In reviewing the 2010 season for the Chicago Bears, despite falling short of reaching the Super Bowl, by early season expectations, the result can only be considered a success. Picked by many to finish third in the NFC North, Chicago posted an 11-5 overall record including a 5-1 mark against the division. While Chicago narrowly missed the opportunity to represent the NFC against Pittsburgh, the team just as easily could have been 0-2 against the Detroit Lions. 2011 is an important season for many reasons in Chicago and despite a contract extension for Lovie Smith, pressure abounds. Check out Chicago's keys to success for the upcoming season.
1. Offensive Line
It's no mystery that Mike Martz runs one of the most pass-happy offenses in the NFL and with a series of 7-step drops in the playbook, it puts a lot of pressure on the offensive line. To start the 2010 season the offensive line took a beating, most noticeably at the hands of the New York Giants who embarrassed the previously-unbeaten Bears on national TV. As the season went on, Chicago was able to put together a patchwork O-Line that kept Cutler relatively upright, but still struggled to get the push on rushing plays that made Matt Forte successful in his rookie season two years ago. With a late first round pick, many worried Chicago would not be able to address the greatest need area with a quality pick, but Gabe Carimi of Wisconsin fell to them at 29 and provides a steady tackle who should start from day one.
It's no mystery that Mike Martz runs one of the most pass-happy offenses in the NFL and with a series of 7-step drops in the playbook, it puts a lot of pressure on the offensive line. To start the 2010 season the offensive line took a beating, most noticeably at the hands of the New York Giants who embarrassed the previously-unbeaten Bears on national TV. As the season went on, Chicago was able to put together a patchwork O-Line that kept Cutler relatively upright, but still struggled to get the push on rushing plays that made Matt Forte successful in his rookie season two years ago. With a late first round pick, many worried Chicago would not be able to address the greatest need area with a quality pick, but Gabe Carimi of Wisconsin fell to them at 29 and provides a steady tackle who should start from day one.
2. Development of Receiving Corp
Johnny Knox and Devin Hester combine to be two of the fastest receivers in the game, probably rivaled only by DeShaun Jackson and Jeremy Maclin in Philadelphia. What the Bears' tandem does not have that the Eagles enjoy, is a lot of success and touchdown receptions from their primary receivers. While Knox and Hester have the type of open field moves and quickness to make defenders miss, they have struggled to get the ball in their hands in the first place. Hester's inability to run consistent routes and break out as a legitimate starter makes it difficult for Knox, Olsen and Forte to find open space as Hester does not command the safety help that a player of his speed should demand. The Bears will go as far as their defense takes them, but to avoid a myriad of tight games against mediocre teams, the Bears receivers will need to put more points on the board in 2011.
Johnny Knox and Devin Hester combine to be two of the fastest receivers in the game, probably rivaled only by DeShaun Jackson and Jeremy Maclin in Philadelphia. What the Bears' tandem does not have that the Eagles enjoy, is a lot of success and touchdown receptions from their primary receivers. While Knox and Hester have the type of open field moves and quickness to make defenders miss, they have struggled to get the ball in their hands in the first place. Hester's inability to run consistent routes and break out as a legitimate starter makes it difficult for Knox, Olsen and Forte to find open space as Hester does not command the safety help that a player of his speed should demand. The Bears will go as far as their defense takes them, but to avoid a myriad of tight games against mediocre teams, the Bears receivers will need to put more points on the board in 2011.
3. Health
Few teams in 2010, or any season for that matter, enjoyed the level of health like that of the Chicago Bears. With a team with an aging defense and a quarterback who suffered behind a beleaguered offensive line for the first half of the year, Chicago was surprisingly not bitten by the injury bug. All Pro linebacker Brian Urlacher logged a full season for the first time in years and he was joined by an uncharacteristically healthy defense. While Chicago is unlikely to be as fortunate in 2011, the ability to keep key players on the field is essential. Urlacher, Cutler, Peppers, Briggs, Kreutz and company provide a lot of firepower to the Bears roster, but there is not enough depth behind them, particularly at quarterback, to lose multiple star players.
4. Mike Martz and Jay Cutler Synergy
With a pass-first approach and the strong arm of Jay Cutler, fans should expect better than 188 passing yards per game from Chicago. While Matt Forte provides a solid running back for the Bears' offense, being able to pick up third and long situations was a struggle in 2010. While Lovie Smith received a contract extension after making a playoff run, Mike Martz did not enjoy the same job security and will have to prove himself this season. To be successful, Martz will need to get Cutler living within the reads of his system and the protection he needs to get the down field throws to open receivers.
Recommended Reading: Detroit Lions Offseason Confidential Green Bay Packers Offseason Confidential
Few teams in 2010, or any season for that matter, enjoyed the level of health like that of the Chicago Bears. With a team with an aging defense and a quarterback who suffered behind a beleaguered offensive line for the first half of the year, Chicago was surprisingly not bitten by the injury bug. All Pro linebacker Brian Urlacher logged a full season for the first time in years and he was joined by an uncharacteristically healthy defense. While Chicago is unlikely to be as fortunate in 2011, the ability to keep key players on the field is essential. Urlacher, Cutler, Peppers, Briggs, Kreutz and company provide a lot of firepower to the Bears roster, but there is not enough depth behind them, particularly at quarterback, to lose multiple star players.
4. Mike Martz and Jay Cutler Synergy
With a pass-first approach and the strong arm of Jay Cutler, fans should expect better than 188 passing yards per game from Chicago. While Matt Forte provides a solid running back for the Bears' offense, being able to pick up third and long situations was a struggle in 2010. While Lovie Smith received a contract extension after making a playoff run, Mike Martz did not enjoy the same job security and will have to prove himself this season. To be successful, Martz will need to get Cutler living within the reads of his system and the protection he needs to get the down field throws to open receivers.
Recommended Reading: Detroit Lions Offseason Confidential Green Bay Packers Offseason Confidential
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