Chicago Tribune Writers predicted scores for this Sunday

Terry Bannon: Bears 30, Lions 13

Mike Downey: Bears 50, Lions 42

David Haugh: Bears 31, Lions 13

John Mullin: Bears 40, Lions 3

Melissa Isaacson: Bears 24, Lions 9

Vaughn McClure: Bears 28, Lions 10

Fred Mitchell: Bears 27, Lions 13

Rick Morrissey: Bears 35, Lions 14

Dan Pompei: Bears 33, Lions 23

Vasher back at full practice

Cornebacks Nathan Vasher (wrist) and Charles Tillman (shoulder) and receiver Marty Booker (knee) had full participation in practice Thursday, one day after being limited.

Defensive tackle Tommie Harris (knee) returned to practice in a limited role after missing Wednesday's session.

Linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer continues to be limited coming off right thumb surgery. He is not expected to play Sunday vs. Detroit.

Look for Nick Roach and Jamar Williams to get a lot of playing time this Sunday.

Punter Brad Maynard was also limited in Thursday's practice.

Devin Hester angry at himself for having no kick returns for score

Devin Hester - The best bloopers are here
The third-year wide receiver and Pro Bowl returner has gone all seven games this season without taking into the end zone.

His last TD return came on a kickoff against New Orleans in the 2007 season finale.

Hester said this yesterday after practice:

“I kind of put all the pressure on myself and say that it is kind of my fault that the return game is not the way that (it was)."

“I put all pressure on me because at the end of the day, I’m the one with the ball in my hands. I have to be the one to figure it out and pick up the slack. If something breaks down, that’s why they rely on me."

“As far as the return game, I have to be the one to step up and make big plays. It hasn’t been the way it’s been, so I kind of take some of the blame for it.”

Hester is two TD returns short of Brian Mitchell’s NFL career record of 13 regular-season TDs on punts or kickoffs.

Hester actually has 13 total returned kicks for scores, but one came on a missed field goal and the other was a postseason kickoff return to open the 2007 Super Bowl.

Hester hasn’t had a punt return longer than 9 yards since the opener.

His long kickoff return is 51 yards against Philadelphia, and he hasn’t had another longer than 28 yards.

Lovie Smith on Hester's career:

“The type of career he has had so far, he assumes he is going to score every time he touches the football."

“I can see why a guy like that would think that way, but it has been a lot more than just Devin. We need to do some things to help him out—mainly, block better to give him more opportunities. It’s just a matter of time. The second half of the season, Devin like the rest of our football team, can make a lot of improvement and I expect that to happen.”

Many people have said Hester is tired because of his extended play as a WR, where he has 18 catches and two touchdowns.

To be honest, I’m not tired when it’s time to return kickoffs and punts, so I wouldn’t say that’s a reason why it’s not like that."

Hopefully Hester will return one this weekend against the Lions, so he can be in a great mood.

Just kidding, hopefully he improves as a key offensive weapon for Kyle "Neckbeard" Orton.

Bears O-line playing surprisingly well

John St. Clair on the offensive line perform:

“We don’t listen to what anybody says, we try to focus on ourselves. That’s what we did in training camp. We try to play hard and our practice carries over into the game.

That’s what we’ve been doing. We believe in each other. We’re a bunch of humble guys. We just want to work hard and win. That’s what has carried us this far.”

These Guys look good eh?

The approach clearly has worked.

The offensive line, which also includes left guard Josh Beekman, center Olin Kreutz, right guard Roberto Garza and right tackle John Tait—has played a prominent role in the resurgence of an offense that has helped the Bears average 28.0 points per game, tied for the second most in the NFL.

Matt Forte on the offensive line:

“They’re playing great, they’re playing ball like they’re supposed to, protecting the quarterback and opening up running lanes. That’s what their job is, and they’re doing it.”

Ron Turner on John St. Clair's emergence:

“He’s proven a lot of people wrong, those questions more were from the outside than they were inside. A lot of guys in that locker room and the coaches had a lot of confidence in John.

“He’s played very good football for us. He’s a great worker and we’re not surprised at how he’s playing. I think everyone on the outside is. He’s played quite a bit for different guys, and whenever he’s gotten in to play, he’s always been productive and he’s played well.”

Bears sign rookie FB Collins to practice squad

Jed Collins: SI Grade, 3.25
Position: FB

School: Washington State
Conference: Pac-10
Ht., Wt.: 6-1.5, 255
40 Time: 4.85

SI.com Report on Jed Collins

BIOGRAPHY: All-Conference selection as a senior when he became a full-time starter and posted career-high numbers of 52/512/3.

POSITIVES: Sure-handed pass-catching tight end with an improving game. Quickly gets into routes, nicely adjusts to the errant throw, and uses his frame to shield away opponents. Gives effort blocking, stays with assignments, and works hard to produce.

NEGATIVES: Mostly a short-yardage pass-catcher and lacks the speed to break free downfield. Lacks footwork in pass protection, bends at the waist, and possesses marginal playing strength.

ANALYSIS: Collins did a terrific job in his first season as a starter and he could find a spot in the NFL as a backup.

PROJECTION: Late Seventh Round

2007 Receiving Statistics
Receptions- 52
Receiving Yards- 512
Yards Per Reception- 9.85
Touchdowns- 3

2007 Rushing Statistics
Rushing Yards-3
Attempts-1
Average Per Rush- 3
Touchdowns- 0

You can always have someone behind FB Jason McKie.

I don't know why they run so many important plays to McKie, he really isn't very good.

Hopefully Collins will work his way on to the team

News about my website

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Thank you all.

Bears Injury Report for 10/29/08

Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris was the only player not to participate in practice Wednesday, according to the report.

Marty Booker (knee), Hunter Hillenmeyer (thumb), Brandon Lloyd (knee), Danieal Manning (hamstring), Charles Tillman (shoulder), and Nathan Vasher (wrist) were all limited in practice.

Bears' Hillenmeyer could miss Lions game with a hand injury

• A Chicago Bears Source says LB Hillenmeyer had surgery and CB Vasher is still day-to-day.

Bears cornerback Nathan Vasher remained sidelined Monday, nearly four weeks after surgery on his right wrist, and now strong-side linebacker Hunter Hillenmeyer is out with a hand injury.

Vasher sat out during a short workout at Halas Hall, as did Hillenmeyer, who had surgery last week on his thumb, a source close to the player said.

There is no timetable for his return, and he has not been ruled out for Sunday's game against Detroit.

Vasher how you doin?

''I'm doing good, still just going day-to-day, and hopefully by the end of the week I'll be able to see.''

Lovie Smith had this to say about Vasher's starting job:

''Each snap you're earning a job, you have to do something to say that you deserve to be out on the field. Nathan Vasher is a good player. A lot has been said about him and is he starting and all of this. Nate's one of our guys. He's going to help us win a lot of games around here.''

Vasher seems upset at reporters:

''Are you guys starting something?" "Oh, my gosh. It's the middle of the season. I don't know what you guys are talking about. You tell me. I'm always content with whatever my role is on the team. I just want the team to win.''

Since Hillenmeyer might not play, Nick Roach and Jamar Williams practiced with the first team and worked with coach Lloyd Lee worked for 20 minutes after practice.

Hey Brandon Lloyd you gonna play this weekend?

''I don't know. I'm not going to play unless I am 100 percent.''

Other important injury updates:

Nickel back Danieal Manning (hamstring) returned to practice after sitting out two weeks. Cornerback Charles Tillman (shoulders), wide receiver Marty Booker and defensive tackle Tommie Harris (left knee) sat out.

Bears not willing to give the game to the 0-7 Lions

What can Brown (AKA Mike Brown) do for you?

“They’ve been in pretty much every game, there’s been a couple of them where they weren’t in them, but everyone understands that this is a professional football league and honestly any team can beat any team on any given day. That’s just part of how the league is set up, so we’re going to be prepared to play them and we want to come out with a victory.”

The Bears insist that the Lions aren’t the same team they drubbed 34-7 at Ford Field on Oct. 5. Since that game, Detroit has new starters at quarterback (Dan Orlovsky for Jon Kitna), running back (Rudi Johnson for Kevin Smith) and wide receiver (Shaun McDonald for Roy Williams).

Lovie what did you have to say about the Lions?

“They are a much improved ballclub since we played them last, the Washington Redskins are a pretty good football team. Except for a few big plays, Detroit gave them everything they wanted [on Sunday].”

In the Bears' win in Detroit this season, Kyle Orton established career highs with 24 completions, 334 yards and a 121.4 passer rating while tossing two touchdowns and no interceptions.

Defensively, Chicago scored a touchdown on Charles Tillman’s 26-yard interception return, registered four sacks and held the Lions to 185 total yards, including just 67 in the first half.

The other Brown (Alex Brown) speaks:

“If we expect it to be like last time, we won’t win, we’ve got to understand that they’re going to be hungry to come in here and beat us. We’ve got to come ready to play.”

Nate The Great, what do you think?

“Every team we play has an opportunity to be good, we don’t really go by a team’s record. Detroit has played a lot of teams close but hasn’t been able to close it out.”

Thought for the Bears:

As 49ers Head Coach and former Chicago Bear Mike Singletary would say "we can't afford to give them the game, were not a charity."

Time to Bring your A Game

The Bears are preparing for their second of three straight home games and the second in a stretch of four of six contests against NFC North opponents. Chicago (4-3) is tied for first place atop the division with the Packers (4-3), who visit the undefeated Titans (7-0) on Sunday.

Coach Smith, any final thoughts?

“I think football really begins when you get to November, that’s when the separation really begins, and we want to be one of those teams that is contending in the end.”

Daunte Culpepper Visits with the Detroit Lions

It looks like the Chiefs want to build their offense around QB Tyler Thigpen, who looked pretty good last week against the NY Jets, since they officialy pulled out of the race for recently retired QB Daunte Culpepper.

If the Lions are considering signing Culpepper, I’m not sure how much sense that makes, unless they think he can help them next year.

The Lions are 0-7. They need to win to avoid an 0-16 season. They just had the first non-sellout in Ford Field history. They need to sell some tickets.

But there is a reason Culpepper is still available. His skills and salary demands didn’t make him a good fit for anyone else.

And the Lions need to look at their young quarterbacks. Dan Orlovsky, a fifth-round pick in 2005, just had his first three NFL starts.

Drew Stanton, a second-round pick last year, just started getting the first regular-season practice reps of his NFL career.

Booth Newspapers reported Culpepper's visit to Detroit. Profootballtalk.com received an e-mail from Culpepper in which he denied a Fox report he asked the Chiefs for a two-year deal with a 2009 payment of $10 million, confirmed he had canceled his visit to Kansas City and said he was in nego

Power Rankings: Bears are 10th on Yahoo Sports and 12th on ESPN

ESPN ranks the Bears 12th thats +1 from last week.

They had this to say about the Bears: Key to the Bears' second half: Can embattled defensive coordinator Bob Babich coax some improvement from his group?

Yahoo Sports ranks the Bears 10th thats +1 from last week.

They had this to say about the Bears: Hey, Lovie, miss Ron Rivera much?

This just shows the Bears are a good team and they could have been up with the Titans if they didn't lose three games by a combined eight points.

What is the Bears record coming off the bye week?

Since the NFL instituted bye weekends in 1990, the Bears are 12-7 (.632) following the weekend off.

That ranks as the fourth best record in the NFC behind the Eagles (16-4), Vikings (15-4) and Cowboys (14-5).

The Bears have won two straight contests following its bye week, defeating the Raiders 17-6 last season in Oakland and the 49ers 41-10 in 2006 at Soldier Field.

Will Nathan Vasher Be Ready for the Lions Game?

Will Nathan Vasher be ready for the next game coach Smith?

“We don’t have to decide those things right now,” Smith said. “We have plenty of spots for a good football player. We would like four or five good cornerbacks who could play, for or five good safeties at every position. We would find a way to play them all.”

What did you have done Nathan?

“I just had to get medicine,” Vasher said. “My hand swelled up a little bit. That was basically it.”
When he will return and what his role will be remained unclear.

“I’m feeling pretty good,” Vasher said. “I had a chance to run around a little bit today. I’m still day-to-day to see how everything works out for the next week or so.”

Who are the starters now Mr. Brown?

“Starters are starters for a reason,” safety Mike Brown said. “Obviously, they earned those positions, but at the same time, our two corners (Graham and Kevin Payne) played very well. Then, when you start going down to your last corner and then you’re asking Rashied Davis to get ready, that’s when you start worrying a little bit.”

Tommie Harris on a TV Show?

Yes, it's true the Bears DT appeared on CBS's Criminal Minds last Wednesday.

He played the role of the father.

I guess the producer of the show is a big Chicago Bears fan, from what I have heard.

For, Tommie Harris to be on a TV, but not playing football is weird for anybody, maybe he has a future in Hollywood.

He can partner up with Redskins DE Jason Taylor and they both can dance there ways to Hollywood.

I think it's pretty cool that he is on a TV show, but I haven't seen it yet, so it might be a terrible performance.

Who knows if the guy can act.

From what we saw against the Vikings was the old Tommie Harris, making big plays when his name was called.

Good work Tommie.

S Terrence Holt Signed to Active Roster

Terrence Holt was signed by the Chicago Bears today, who officialy put rookie CB Zack Bowman on injured reserve.

Don't worry Bowman will be back next year and he will contribute to this defense.

Terrence Holt is a free safety who was waived by the Panthers at the end of the pre-season.

Holt has started 43 of 69 games since coming into the league as a fifth-round draft pick of Detroit in 2003.

Holt spent four seasons with the Lions before signing as an unrestricted free-agent with Arizona in 2007.

He started all 16 games last season and led Cardinals defensive backs with 75 tackles before they released him last winter.

Holt has eight career interceptions.

He will try to help shore up depth in an injury-depleted secondary and potentially on special teams.

Holt is the brother of Rams WR Torry Holt.

Terrence Holt is 28 years old and still has some football in him.

He looks to be a good addition if Daniel Manning is out for a long period of time.

He will likely take the spot left by injured Brandon McGowan.

Bears ranked 13 on ESPN Power Rankings and 11th on Yahoo Sports

This week 13, last week (20)
Bears
4-3-0
The Bears are overcoming their defensive issues with, yes, a powerful passing offense. (KS)

The Bears are ranked 11th on Yahoo Sports behind the three teams they lost to, Atlanta, Tampa Bay, and Carolina

Zackary Bowman injured, surgery may end season

The Bears' run of misfortune in the secondary continued in Sunday's win as rookie defensive back Zackary Bowman, whose interception sealed the 48-41 win over the Vikings, suffered a biceps injury that will require surgery and could end his season after just one game.

Bowman, who also scored his first NFL points by recovering a muffed punt in the end zone, will undergo surgery before the Bears' Nov. 2 game against the Detroit Lions.

The rookie put on an impromptu clinic in toughness by convincing the coaching staff he could go back in after a head injury to cornerback Corey Graham and making the Bears' fourth interception of the game.

"To be able to play through that, definitely playing with pain and close to an injury, that said a lot for him on his first game," coach Lovie Smith said.

Devin Hester Injured

Chicago Bears kick returner and wide receiver Devin Hester injured a quadriceps muscle in the third quarter Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings and had to leave the game.

It was not immediately known how Hester got hurt, but he did return the second half kickoff and was initially charged with a fumble before video review reversed the call and gave the ball to the Bears.

Hester had two catches for 22 yards in the first half. On Minnesota's second kickoff of the third quarter, Hester was not back to return the kick.

Hester scored 11 TDs on kick returns during his first two regular seasons, seven on punts and four more on kickoffs.

He also returned a missed field goal 108 yards in 2006 and ran back the opening kickoff in the Super Bowl against Indianapolis in February 2007 for a touchdown.

He has not returned a kick for a score this season, but has two touchdown catches.

Bears Win a Wild One Over The Vikings 48-41

Your probably asking yourself how did the 2008 Chicago Bears score 48 points and how did they give up 41 points.

The Bears looked great offensively today.

Kyle Orton had this to say after completing 21 of 32 passes for two touchdowns and a quarterback rating of 114.5:

We’ve got a group of guys who are together, it doesn’t matter what happens outside that huddle. It’s everybody inside the huddle working for a common goal and we work together very well.”

When was the last time the Bears scored this many points?

The last time the Chicago Bears scored this many points was 1986 and the last time the Bears and Vikings combined for that many points was in 1961.

The Bears have never won, while giving up 41 points.

Matt Forte ran the ball 20 times for only 56 yards, but did get a 2nd quarter touchdown.

Even though the Bears gave up 41 points, they forced 4 turnovers, had two huge late game sacks and two special team touchdowns.

The interceptions were made by young corner-backs, who were filling in for Vasher, Tillman and Manning.

Trumaine McBride, Corey Graham, Zack Bowman and Kevin Payne all had an interception.

Bowman played in his first game ever today and he also scored on a muffed punt by the Vikings.

I thought at the end of the game the Bears were going to blow it but Tommie Harris came up with his biggest play all year, by sacking Gus Frerotte on a 3rd down.

Injury News:

Devin Hester injured a quadriceps muscle in the third quarter on a kickoff return.

Thank Goodness for the Bye Week:

Bears fans and Bears players should be thankful for the bye week because they need there secondary to get healthy and hopefully Devin Hester and Brandon Lloyd won't be out for much longer.

Top Performers:

1) Greg Olsen- he came up huge today.

2) Kyle Orton- he looked great in the no-huddle and if Marty caught two perfectly thrown balls, Marty would have had three touchdown receptions.

3) Corey Graham- another big game for the young corner-back.

4) Zack Bowman- he looked great in his debut.

Non-Performers:

1) Adewale Ogunleye- he was pretty invisible today.

2) John St. Clair- he messed up on a Jared Allen sack, forcing Orton to fumble.

When the offense plays like that they are tough to stop.

They know they should be 7-0, but the Packers crushed the Colts today and are tied with the Bears for first place in the NFC North.

The Bears come back after the bye November 2 to take on the Lions in Chicago.

Then they take on the undefeated Titans at home the week after that.

Look for the Bears to take control of the NFC North after they get rest after their bye.

Did you Know? 10/16/08

Rex Grossman and Kyle Orton's first season as a starter statistics after six games are very similar.

Rex Grossman completed 107 of 189 passes for 1,387 yards with 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions in 2006, while Kyle Orton has completed 122 of 198 passes for 1,386 yards with eight TDs and four interceptions this year.

It’s pretty amazing that the two quarterbacks are separated by only one yard after six games.

Orton looks like the better the Qb right now, but Grossman led the Bears to the Super Bowl.

Who knows Orton could lead them to the promise land too.

Why did Bernard Berrian Ever Leave the Bears for the Vikings?

Bernard Berrian said he wanted the Bears' quarterback situation to be settled and didn't want to go through a Kyle Orton-Rex Grossman battle.

But he got a six-year, $42 million deal with the Vikings.

This offer blew away the Bears offer, which was closer to $5.5 million annually.

The Bears had room to put the franchise tag on him because they're about $9 million under the salary cap.

''I knew they weren't going to come out of the pocket and pay for that,'' he said.

Berrian stopped short of calling Chicago a graveyard for receivers, as his former starting mate Muhsin Muhammad did, but he knows where Moose was coming from.

''It was hard being a receiver over there,'' he said. ''There was so much -- let me see, what's the right word to say -- it was a carousel. It was a quarterback carousel. So it's hard to get rhythm with a quarterback and really know what you're going into and what you're looking at.''

Berrian had 30 catches for 408 yards and no scores through six games with the Bears last year.

Asked if he has been surprised by a Bears offense that ranks 13th in the league, Berrian said: ''A little bit. But I've always said [Orton's] style of play, it enables them to win easier."

''I still thought Rex was going to be the guy. That's the way it just worked out. I always thought the way Kyle managed the game, it enables them really to let the defense win the game. They've been playing good football on both sides of the ball, so it's been even better.''

We all know Berrian left for the big time money because his agent is Drew Rosenhaus.

But, Berrian told reporters that he left because of the QB problems in Chicago, but obviously there not better in Minnesota.

They would be a great team with Berrian still at wide receiver, but they were not willing to pay the money to a guy, who wasn't that great.

Good luck this Sunday against your former team Bernard.

Injury Report From Today's Practice and What It Means For Sunday's Game

Bears Injuries:

Probable
Matt Forte, hand Trumaine McBride, shoulder

Questionable

Nathan Vasher, wrist, Danieal Manning, hamstring , Charles Tillman, shoulder, Marty Booker, back, Rashied Davis, knee, Israel Idonije, ankle, Brad Maynard, left hamstring, Tommie Harris, knee, Brandon Lloyd,knee, Marcus Harrison, ankle, Nick Roach, shoulder, Marcus Hamilton, heel.

Expect Brandon Lloyd (knee) and Charles Tillman (shoulder) to be out for 2-3 weeks more.

If Nathan Vasher and Charles Tillman are out for a long period of time, that could be awful for the Bears, who also have Daniel Manning and Marcus Hamilton recovering from injuries.

The signing of Zack Bowman is strictly for depth.

The Bears love last years 5th round pick Corey Graham, he is really impressing his coaches.

But, the Bears need some more help on defense, because they are really struggling with pass defense lately.

They can live with out Brandon Lloyd for a while, but it wouldn't hurt if he came back to the lineup.

The Bears have ten games left and look for them to really play hard this weekend against the Vikings, a division rival.

Are you Ready for the Orange Out This Sunday?

In 2005 the Bears wore their "alternative" orange jerseys, defeated the 49ers with help from a 108-yard return of a missed field goal and went to the playoffs.

In 2006 they wore the orange jerseys, again in a victory over San Francisco, and went all the way to the Super Bowl.

Last year they lost to the Lions at home, with the help of Brian Griese's three interceptions.

Just kidding, he didn't help us.

The Bears they will wear the orange jerseys again, this time in a game against the Vikings that they view as critical to their playoff hopes.

Bowman on the active roster, and Graham Shines OnceAgain

The Bears moved rookie cornerback Zackary Bowman from the practice squad to the active roster, signing him to a four-year contract.

Bowman was a fifth-round pick in the 2008 draft out of Nebraska.

For the second straight game, his first two NFL starts, cornerback Corey Graham led the Bears in tackles, with 12 that included 11 solos.

WR Help?

Wide receiver John Broussard will be signed to the practice squad.

He's a San Jose State product like Rashied Davis and was a seventh-round pick by Jacksonville in 2007, when he caught four passes for 126 yards and a touchdown.

Terrence Metcalf suspended by the NFL for four games

The NFL has suspended Bears guard Terrence Metcalf for four games for violating the league’s policy on anabolic steroids and related substances.

Metcalf lost his job to second year pro Josh Beekman this offseason and hasn't played in any game this season.

The seventh-year pro from Mississippi is eligible to return to the team on Monday, Nov. 17 after missing games against the Vikings, Lions, Titans and Packers.

Metcalf has appeared in all six games this season.

He started five games at left guard last year, but struggled and was benched after playing with a broken hand.

“It’s something that happens,” coach Lovie Smith said. “He’s not the first guy in the league to get suspended for this reason, and that’s about as much time as we can spend on it. The league says he’s suspended four games. That’s what we’ll go with. … When you make a mistake like that, there are consequences that go with it.”

Will Metcalf still be a Bear when the suspension ends?

“We see it that way,” Smith said. “I don’t see why he wouldn’t be. It’s a four-game suspension, and that’s how we’re looking at it. Hopefully, we can get it back.”

Metcalf’s agent Jeffrey Nalley did not immediately return a call seeking comment.

Cowboys Star Romo Out Up to Four Weeks

I have been writing mostly about the Chicago Bears, since I am such a big Bears fan, but this story was a shock to me and many Cowboys fans today.

It has been reported that Tony Romo will be out up to four weeks with a broken pinkie finger.

Romo hurt the pinkie on his throwing hand in overtime against the Arizona Cardinals last Sunday.

That means, 40 year old veteran Brad Johnson will be the starter and that is not good for a team that has been struggling the last two weeks.

Brad Johnson hasn't started since 2006, when he was a starter for the Minnesota Vikings.

Brad Johnson had this to say about Romo's injury:

"Obviously, it’s unfortunate for Tony to have to go through something like this. He’ll recover quick, he has a great attitude about it, at this time, it’s really just important for the offense especially to just kind of catch on to my snap count, and the way we manage the huddle. … I’m excited about the opportunity, worked hard to get here.”

Coach Wade Phillips had this to say:

"Romo won’t need surgery on his finger, and the timing of his return depends on how fast that heals.”

“Obviously, he had trouble throwing the ball that last series in overtime."

Linebacker Bradie James had this say about Romo:

"Wow!”

“We’ve got to play relentless football now without our signal caller, our leader, our captain on the offensive side, that’s the thing about a season; you never know what can happen. You hope you are playing some real good ball when things go down, so here we are and now we’ve got to make some adjustments and move on.”

Greg Ellis had comments about Romo as well:

“It’s going to be Brad to go in there and prove that he’s not just here for the ride, he’s part of this thing,” every opportunity I’ve seen Brad step in on other teams, he’s able to hold it down and get it done.”

Other Stuff

Of course Terrell Owens had no comment on Romo's injury.

Romo fumbled the ball three times in the loss to Arizona.

Brad Johnson's Career Stats:

In his second year as Cowboys backup, Johnson has seen brief time in Dallas, going 7-for-11 for 79 yards.

Johnson has completed 2,627 of 4,248 career passes (61.8 percent) for 28,627 yards with 164 touchdowns and 117 interceptions.

He passed for 2,750 yards in 2006 with nine TDs and 15 interceptions—only the third time in his career with more interceptions than TDs.

What's the Future look like without Romo?

They could be in last place by the time Romo comes back to the line-up.

Brad Johnson is old and I don't know how much he has left in him.

Look for Terrell Owens to become very angry very soon.

The Cowboys have former Jet and Viking Brooks Bollinger as a backup to Brad Johnson.

Other Key Injuries:

The Cowboys didn't only lose Tony Romo to injury, they also lost rookie RB Felix Jones (strained hamstring) and P Mat McBriar (foot).

Bears-Falcons: Atlanta Rips the Game from Chicago's Hearts

How do the Chicago Bears allow a catch like that? How do they allow Michael Jenkins to get out of bounds?

How do the Bears call a FB dive on a 3rd-and-1 with eight minutes to go?

How do they squib kick it with 11 seconds to go?

Those are the questions many Bears fans are asking right now after a 22-20 stunning loss to the Atlanta Falcons.

We all know what happened.

Jason Elam kicked a 48-yard field goal with one second remaining on the clock.

The playcalling was awful for most of the game.

Kyle Orton ran the offense to perfection in two important drives in the second half.

Jason McKie is not the answer on a 3rd-and-1, either give it to Forte or run a QB sneak.

Ron Turner should be ashamed of himself.

The squib kick was really dumb because if you simply kicked it to Norwood, that would have been the last play of the game and it was unlikely he would of taken it to the house.

Lovie and all the coaches are to blame for this loss.

Players of the Game

1) Corey Graham played a great game filling in for Nathan Vasher.

2) Kyle Orton ran the offense perfectly.

3) Rashied Davis's TD catch was unbelievable.

4) Devin Hester really is a wide receiver.


Disappointments of the Game:

1) Brian Urlacher was invisible the whole game.

2) Special Teams.

3) Marcus Hamilton on the last play of the game.


What Now?

The Bears better hope they get either Nathan Vasher or Charles Tillman back soon, because they were getting beat all day by Falcons QB Matt Ryan.

They have a must-win game against the Vikings at Soldier Field next week.


What Disappointed Me the Most

The Bears didn't record one sack today.

They allowed the Falcons to get down the field through the entire game.

They allowed Jerious Norwood to return it into their own territory at the end of the game and got lucky that Jason Elam missed a 38-yard field goal.


Good Stuff

They run defense allowed only 57 yards from RB Michael Turner.


Bad Stuff

The linebackers were almost invisible today, with an exception of Hunter Hillenmeyer.


Other Stuff
The Bears' receivers played very well today.

The Alex Brown fumble that was overturned in the first half was an iffy call, and the Tommie Harris recovered fumble was very confusing.

Tommie Harris had to hear a whistle for him to get rid of the ball, but I don't know.

The Bears' secondary is really banged up.

Daniel Manning, Trumaine McBride, and Peanut Tillman all left the game with injuries.

My uncle Tivo'd the game and told me that the referees didn't start the play clock until Matt Ryan threw the ball.

If this game were in Chicago, the Bears would have won, because the referees would have started the clock when the ball was snapped.


Quote of the day

DT Dusty Dvoraceck said, "We usually never allow so many third-down conversions to be successful. That is our specialty and we didn't perform today. We couldn't get off the field."


What Now, pt. two?

The Bears are now in a bad spot.

If the Packers win, they will be tied with the Vikings and Bears for first place.

Next week is a must-win before the bye week for the Bears.


Did You Know?

The Lions had a pass-interference penalty called on the them at the end of the game, which set up a game-winning field goal by the Vikings.

The referees gave the Vikings that game.


Where the Bears Should Be?

Fans and sportscasters came into this season expecting the Bears to not be very good this season.

They have been one of the most surprising teams in the NFL.

I knew they would be a good team, and they know they should be 6-0.

Instead, they're 3-3, and they have lost three games by a combined eight points.

They need to learn how to finish games.

Highlights of Chicago Bears Game against Atlanta

http://www.nfl.com/videos?videoId=09000d5d80b90585&campaign=ec0009

Mark Anderson Makes A Bold Prediction

After last week's 34-7 win against the Detroit Lions, the Bears were 3-2 and in first place in the NFC North.

DE Mark Anderson, who lost his job to veteran Alex Brown said this after the win in Detroit ''We're heading to the Super Bowl, I really feel that way.''

That is just a dumb thing to say, a total jinx.

Whenever you make a prediction like that, it never works out well, but I hope he is right with his prediction.

I can see where he is coming from, but he needs to keep that stuff to himself and the team.

Last season Bears players made predictions before the season started that they were heading to Super Bowl 42.

That clearly didn't work out.

I hope your right Mark Anderson, if your not it could be bad.

Bearsbacker.com features a Brief Review of fellow Chicago Bears blog (ChicagoBearsNews.com)

Calling all Chicago Bears fans!

Have you ever had something to say about the Bears? What Bears fan hasn't? Have you ever wanted to start your own blog about the Chicago Bears? Now is the time to get online and start contributing to the blogosphere.

ChicagoBearsNews.com(http://www.chicagobearsnews.com/) offers all the tools you need to start your own Bears blog. Joining is free and easy. All you need is a valid email address and an internet connection.

Once you join you can create your own profile page, upload an image to represent yourself, and start blogging. Their blogging interface is easy to use with a nice intuitive MS Word style text editor with a spell checker for you to write your blog entries in. Once you've posted your blog entry other members of the community can comment on it, and of course you can comment on their comments.

There are a lot of other more advanced features too, like creating a photo library of all your best Bears pictures, adding other bloggers to your "friends list," adding a "widget" (a small bit of html code from a 3rd party which can display Bears information) and adding video to your blog posts through a service like YouTube.

You can also roam around the site and read other people's Bears blog posts and comment on them. There is also a recently started Bears forum where you can banter about the Bears with other fans.

Looking at the current blog posts displayed on the home page it's clear that while not everyone is a professional writer, nearly all of the people using the sites are die hard Bears fans.

All-in-all ChicagoBearsNews.com offers a great online experience for Bears fans. If you have a moment check it out.

Injury Report for Game vs Atlanta

Wide receiver Brandon Lloyd did not practice all week and is listed as doubtful with a sprained knee.

Defensive tackle Anthony Adams (ankle), linebacker Nick Roach (shoulder) and cornerback Nathan Vasher (wrist) are listed as questionable, and defensive tackle Marcus Harrison (knee) and punter Brad Maynard are listed as probable. ...

Nathan Vasher, inactive at Detroit, said Thursday on his Comcast SportsNet show there was a "100 percent" chance he will play at Atlanta.

Did You Know? 10-9-08

When Devin Hester scores a TD, the Bears record is 10-2.

Hester has two touchdowns so far this season for the Bears, both are receiving touchdowns.

Wednesday Bears practice update: Lloyd, Adams, Roach out

Bears receiver Brandon Lloyd (knee), nose tackle Anthony Adams (ankle) and linebacker Nick Roach (shoulder) are being held out of Wednesday's practice.

Defensive tackle Tommie Harris rejoined the team after a one-game suspension and is limited in practice. Cornerbacks Nathan Vasher (wrist) and Charles Tillman (shoulder) also are limited.

The Bears sign backup punter to Practice Squad

The Bears signed punter Zac Atterberry to the practice squad this morning to replace guard Tyler Reed, who was released

Atterberry was on the team through the summer and averaged 41.5 yards in the preseason with a net of 39.5.

He has had four workouts since, including one in Green Bay on Monday.

''All I can tell you is they're bringing him in and they're going to put him through a fire drill,'' said Rob Sheets, Atterberry's agent. ''They want to see what they have in him and make sure he is at where he was when he left.''

It's a curious move considering teams rarely have two punters around.

Brad Maynard, who missed a game last season with a pulled groin muscle, leads the league with 15 punts inside the 20-yard line and has had only 11 of his 31 kicks returned.

Signing Atterberry might be in preparation for a potential emergency down the road.

Tommie Harris expected to play against Atlanta

Tommie Harris returned to work Monday, and the Bears expect the Pro Bowl defensive tackle to play Sunday at Atlanta.

Tommie Harris has missed the last two games, the first because of his banged-up left knee and the second for a one-game suspension.

''I've heard a lot about the message,'' coach Lovie Smith said.

''No message has been sent from me. The message is the same message for everyone: There are rules, and everyone has to go by the rules. And Tommie or anyone else, it's left up to them. If they want to be a part of the team, you're going to go by these rules. It's as simple as that.
''We're going to go back to work. I assume everyone that's here wants to do that. They know what happens if you don't.''

Look for Israel Idonije to get big money some time soon

Israel Idonije started again in Tommie Harris' place this Sunday at Detroit and recorded three solo tackles and a pass deflection.

Idonije recorded a sack the week before against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Although Idonije is only signed through next season, don't be shocked if he makes the list of players whose contract the Bears want to extend.

Idonije turns 28 next month and seems to improve with more responsibility.

He has gone from a part-time end and special-teams player to having a defined role at tackle.

He moved from defensive end to defensive tackle and gained about 35 pounds this offseason.

Both head coach Lovie Smith and general manager Jerry Angelo have said a team never can have enough quality defensive tackles.

Lovie on Israel Idonije's play this season:

''Israel has taken advantage of every opportunity we've given him since he's been here."

''He played very well [Sunday], like he has the last couple weeks, and he hasn't peaked yet. He has a lot of ability, and I only see him getting better. ''But that's what we would like for all of our players, to take advantage of opportunities when we give it to them.''

The Bears defensive tackle rotation is much better than last seasons and i think even better than the Super Bowl season.

With Tommie Harris, Dusty Dvoraceck, Israel Idonije, Anthony Adams, and Marcus Harrison they look really solid.

Corey Graham Impresses Bears Coaches

Cornerback Corey Graham led the defense with 10 tackles at Detroit, drawing praise from Smith.

He could be used as a nickelback for this team.

He might force the coaching staff to consider ways to keep him on the field even with Nathan Vasher expected back.

''There's always room for good football players to play,'' Smith said. ''We'll find a spot. We tell our entire team it's their job to prove that we need to play them, and we'll find a way to play them.''

The Bears always seem to draft good players in the late rounds of the draft.

Look at Mark Anderson (5th), Trumaine McBride (7th), Kellen Davis (7th) , Matt Forte (3rd) , Alex Brown (4th), Lance Briggs (3rd), Kyle Orton (4th) and Kevin Payne (5th).

That is pretty impressive.

.

Lloyd Out; Booker, Tillman, Vasher and Williams Questionable

Brandon Lloyd is officially ruled out for Sunday's game against the Lions and Marty Booker, Charles Tillman, Nathan Vasher and rookie T Chris Williams are all questionable.

Also, Tommie Harris is suspended by head coach Lovie Smith for the game because he showed up late to some of treatments for his knee.

Kyle Orton had this to say about playing without WR Brandon Lloyd:

“It’s tough because he’s really coming on strong, he made a couple really nice catches and ran some great routes last week.”

Devin Hester had this to say about playing without WR Brandon Lloyd:

We know Brandon Lloyd went down, he’s a key receiver, but he’s down this week. It’s just going to give the next guy an opportunity to make plays. With him being down, it’s time for somebody else to step up.”

Lovie Smith on Tommie Harris suspension:

“We’re not trying to send any messages, it’s pretty simple: You’ve got rules, you break rules and you get punished.”

Other News:

After being inactive for the first four games, Bennett could be in uniform Sunday at Ford Field.

“I’m very eager to get the opportunity to get out there and play and help us win a game,” said the third-round pick from Vanderbilt. “If opportunity knocks, I’m there.”

Starting cornerbacks Charles Tillman (shoulder) and Nate Vasher (wrist) were limited in practice Friday and listed as questionable on the injury report, but both said they expected to play against the Lions.

Booker (knee) was also limited and listed as questionable, while rookie left tackle Chris Williams practiced without restrictions and was listed as questionable.

The first-round draft pick has been making steady progress in his rehabilitation from back surgery.

“Chris Williams had another good day and he’s had a good week of practice,” said coach Lovie Smith. “That’s always good to get a player like that back into the mix.”

Mike Hass Signed to Practice Squad

The Bears re-signed receiver Mike Hass to their practice squad.

Hass, who was caught in a numbers game during final cuts, had a tryout scheduled with the New York Giants.

Earl Bennett will likely suit up if Brandon Lloyd can't go and if Marty Booker can't play look for Brandon Rideau to get some time as well.

Bradley signed by the Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs added wide receiver Mark Bradley, signing him to a two-year contract.

He was released last month by the Bears.

Bradley joined the Bears in 2005 as a second-round draft pick but spent three-plus mostly disappointing seasons in Chicago.

He had his best season when he was a rookie, making 18 catches.