Future of the O-Line

I've been meaning to write about the future of the offensive line for a while now, and the hiring of Mike Tice gives me a perfect opportunity to do so.

First, I have to say that I am very pleased with the Bears' most recent hiring. Tice is overly qualified and is a great football mind. Tice's experience as a head coach as well as his success as an O-line coach ensure that he understands the big picture of the offense in addition to being able to excel as a position coach on the line. Tice's resume takes precedence over any worries that his hiring will make it more difficult for the Bears to fill the offensive coordinator opening.

We will see if Tice endorses the Bears' idea to obtain tackles to convert into athletic guard; even if he doesn't, it's a good bet Tice will have a better idea of what to do with the likes of Frank Omiyale than his predecessor did.

Lovie Safe In Chicago

As you probably know by now the Chicago Bears relieved Ron Turner of his duties and Lovie Smith stepped down as de facto defensive coordinator. The Bears also gutted the offensive assistants.

Before we get into the Lovie debate, let's all breath a sigh of relief that Turner is finally out of Chicago.

Ahhhh

Glimpse of Greatness

Jay Cutler and company pulled out their crystal ball Monday night to show us what could have been by stunning the mighty Minnesota Vikings 36-30 in overtime. The offense was balanced and effective and the defense played better than anyone could expect considering the plague of injuries in the secondary. It was by far the best game Bears fans have seen all season and it showed what a terrible waste of talent this season has been.

Favre comes to town

Feels like the old days again with Favre visiting Chicago in the dead of winter. I don't think I'll hear much dissension if I say that Favre is the only thing giving the Bears a chance in this one. Everyone remembers the last time Favre played at Soldier Field: a 35-7 drubbing that lead to the unforgettable Favre quote, "It was cold as hell...I’m not going to lie to you. I haven’t thawed out yet." The forecast certainly looks promising.

We're Back

Apologies for my long silence, I've been busy with finals and holiday hoopla; I'm sure you understand. It's not like our Bears have been particularly inspiring anyway. So here's the plan, I'm gonna give a quick quip about each game I've missed covering.

New look on O-line

An injury to Orlando Pace helped usher in a change that some thought should have happened weeks ago; Chris Williams has taken over at left tackle. Kevin Shaffer will fill in on the right side, where is was originally brought in to play. With Omiyale reclaiming the left guard posisition, this line will look like many anticipated prior to the Pace signing. While there is not much left to be positive about this season, there is always hope that this new lineup shows some potential.

Eagles - Bears Recap and Looking Forward

By now you all know the outcome of last weeks game so I won't take to much time recapping. Here are a few thoughts and observations relating to the Eagles game and tomorrows matchup in Minnesota: