is ideal for fades, hitches and out patterns on throws from outside the pocket.

Cutler won’t hesitate to pull the ball down and run with it, either. His 57 attempts were second among quarterbacks last season, although Turner is sure to  remind him to pick his spots carefully.

More deep passes. Last season Cutler completed 55 passes of 20-or-more yards, 21 more than his predecessor Kyle Orton and second most in the league.

If you got a gun, then shoot it, right? The question is, who will take the bullet at the other end?

         
The Bears have a shortage of established long-ball threats, but they do have Devin Hester, the human blur. As a pass receiver, Hester is as green as the Lake Forest practice fields. He also had pure speed that can be deadly on straight-line patterns. Expect Cutler and Hester to get acquainted early and often this season.

         
More play-action passes. Don’t expect these to become the Air Bears all of a sudden. Cutler may not throw the ball much more than Orton did a year ago, when the offense ranked 14th in the category in the league.

The difference is, at least in theory, the improved pass game will make the run game better and vice versa. If the offense establishes a consistent ground attack, which will be its top priority as usual, then play-action will become a more effective option.

Bears Have Great Expectations, But Don’t Supersize Them Yet

The instant that the Bears acquired Jay Cutler in a Bronco-bustin’ trade last month, everyone from fans to media have been overcome by a wild fit of optimism the likes of which haven’t been seen or heard in recent memory, maybe ever.

Who could blame these people, really? Chicago has a franchise quarterback every Halley’s Comet or so, and the mere thought of a Pro Bowler behind center was enough to trigger visions of victory celebrations and Super Bowl parades in the years to come.

Whoa there, Bronko. Remember, last season this team ranked 26th in yards per game and 14th in points per game on offense, 21st in yards allowed and 16th in points allowed on defense and failed to make the playoffs in a Bounty-soft division. If there are two things that Cutler cannot do, then it’s 1) catch his own pass for substantial yardage, and 2) intercept one within the rules on the bench.

So put the navy blue-and-burnt orange Kool-Aid in the fridge for the moment. Unless something drastic comes about between now the regular-season opener —Anquan Boldin, anyone?—these are the realistic expectations for the Bears in the 2009 season.

A more balanced offense. The Bears ranked higher in pass yards per game (21st) than on the ground (24th) last season, but the numbers are a bit deceptive. Because the offense had no deep game to speak of—it didn’t produce a TD pass of more than 51 yards until the 12th week of the season—opponents crowded the of line scrimmage like the front door of an unemployment office.

Enter J.C. Superstar and his golden right arm.

Cutler won’t put up the 4,500-plus yards and 25 touchdowns that he did with the Denver Broncos last season. In fact, he may not come close. In a more run-oriented offense, Cutler won’t put the ball in the air nearly as often this season. Plus, the Bears lack the kind of accomplished receivers that he had a year ago.

Even so, Cutler has the mobility and arm strength to take the pass game to a level that hasn’t been witnessed since…since…the Erik Kramer days? What’s more, the threat of Cutler with the ball in his right hand should make the ground attack that much better. Because feature back Matt Forte won’t have to run against eight defenders in the box nearly as often, a 1,500-yard season isn’t out of the question for him.

An improved pass rush. For all the negative talk about the offense last season, the defense failed to get ‘er done too many times as well. In particular, the lack of a consistent pass rush was a problem. The unit accounted for only 28 sacks, the ninth-lowest total in the league. Only three players had as many as four takedowns and none had more than a half-dozen.

The inability to pressure the quarterback in pass situations had a ripple effect on the rest of the unit. No defense in the league blitzed more than this one, and the decreased numbers in the secondary left it vulnerable especally against short-to-medium routes.

In ends Alex Brown, Israel Idonije and Adewale Ogunleye, tackles Dusty Dvoracek, Marcus Harrison and Tommie Harris and weak-side linebacker Lance Briggs, the front line packs enough talent, experience and numbers to bounce back this season. There should be no shortage of motivation, either, as the contracts of Idonije and Ogunleye are scheduled to expire after the season.

The NFC North championship. In each of the last six seasons, either nine or 10 victories were enough to win the division crown. Figure those to be the magic numbers again, as the competition appears to be more balanced from top to bottom this time around.

Given their manageable schedule, only health problems may stand between the Bears and 10 victories. In addition to the six games versus division rivals, they are scheduled to play against the NFC West teams (Arizona Cardinals, San Francisco 49ers, Seattle Seahawks, St. Louis Rams), the AFC North teams (Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Browns, Pittsburgh Steelers) in addition to the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles.

At this point, only the dates with the Cardinals (home), Eagles (home), Falcons (road), Ravens (road), Steelers (home) and Seahawks (road) appear to be difficult ones.

If the Bears can split the half-dozen toughies, take 4-of-6 in the division and win three of the other four, then that adds up to 10 victories and a division championship in all probability.

One the top three conference postseason seeds. OK, let’s be positive here. Suppose the football gods are kind enough to hand the Bears an 11th victory. In all likelihood, that leaves them at no worse than the No. 3 seed in the conference playoffs, a bye in the first round and at least one more game at home.

A postseason victory would be a giant step forward for the Bears in general and Cutler in particular. The guy has zero playoff victories in his three-year career— or the same number as Kyle Orton, the quarterback for whom he was traded. Cutler needs to silence the wolves that question his leadership abilities, and the sooner he does  it, the better it will be for him and his team.

The Super Bowl XLIV championship—but only if the Cubs win the World Series first.

Let the Cutler Era (and Questions) Begin

Chicago had waited weeks for Wednesday to arrive finally. Actually, years. It was the afternoon that Bears quarterback Jay Cutler unleashed his first passes on the practice field in Lake Forest, and the new rich kid on the block didn’t disappoint anyone.

J.C. Superstar displayed the rocket arm and stone-cold swagger that convinced the front office to send quarterback Kyle Orton, a pair of first-round draft picks and a third-rounder to the Denver Broncos in a trade early last month.

Something else stood out as much as Cutler and his tight spirals downfield at the OTA – the slew of dropped passes at the other end of them.

Preseason camp may be 10 weeks away, but it’s not too early to ask some pertinent questions here. Is Cutler destined to be a Ferrari with four flat tires? Or is there enough talent and savvy at wide receiver to elevate the pass game to a championship level at last?

That position battle heads the list of ones that will merit close looks later this summer. Here they are with their Degree of Urgency based on a 1-to-10 scale:

 

Wide receiver: Earl Bennett versus Rashied Davis versus Devin Hester versus Juaquin Iglesias.

The foursome has 145 receptions and seven touchdowns in their NFL careers. As Cutler’s favorite target last season, Broncos wide receiver Brandon Marshall had 104 catches and six TDs alone.   

Bennett and Cutler are on the same page—they’re former Vanderbilt teammates —but the wide-out lacks confidence and has been slow to digest the playbook. Davis has been inconsistent but could benefit from a move back to the slot position. Hester is as undependable as he is dangerous, and there’s an on-going debate as to how to get the most out of him. Iglesias was impressive at the team mini-camp in March, but the third-round draft pick has much to learn still.

The early over-under on how long it takes Cutler to wish he had Marshall around: Six snaps.

DoU: 10.0.

 

Strong-side linebacker: Hunter Hillenmeyer versus Nick Roach

The picture would become clearer if free agent Pisa Tinoisamoa signs with the team. Before the 27-year-old veteran was released earlier this month, he spent six seasons with the St. Louis Rams, the first with defensive coordinator Lovie Smith, now the Bears head coach. The Buffalo Bills and Philadelphia Eagles also have expressed interest in him.

Hillenmeyer comes off sports hernia surgery, the latest in a series of injuries that limited his effectiveness last season, when Roach moved ahead of him on the depth chart. Hillenmeyer was not physically able to take part in the mini-camp two months ago. Roach has 17 games of regular-season experience at the pro level.

Even if Tinoisamoa were to come aboard, he wouldn’t address the lack of size and strength at the position. In the absence of a physical presence at the strong side, the unit could be vulnerable against a power run game.

DoU: 8.0.

 

Free safety: Corey Graham versus Josh Bullocks

If Graham can make a successful transition from right cornerback, then this position could be a pleasant surprise, but that’s a big if at the moment.

Graham has excellent range and doesn’t shy away from contact. The question is, can the 23-year-old develop the instincts and know-how necessary to man the position? And if so, how long will it take to do so? He hasn’t played free safety on a regular basis since his high school days.

In Bullocks, a free-agent newcomer, the position has an experienced option if nothing else. The former second-round draft pick totaled 49 starts with the New Orleans Saints in four seasons, but his erratic pass coverage made him expendable.

Reserve strong safety Craig Steltz is said to be a possibility but probably as a last resort.

DoU: 6.0.

 

Right cornerback: Nathan Vasher versus D.J. Moore

Only months after talk that he would be released, Vasher has the inside track here. Now the 27-year-old has to show that he’s close to the same guy who was a 2005 Pro Bowl selection, not the broken-down one who was limited to 12 games because of hand and groin problems the last two seasons.

Vasher may be pushed by D.J. Moore, a fourth-round pick in the last draft. Moore is a gifted athlete who reminds general manager Jerry Angelo of Vasher at the start of his career. The flip side: At 5’9″, 192 pounds, he isn’t well-equipped for run support and press coverage.

Another possibility is veteran Roderick Hood, who was invited to a free-agent tryout after the Arizona Cardinals cut him last month. If holdover Trumaine McBride joined the crowd, then that means only one thing—trouble.

DoU: 5.5.

 

Offensive right tackle: Chris Williams versus Kevin Shaffer.

After a wasted rookie season, Williams appears to be the early favorite for the starter role, but he’ll have to earn it.    

In the 2008 draft, Williams was selected at the 14th pick despite what was thought to be a minor back problem. Then preseason camp started and he hobbled around like a man three times his age. Williams saw spot duty after his return from disc surgery, but in many respects, he’ll have to start over again.

Shaffer replaces veteran John St. Clair as the swing tackle, and the 29-year-old veteran wasn’t offered a three-year, $8 million contract to sit on the bench. The former Falcon and Brown has 78 games of regular-season experience, which makes him a reasonable alternative.

DoU: 2.0.

 

Chicago Bears, Beware: NFC North May Be Up

The NFC North has been sort of like that Family Guy character for awhile now. Know Meg Griffin, the self-conscious nerd who desperately wants to fit in with the crowd? Well, the NFC North hasn’t been cool since the 2001 season, when it had three teams with above-.500 records.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers were one of them, and that was so long ago, they’re not even part of it any more. The division had one Super Bowl champion in the last 23 years.

But through the wonders of the draft, the NFC North may be recognized as one of the more competitive divisions in the league before long. In addition to the Bears, the Packers and Vikings appear to be capable of eight-or-more eight victories. Even the Lions will be better if only because they can’t get worse. 

What it means for the Bears is, the division may not offer as many freebies as in recent years. Here’s what they’ll be up against next season:

Lions: Say this much for them—these are not cowardly Lions at least. “We will definitely make the playoffs this season.” feature back Kevin Smith promised on his Web site the other day. 

First, the Lions may want to win a game, any game, something they failed to do last season. This could be the year. The team expanded its talent base in the draft, in which it had three of the first 33 selections. 

At the No. 1 pick, the Lions rolled the dice on quarterback Matthew Stafford, who arrives with the expectations of a $78-million contract. Would it have been wiser to trade down in the order in return for multiple picks?

Talent evaluators are divided on Stafford as a future star, but at least he addresses a chronic need and wants to be there. 

The second selection was controversial as well. Tight end Brandon Pettigrew was the best player available at his position, but many considered linebacker Rey Maualuga to be an ideal fit for new defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz and his group.

The Bears will face a revamped pass defense that ranked 27th in the league and totaled all of one interception last season. Free-agent newcomer Phillip Buchanon will start at right cornerback, while second-round draft pick Louis Delmas is expected to take over the strong safety position.

Delmas has played to rave reviews in minicamp and already has drawn comparisons to Dale Carter, the former Pro Bowl cornerback. The front office also did well to sign linebacker Larry Foote, a former Steeler with Super Bowl experience.

Bottom line: The Lions haven’t won a playoff game in 18 years, and it may be awhile before they win another one. Still, the Bears shouldn’t take these guys lightly, because they have made improvements at both sides of the ball. 

Packers: General manager Ted Thompson wasted no time to beef up the defense, which ranked 26th against the run and 20th overall last season. In round one, tackle B.J. Raji was drafted to anchor the line in a newly adopted 3-4 alignment. Then Thompson made an bold move to get linebacker Clay Matthews in the same round. 

The secondary is as solid as any in the conference, what with Pro Bowlers Nick Collins, Al Harris, and Charles Woodson in place. Whether or not there will be enough heat on the passer is another question entirely. Other than linebacker Aaron Kampman, there is no established pass-rusher to speak of here.  

In wideouts Donald Driver and Greg Jennings and feature back Ryan Grant, the offense has plenty of talent at the skill positions. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has a year of experience as a starter, something that he didn’t have at this time last year. He won’t have to answer questions about Brett Favre nearly as often, either.

If there’s a problem spot, then it’s offensive tackle. Converted tight end Tony Moll may be better suited to play guard, while 32-year-old veteran Chad Clifton has seen better days. Rookies T.J. Lang and Jamon Meredith could be tested sooner than later.

Bottom line: Is it premature to call the season-opener against the Packers at Soldier Field a crucial one? Heck, no. The division race has the potential to be a two-team affair from start to finish.

Vikings: Paging Fran Tarkenton! Paging Joe Kapp! Paging Touchdown Tommy Kramer…! 

Paging Brett Favre?!

If the Vikings had an established quarterback—sorry, Tarvaris Jackson and Sage Rosenfels, but you don’t qualify at the moment—then they would rate as the division favorites. Enter Favre, he of the 22-10 record against the Bears in his career.

The Vikings say they have interest in Favre, and ever since the Packers pushed him out of town, Favre has wanted them. The question isn’t whether the 39-year-old can play at a reasonably high level.

Remember, last season Brett and the Jets got off to an 8-3 start amid talk that they could be the best team in the conference. Rather, the question is whether a torn biceps tendon that may require major surgery will allow him to be effective again. 

Otherwise, this team has a lot of the pieces necessary to be a serious playoff contender. Feature back Adrian Peterson is Gale Sayers all over again.

If rookie Percy Harvin causes as much trouble on the field as he has off of it, then he’ll give the offense another gamebreaker to complement Bernard Berrian at wide receiver. The o-line is solid except at right tackle, an area that was addressed with the selection of Phil Loadholt in round two of the draft.  

At the other side of the ball, tackles Pat and Kevin Williams stuff the run as well as any tandem around. Sackmaster Jared Allen has a non-stop motor off the edge. For years, cornerback Antoine Winfield has been one of the most underrated defenders in the league. 

Bottom line: Any mention of the F-word makes Bears fans shake in their sneakers. Chill, Chicago. It’s a good bet that, even if Favre is able to come back one more time, he won’t be around at the finish.

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