5 Reasons Why Chicago Bears Will Miss NFL Playoffs Again In 2013
5 Reasons the Chicago Bears will Miss the NFL Playoffs Again in 2013
Not long ago, the Chicago Bears were close to capturing their first Super Bowl title since 1986. This franchise made an appearance in the 2011 NFC Championship Game against their hated rival Green Bay Packers. Watching their quarterback go down in the following season led to a late collapse as poor backup play ensured Chicago would be at home. Tiebreakers did not work in this team’s favor as they were again left out after finishing with a 10-6 record.
Change has occurred in the front front office as owner Virginia McCaskey altered the organizational structure. Longtime GM Jerry Angelo was dismissed following the 2011 campaign. Former head coach Lovie Smith enjoyed success as well as support from players. Therefore, some individuals were angry upon his firing this year and blame was pointed at the media.
Winning comes from having talent, but possessing chemistry also helps. The Bears received direction from a well-respected veteran. His absence may create trouble when times get tough. There is also necessity to engage with their new head coach.
The NFC North has become a tough division overall. Green Bay transitioned well at quarterback as future Pro Football Hall of Fame signal-caller Brett Favre left in an ugly divorce. His replacement Aaron Rodgers is now elite while demonstrating every necessary trait to succeed at his position. Talent also does not present an issue for the three other teams. Experts have have mixed reviews when forecasting what is to come for these franchises. Despite some improvements from Chicago, I feel that these factors cause issues. Here are five reasons why the Bears will be sitting at home after the 2013 season.
Brian Urlacher’s Lost Leadership
Few linebackers in NFL history imposed their will like Brian Urlacher. Despite only posting 53 total tackles last season, he still served as someone who motivate his teammates. Urlacher was simply the heart and soul of his team and now someone else must assume this responsibility.
Buying into a New Head Coach
Replacement Marc Trestman enters his first NFL head coaching job after enjoying tremendous success in the CFL. Discussions have taken place as to whether his read-option offense would be installed. Recent reports put this idea to rest, which is good because this system does not fit quarterback Jay Cutler's skill set.
Offensive Question Marks
Although Chicago’s receiving corps feature great playmakers like Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffrey, and new tight end Martellus Bennett, there are still questions. Protecting Cutler has been an issue for years and despite some solid additions on the offensive line like Jermon Bushrod and Matt Slauson, this unit must grow together.
A Solid Division
Green Bay may have issues in their secondary, but Rodgers is so good that he is able to win shootouts. The Minnesota Vikings boast running back Adrian Peterson, but quarterback Christian Ponder must develop into a more consistent passer. I believe though that Peterson could carry them by himself again if he had to. Signing running back Reggie Bush offers the Detroit Lions balance to complement quarterback Matt Stafford and All-Pro receiver Calvin Johnson's passing attack.
Jay Cutler’s Erratic Play
Cutler is in a precarious position as he enters the last year of his contract. There is tremendous arm strength on display when this quarterback drops back to pass, and he has guided Chicago to success before. Ball security, however, could be a problem at times. When Cutler starts more than 10 games in one season, he has yet to throw for less than 14 interceptions. With GM Phil Emery looking to build his own squad, there could be a new starter in 2014 if Cutler does not thrive.
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