In sports some victories come at a price, in the case of Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler, his broken thumb that he would injure in the Bears 31-20 victory over the San Diego Chargers may be too steep.
Cutler would be replaced by fourth-year quarterback Caleb Henie.
With various media reports stating that Cutler being out for the remainder of the season, Chicago may have to rely more running back Matt Forte, wide receiver/return specialist Devin Hester and linebacker Brian Urlacher if the Bears hope to clinch a NFC wildcard.
While veteran free agent quarterbacks David Garrard and one-time Bears quarterback—and now former Denver Broncos quarterback—Kyle Orton are available, it appears that Chicago is going to rally around Henie.
Forte, who is in the last year of his rookie contract currently leads the NFL in all-purpose yards with 1,391. Forte also ranks fourth in the NFL in rushing with 926.
Hester, who is the all-time leader in kickoff returns, leads the NFL in return yards average at 21.2, and with Cutler sidelined, Hester’s role in special teams and offense will most likely increase.
If the Bears hope to take some pressure off of Hanie on offense, Hester’s returns are key in terms of giving the Bears good field position for Hanie to work with.
Chicago’s usually-stout defense will also be key down the stretch for the Bears wild card hopes.
Currently the Bears rank 13th overall in points allowed, but if there is a concern is that their passing defense is less than specular.
The Bears currently rank 25th in total yards allowed and 30th in passing yards per game at 270.7.
While Chicago does have a favorable schedule with games against Minnesota and Seattle, the Bears will still have to face the likes of Oakland’s Carson Palmer, Aaron Rodgers of Green Bay and the un-predictable dual threat of Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow.
While the Bears do have a quality back-up in Henie, don’t be too surprised if Bears general manger, Jerry Angelo is already on the phone with the agents of Garrard and Orton.
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