Fantasy Football Scouts


Bears Update

4for4.com Exclusive
by Ryan Chiaverini 
ABC News-7 Chicago
08/28/06
Through three pre-season games the Bears starting offense has yet to score a touchdown. Can you believe that?

That's not a typo.

Zero points provided by the first team and the Bears offense looks pathetic, much like last year.

I would be very weary of who you go with offensively on this team.

 RUNNING BACK
Thomas Jones finally played last week after missing virtually all of training camp. He had less than 10 yards on just a handful of carries. However it appears Jones has earned his starting job back over Cedrick Benson, at least for now. But I will say it doesn't matter much at this point because neither guy can see a hole, because they don't exist.


 QUARTERBACK
Rex Grossman has zero TDs this preseason but he's got a couple of picks though.

Last week the hometown crowd at Soldier Field booed Rex and chanted Griese when he got in the game. In turn, Griese did what Rex has been unable to, move the football.

Coach Lovie Smith continues to deny a QB controversy but when this team is 0-3 he may change his mind.

Griese has looked terrific in the pre-season. He's led the Bears on scoring drives every game and even though he's facing the #2 defense, I'm impressed with his accuracy and ability to get rid of the ball. If the Bears want to win and win now, he's the guy. We'll see how long it takes Lovie to realize that but it will happen (as I predicted before camp started).


 DEFENSE
Conversely the defense looks very solid once again. Every starter is back and they are making plays in the pre-season. Land them and you'll be making a great choice for your defense.

IDP note - S Mike Brown (left Achilles' tendon) is iffy right now for Week 1.


 WIDE RECEIVERS
Bernard Berrian and Mark Bradley (knee) are battling for the #2 spot. Both have speed to burn. Muhammad remains the clear #1.

The season starts in two weeks and I would be shocked if the Bears iron out their problems on offense by then. Much like last year, Chicago will rely heavily on the D to win games considering the offense is inept.