Chicago Bears Draft: Second Guessing

With the 2009 draft in the books, I took a look back at who was available and where. First, trading back for less value once again shows why Jerry Angelo has sucked in the draft. In his defense however, there seems to be some good value picks that I even had to agree with. Below you will find the overall pick number, the player, position, school and my draft grade on my value board that ranged from A+ to UDFA (undrafted free agent).

In this version, we ignore the trade back and go with Chicago's first pick at 49 overall ... FS William Moore out of Mizzou.

Here's how it would have played out:
*49 William Moore FS Mizzou - B
99 Juaquin Iglesias WR Oklahoma - B-
119 D.J. Moore CB Vanderbilt - B
140 Marcus Freeman OLB Ohio State - B-
154 Duke Robinson OG Oklahoma - B
190 Ricky Jean-Francois DT LSU - C
246 Rashad Jennings RB Liberty - B-
251 Darry Beckwith MLB LSU - B-

In our second look, we'll pretend that trading down - and for all intents and purposes PISSING AWAY the qequivalent of a mid-4th round pick was some sort of super-genius move ...

t*68 Jarron Gilbert DT SJS - B-
99 Juaquin,Iglesias WR Oklahoma - B-
t*105 Lawrence Sidbury DE Richmond - B-
119 D.J. Moore CB Vanderbilt - B
140 Marcus Freeman OLB Ohio State - B-
154 Duke Robinson OG Oklahoma - B
190 Brandon Gibson WR Washington State - C-
246 Rashad Jennings RB Liberty - B-
251 Derek Pegues FS Mississippi State - C-

And there ya have it. I do like the pickups of Gilbert, Iglesias, Moore and Freeman as they were all very good value at their respective positions in the draft.

Mock Draft version 1.4

1 Detroit Lions 6 Stafford QB UGA
2 St. Louis Rams 3 Smith LT Baylor
3 Kansas City Chiefs 9 Sanchez QB USC
4 Seattle Seahawks 2 Crabtree WR Tex Tech
5 Cleveland Browns 1 Curry LB Wake
6 Cincinnati Bengals 5 Raji DT BC
7 Oakland Raiders 12 Maclin WR Mizzou
8 Jacksonville Jaguars 14 Maualaga MLB USC
9 Green Bay Packers 4 Monroe LT UVA
10 San Francisco 49ers 8 Orakpo DE Texas
11 Buffalo Bills 11 Oher OT Ole Miss
12 Denver Broncos 21 Jackson DE LSU
13 Washington Redskins 13 Smith OT Alabama
14 New Orleans Saints 10 Brown LB FSU
15 Houston Texans 20 Cushing LB USC
16 San Diego Chargers 19 Jerry DT Ole Miss
17 New York Jets 22 Matthews LB USC
18 Denver Broncos (from Chicago) 23 Laurinaitis MLB OSU
19 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 35 Freeman QB Kansas St
20 Detroit Lions (from Dallas) 7 Jenkins CB OSU
21 Philadelphia Eagles 15 Moreno RB UGA
22 Minnesota Vikings 32 Hood DT Mizzou
23 New England Patriots 26 Smith CB Wake
24 Atlanta Falcons 39 English DE NIU
25 Miami Dolphins 18 Davis CB Illinois
26 Baltimore Ravens 17 Harvin WR Florida
27 Indianapolis Colts 37 Britton OT Arizona
28 Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina) 24 Bey WR Maryland
29 New York Giants 34 Beatty OT Uconn
30 Tennessee Titans 29 Mack C Cal
31 Arizona Cardinals 16 Wells RB OSU
32 Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Unger C Oregon

Mock Draft V1.3 (1st and 2nd Round)

Round 1
1 Detroit Lions 3 Smith LT Baylor
2 St. Louis Rams 4 Monroe LT UVA
3 Kansas City Chiefs 6 Stafford QB UGA
4 Seattle Seahawks 2 Crabtree WR Tex Tech
5 Cleveland Browns 1 Curry LB Wake
6 Cincinnati Bengals 5 Raji DT BC
7 Oakland Raiders 12 Maclin WR Mizzou
8 Jacksonville Jaguars 14 Maualaga MLB USC
9 Green Bay Packers 8 Orakpo DE Texas
10 San Francisco 49ers 9 Sanchez QB USC
11 Buffalo Bills 10 Brown LB FSU
12 Denver Broncos 21 Jackson DE LSU
13 Washington Redskins 11 Oher OT Ole Miss
14 New Orleans Saints 20 Cushing LB USC
15 Houston Texans 22 Matthews LB USC
16 San Diego Chargers 19 Jerry DT Ole Miss
17 New York Jets 7 Jenkins CB OSU
18 Denver Broncos (from Chicago) 23 Laurinaitis MLB OSU
19 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17 Harvin WR Florida
20 Detroit Lions (from Dallas) 18 Davis CB Illinois
21 Philadelphia Eagles 15 Moreno RB UGA
22 Minnesota Vikings 13 Smith OT Alabama
23 New England Patriots 26 Smith CB Wake
24 Atlanta Falcons 32 Hood DT Mizzou
25 Miami Dolphins 39 English DE NIU
26 Baltimore Ravens 30 Butler CB Uconn
27 Indianapolis Colts 37 Britton OT Arizona
28 Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina) 34 Beatty OT Uconn
29 New York Giants 16 Wells RB OSU
30 Tennessee Titans 29 Mack C Cal
31 Arizona Cardinals 28 Maybin DE Penn St
32 Pittsburgh Steelers 43 Unger C Oregon

Round 2
33 Detroit Lions 33 Ayers DE Tenn
34 New England Patriots (from KC) 24 Bey WR Maryland
35 St. Louis Rams 35 Freeman QB Kansas St
36 Cleveland Browns 31 Moore CB Vandy
37 Seattle Seahawks 45 Stintim OLB UVA
38 Cincinnati Bengals 27 Nicks WR UNC
39 Jacksonville Jaguars 47 Robinson OG Oklahoma
40 Oakland Raiders 44 Johnson DE Ga Tech
41 Green Bay Packers 25 Pettigrew TE Okla St
42 Buffalo Bills 42 Barwin DE Cincy
43 San Francisco 49ers 41 Smith CB Utah
44 Miami Dolphins (from Washington) 51 Moore FS Mizzou
45 New York Giants (from New Orleans) 55 Loadholt OT Oklahoma
46 Houston Texans 46 Delmas FS W. Mich
47 New England Patriots (from San Diego) 53 Byrd CB Oregon
48 Denver Broncos 50 Brace DT BC
49 Chicago 40 Britt WR Rutgers
50 Cleveland Browns (from Tampa Bay) 36 McCoy RB PITT
51 Dallas 49 Robiskie WR OSU
52 New York Jets 38 Brown RB Uconn
53 Philadelphia Eagles 48 Cook TE S Car
54 Minnesota Vikings 60 Marks DT Auburn
55 Atlanta Falcons 58 Chung SS Oregon
56 Miami Dolphins 54 Francies CB SJS
57 Baltimore Ravens 63 Kruger DE Utah
58 New England Patriots 65 Meredith OT S Car
59 Carolina 57 Iglesias WR Oklahoma
60 New York Giants 78 Beckwith MLB LSU
61 Indianapolis Colts 66 Moala DT USC
62 Tennessee Titans 52 Wood C Louisville
63 Arizona Cardinals 61 Greene RB Iowa
64 Pittsburgh Steelers 69 Johnson OG LSU

Mock Draft Version 2

1 Detroit Lions - Aaron Curry LB
2 St. Louis Rams - Jason Smith LT
3 Kansas City Chiefs - Brian Orakpo DE
4 Seattle Seahawks -Michael Crabtree WR
5 Cleveland Browns - Malcolm Jenkins CB
6 Cincinnati Bengals - B.J. Raji DT
7 Oakland Raiders - Jeremy Maclin WR
8 Jacksonville Jaguars - Rey Maualuga MLB
9 Green Bay Packers - Eugene Monroe OT
10 San Francisco 49ers - Matthew Stafford QB
11 Buffalo Bills - Everette Brown DE
12 Denver Broncos - Peria Jerry DT
13 Washington Redskins - Tyson Jackson DE
14 New Orleans Saints - Brian Cushing OLB
15 Houston Texans - Clay Mathews OLB
16 San Diego Chargers - Michael Oher OT
17 New York Jets - Vontae Davis CB
18 Chicago Bears - Eben Britton OT
19 Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mark Sanchez QB
20 Detroit Lions (from Dallas) - James Laurinitis MLB
21 Philadelphia Eagles - Knowshon Moreno RB
22 Minnesota Vikings - Andre Smith OT
23 New England Patriots - Alphonso Smith CB
24 Atlanta Falcons - Evander Hood DT
25 Miami Dolphins - Darius Butler CB
26 Baltimore Ravens - D.J. Moore CB
27 Indianapolis Colts - William Beatty OT
28 Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina) - Percy Harvin WR
29 New York Giants - Chris Wells RB
30 Tennessee Titans - Alex Mack C
31 Arizona Cardinals - Aaron Maybin DE
32 Pittsburgh Steelers - Duke Robinson OG

Mock Draft Version 1

1 Detroit Lions - Jason Smith LT
2 St. Louis Rams - Eugene Monroe LT
3 Kansas City Chiefs - Matthew Stafford QB
4 Seattle Seahawks - Michael Crabtree WR
5 Cleveland Browns - Aaron Curry LB
6 Cincinnati Bengals - B.J. Raji DT
7 Oakland Raiders - Jeremy Maclin WR
8 Jacksonville Jaguars - Rey Maualaga MLB
9 Green Bay Packers - Brian Orakpo DE
10 San Francisco 49ers - Mark Sanchez QB
11 Buffalo Bills - Everette Brown LB
12 Denver Broncos - Peria Jerry DT
13 Washington Redskins - Michael Oher OT
14 New Orleans Saints - Brian Cushing LB
15 Houston Texans - Malcolm Jenkins CB
16 San Diego Chargers - Knowshon Moreno RB
17 New York Jets - Vontae Davis CB
18 Chicago Bears - Hakeem Nicks WR
19 Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Percy Harvin WR
20 Detroit Lions (from Dallas) - Clay Matthews LB
21 Philadelphia Eagles - Chris Wells RB
22 Minnesota Vikings - Tyson Jackson DE
23 New England Patriots - James Laurinaitis MLB
24 Atlanta Falcons - Brandon Pettigrew TE
25 Miami Dolphins - Alphonso Smith CB
26 Baltimore Ravens - Darius Butler CB
27 Indianapolis Colts - Evander Hood DT
28 Philadelphia Eagles (from Carolina) - Darrius Heyward-Bey WR
29 New York Giants - Andre Smith OT
30 Tennessee Titans - Alex Mack C
31 Arizona Cardinals - Aaron Maybin DE
32 Pittsburgh Steelers - William Beatty OT

Super Bowl Sunday

Gotta like the Steelers today -6.5 according to the system (which sucked this playoff season). They have the better regular season record and some of the funniest material on Kissing Suzy Kolber when they make fun of Hines "Supel happy smirre time" Ward.

Not that Arizona is a slouch but their biggest key better be keeping Kurt Warner upright. Matt "Matty Light" Leinart sucks great big donkey cock and would shit himself in the face of that Steeler D.

If the Steelers want to take this one, that offense better get clicking and that starts with Big Ben and "Supel happy smirre time". Establish the run but if Big Ben plays like he did a couple years back, Arizona will run away with it.

Donovan McNabb: You da man!

With playoff system going FULL RETARD, I just wanted to congratulate Donovan McNabb on making it to the NFC Championship game. If there is a QB in this league who deserves it more, I don't know who it is. McNabb takes on criticism each year - some by retarded NCAAP members - and just keeps winning. He was a winner in high school, at Syracuse, and in Philly. For those of use Bear fans with our guys out of the playoffs, D-Mac keeps my rooting interest safe!

Way to go Donovan and win the Super Bowl ... I actually have money at 25-1 on Philly to win it all so there's an even better rooting interest!

Playoff System

After an auspicious 0-3 start, the playoff system adds four more plays for this weekend. It's take the home chalk week in the NFL.

2* TEN -2(130)
2* CAR -9.5
2* NYG -4
2* PIT -6

Playoff System

A very simple system I found years ago for betting during the playoffs: Always take the team with the most wins regardless if they are at home, on the road, or in a neutral setting.

So this weekend:
2* Atl +1
2* Ind pk
2* MIN +3.5(125)

Good luck ... a season recap of Chicago's 9-7 season up soon.

Cedric Benson gets no respect

The delusional head-case and former Bear Cedric "Two-yards and a cloud of BUST" Benson was recently interviewed by NFL.com about the emergence of Matt Forte. To be perfectly honest, I've been on the edge of my seat wondering what a Special-Assed has-been\never-will-be thought about Matt Forte, and I was so excited to see he favored us with his opinion I peed a little.

Said, Ced: "He is having a great year, but when I see the highlights, I see holes. I see them using him in the slot, something they didn't do with me. If I was there right now with the holes I see, I'd probably have 1,800 yards right now. I definitely would have 1,500 by now."

Now I know Ced grew up in Midland and attended the University of Texas, so that already makes him like two kinds of retarded. However, Ced, you barely have had 1,800 yards in your entire career! What makes you think that your healthy 3-yard per carry average in Cincy would make you an 1,800-yard rusher in Chicago? Were the Bears going to give you 600 carries by now?

Personally, I pray that Ced never becomes self-aware because the abrupt explosion of cognitive disonance may be enough to throw the world into a vortex of suck so powerful it will need the words "Tyler Perry Presents" tacked onto it for good measure.

Cedric, you couldn't run for 1,800 yards on a fucking tread mill. Just drift off into obscurity you no-talent ass-clown whiel counting the millions you stole from Chicago. Eat a bag of dicks.

Capper's Corner: Week 15

1* Buf +9
1* Ten -2.5
2* BAL -2(130)
1* Den +7.5
3* ARI -3(125)
2* Ne -6.5

Year-to-date:
3* 2-5
2* 13-6
1* 13-15

Capper's Corner: Week 13

1* Mia -6.5(120)
3* Ind -4.5
2* NE -1
1* HOU -3(115)

Year-to-date:
3* 2-4
2* 13-5
1* 12-14

Capper's Corner: Turkey Day

2* Ari +3.5(130) - Not sure about this spread but I do know Philly couldn't play dead.

Year-to-date:
3* 2-4
2* 13-4
1* 12-14

Capper's Corner:Week 10

2* Jax -6.5
1* Buf +3.5
2* ATL -1
1* Stl +10
2* MIN -2
1* PIT -3(125)
1* Nyg +3.5(125)
1* Bal +1

Capper's Corner Week 9

Took a week off now back to the chalk:

1* Cle -1(125)
2* Ari\STL OV 49
3* Gb +4
2* Atl -2.5(115)
1* Dal +8.5
2* Ne +7(120)
1* Pit\WAS OV 36.5

Record to date:
3* 1-4
2* 9-2
1* 10-8

Capper's Corner Week 7

No time for analysis ... so BECAUSE I SAID SO!!! :-D

2* Dal -7(120)
2* CHI -2.5(125)
Min\CHI OV 37(120)
Nos +3(120)
2* NYJ -3(115)
3* Ind -2
Den +3.5(125)

Record to date:
3* 1-3
2* 7-1
1* 9-6

Capper's Corner Week 6

1* Nos -6.5(115) - New Orleans will bounce back this week after a disappointing Monday night. If this team wants to be taken seriously, these are the games you gotta win big.

1* Cin\NYJ OV 42.5 - I know Carson Palmer is out but this game will put points on the board.

3* Chi -2.5 - Rookie QB and a struggling secondary against a stifling defense and rejuvenated air attack.

2* Phi\SF OV 41.5 - Always play the over in San Fran especially this year.

2* ARI +5 - The Cards are playing great ball right now, so an outright win may only surprise the Cowboys.

1* Gb +1 - This is not a ringing endorsement of the Pack, just how far Seattle has fallen.

ADDING: 2* Jax +3.5(115) - Just because.

Year to Date:
3* 1-2
2* 4-1
1* 7-5

Capper's Corner Week 5

1* Ind -3(120) - Time for Peyton Manning and the Colts to right the ship in Houston.
1* Atl +3.5 - Aaron Rodgers is a game-time decision but obviously he won't be at full strength. Atlanta and Michael Turner will gash that Green Bay run defense.
1* Tb\DEN OV 46.5 - Tampa Bay is living by the pass and Denver will be as well.
2* Ne\SF OV 46.5 - Neither of these teams are world beaters but they will put up points this week.
2* Cin +16 - I don't care how bad Cincy is, no team should be getting 16 points in week 5 ... well maybe the Rams.
3* NOS -2.5(125) - By the hook but New Orleans is head and shoulders better than the Viqueens.
1* Min\NOS OV 46.5 - New Orleans has an explosive offense and Minnesota will eventually have to abandon the run and air it out.

Season to Date:
3* 1-1
2* 2-1
1* 4-4

Thoughts after 3 weeks

Where is Kevin Jones? We are going to wear out Forte at this rate. He's good but damn let's not turn him into Eddie George (a great RB who finally wore down).

Matt Millen has been fired only 6 years too late. This is great news for the Lions but bad news for the Bears as the joke from up north may actually find someone competent and how hard could it be to find someone better than Jerry Angelo?

Brandon Lloyd is looking good at the top spot on the wide receiver ... the problem is who the hell is going to step up at the #2? It sure as fuck isn't Rashied Davis.

We sent Mark Bradley packing and picked up a CB? What the fuck? Hey, I thought Bradley was going to be axed before week 1 but I thought it would be for Brandon Rideau. We have no #2 or #3 so what the hell is the kid doing on our practice squad ... give him a fucking chance!

Could we please quit passing the ball to Jason McKie and get Greg Olsen and Desmond Clark more involved? Olsen had a HORRENDOUS game in Week 2 but we have to move passed that. He and Clark should be leading this team in catches because a creative offensive coordinator should be using these guys to get mismatches.

Devin Hester returns this week and not a moment too soon. I was holding my breath every time Nate Vasher was sent back to return punts. He is much too valuable a CB to expose him to punt return duties.

Speaking of What the fuck ... I'm looking at you Peanut Tillman. You are a veteran and got baited into a fight by some lackluster wide out who is lucky to be even on the field. Fucking stupid.

Kyle Orton, you are no longer allowed to check out of a run on 3rd and short. You have a battering ram of a running back in Matt Forte so just give him the damn ball!

Could Mark Anderson be any more of a one-year wonder? Actually that entire d-line needs to get their shit together. Brian Griese throws 67 times and isn't sacked ... that is just plain horrible.

Chris Williams is back to practice and is "on no time table" to get on the playing field. I'm still waiting for him to get injured during a non-contact practice ... AGAIN; great pick, Jerry.

Bob Babich, it's time to update your resume. This defense hasn't been right since that meltdown of all meltdowns against Detroit last season. It's not working, bring in a REAL defensive coordinator!

Capper's Corner: Week 4

2* Ari +1 - The Cardinals are playing good football right now and this Jets team isn't very good.

1* Ari\NYJ OVER 43.5 - Two good QB's and plenty of chances for some scoring. I like this in the 48-51 point range.

1* Gb pk(+115) - This game is a toss-up and if we're getting 115-to-100 that is a value play.

1* Buf -8 - St. Louis is just plain bad and Trent Green isn't going to change that. Buffalo in a route.

Season to Date:
3* 1-1
2* 2-0
1* 2-3

Capper's Corner Week 3

2* Cincy +14(120) - I know Cincy isn't exactly a world-beater but 14 points by the Super Bowl champs? New York has a bullseye on them every week so this is a nice value.
1* Ari +3.5(120) - I still cannot believe Washington won last week so I like Arizona in this one.
1* Car +3.5 - Carolina beats San Diego and Chicago and now is a dog to Tarvaris Jackson and the winless Vikes? I'll take Carolina especially with Steve Smith back from suspension.
1* Pit +3.5 - Everyone saw Philly on Monday night but Pittsburgh may be the class of the AFC this season.

Season to Date:
3* 1-1
2* 1-0
1* 2-0

Bear Report Week 1: Chicago 29, Indy 13

Chicago dominated the Colts on Sunday night at the new Lucas Oil Field in Indianapolis. Considering oil companies have been fucking all of us six ways to Sunday, it was nice to see Chicago extract a little payback.

Peyton Manning, fresh off two knee surgeries in which his knee became infected - possibly from gay homosexual buttsecks (that's the DCODC unofficial word) - was ineffective in his fist start since last season. Manning showed rust and had his timing and rhythm upset all night from constant pressure up the middle by Chicago.

Speaking of pressure, it was reported that during the game, Rex Grossman tried to buy some nachos but put on the spot when asked "Cheese or Salsa?" he panicked, ran backwards 15 yards, fell down and strained his MCL.

Capatain Neckbeard guided the offense well but it was rookie RB Matt Forte who stole the show. On a 3rd and 6 at midfield, Forte made a cut and then out ran defensive player of the year Bob Sanders enroute to a 51-yard TD scamper. Welcome to the NFL Matt Forte!

In a related story, Cedric Benson saw the play and exclaimed "I can do that", stepped off his bar stool, slipped on the floor, and knocked himself out. He's expected to miss his shuffleboard league for the next 4-6 weeks recovering.

All of the preseason hand-wringing - for now - seems to be much ado about nothing. The starting defensive unit looked like the 2006 Bears as they outplayed, out-muscled, and generally dominated a Colt offense generally considered one of the best in the NFL. DE Adawale Ogunleye spent so much time in the Colts's backfield, at one point Manning mistakenly called for him to run a go-route ... probably the pain killers Peyton was on.

Greg Olsen and Desmond Clark looked like the best tandem of TEs in the league making big plays when called upon. The two are favorite targets of Kyle Orton and with good reason. With an average to below average receiving corp, these guys make everyone around them better ... especially their QB!

Talking heads around the league have already dismissed this as a fluke, an Indy implosion, Peyton Manning not ready, Bigfoot, cats and dogs living together ... and blah, blah, fricking blah. HOWEVER, the douchebag of the week award goes to:

CBS Sportsline Gregg (the extra G is for GAY!) Doyel who is such a student of the NFL and often referred to as the Dali Lama of the NFL (or was that the Jay Mariotti of Doucheville, I forget) when he pronounced without a doubt:
"I'm not sure what to make of the 2008 Chicago Bears, but I'm sure of this: They're not good enough to beat the Indianapolis Colts 29-13. Not in Chicago, and definitely not in Indianapolis. Not at brand new Lucas Oil Stadium or the forsaken RCA Dome or the even skanky patch of urban blight located between the two domes."

Gee Gregg, you're right! We should petition the league to have this game stricken from the record books. Have this blight on the NFL and this injustice to humanity white-washed. Cut the fingers from our scribes and cut the tongues out of our orators so such a game shall NEVER be remembered ... or we could just call it an Indy beat-down at the hands of a Chicago team that may be better than everyone expected and move on. But of course, you can't be the new Mariotti without whipping on the Bears, right Gregg?

Capper's Corner: Week 2

Hit my only pick last week when the Giants covered over the Skins. This week, here's a look at the early lines and what I'm feeling:

3* Nos pk at WAS: Easiest play on the board with New Orleans loaded offensively against the anemic Skins' attack.

2* Ind pk at Min: Don't let the Bear game fool you, Indy is a great value on this play. I picked Minnesota as a pretender this season and will be playing against them any time it offers value.

1* Bal +4.5 at HOU: Gotta love the doggies, and Baltimore looks like an improved team even with their young QB.

1* DEN +2 vs Sdg: Yeah, Denver did beat up on the Crypt Keeper's train wreck of a team, but Denver in Mile High is ALWAYS tough to beat. I'll take the home doggy.

1* Phi +7.5(120) at DAL: I would buy the extra half point based on historical data that says to buy it when you're getting a half point. Aside from that, are we really to believe this is not an improved Philly team with a healthy McNabb? A lot of questions should be answered by both teams in this game.

Season to Date:
3* 1-0
2* 0-0
1* 0-0

Schadenfreude dilemma: NFL Week 1

Do I root for the Viqueens to beat Green Bay and wait for the inevitable landslide of pissed off fat people from Wisconsin clamoring for Favre ...

OR do I root for the Cheese Dicks and laugh at all the ignorant douchebags who called the Purple Queens a contender this season?

What do you guys think?

The Man's 8th Annual Contenders, Pretenders and Dark Horses

No time for breakdowns or recap of 2006 (since I skipped 2007) ... Just know that you lay $20 on the contenders and dark horses. You may also want to bet them against the spread. The pretenders, play against them. I will try and update later with the thinking behind each and the record from previous years.
NOTE: Odds shown are to WIN the Super Bowl.

Contenders
4. Jacksonville 14-1
3. Dallas 6-1
2. San Diego 7-1
1. New England 5-1

Pretenders
4. Cleveland 20-1
3. Tennessee 40-1
2. Seattle 25-1
1. Minnesota 14-1

Dark Horses
4. Tampa Bay 40-1
3. New York Jets 40-1
2. Cincy 50-1
1. Philly 25-1

Good luck this NFL season!

Capper's Corner

Gotta like a 3* play on New York tonight -3.5(ev).

NOTE: Star rating is unit rating. For those who've never heard of WYD Sports or my articles for TMW or RedEye Sports, just take it as an informed opinion ... but don't look for too many. ALSO, I rarely go above a 3-unit play. Those are usually the strongest aside from a 5* about once or twice per season and the very rare 4*.

The Final 53?

Chicago has finished their preseason and the final 53 is in. Some disappointments and some questions still abound. Here are my thoughts:

Caleb Hanie is IN!!!! Our young QB who has looked like the best option we've had in my 33 years as a fan made the final roster. Hanie is the future of this team whether it's 2009 or 2010. Congrats to the undrafted rookie who has rejuvenated Chicago fans hope for what we've been missing: a true NFL quarterback with all of the skills needed to lead this team to our next championship!

Mark Bradley survives at the expense of Brandon Rideua. Bradly had better catch 50 passes this season for at least 3 TD's before I even begin to believe in this choice. Rideau will catch on somewhere else as each year he's become better and better. Good luck Brandon.

Last year's 2nd and 3rd round picks (Bazuin and Okwo) were sent packing. Good call on cutting them but WHAT THE FUCK were they drafted for in the first place? Both were reaches and now both are colossal busts as far as Chicago is concerned.

We have a shaky offensive line and only two backups: career journeyman Metcalf and newcomer Barton. Barton looks like he can play but Metcalf has NEVER been the answer no matter what the question is. Chicago will have to make a play on another offensive lineman with Chris Williams taking up a roster spot. This could hurt Hanie or - with hope - Bradley.

Toeaina makes the final 53 man squad and for good reason. This kid outplayed everyone when given the chance last season and with Harris and Dvoracek's injury history he provides a solid backup and - in a pinch - starter.

Wolfe survives and too be honest I do not see how. AP is the most versatile RB on the Bears (and one of my favorites) but Wolfe is actually the 3rd best option in the return game and does not contribute anywhere else except scat back. He's another one that should not get too comfortable unless he can show some of his collegiate form but he's looking more and more like a poor man's Reggie Bush.

We'll start the season with Payne at safety and I have no idea why he's better than McGowan. McGowan was everywhere on the field every time he was out there and Payne did not impress me. For now, I'll write this off as being an uninformed fan.

McBride was an absolute surprise last season as a 7th-rounder who contributed and came out as a future starter ... this preseason he looks lost. I am hoping he can revert to form but if not ... see the above comments on guys who could be on the outside looking in.

Orton takes over the starting spot as I predicted. Now, let's see if he can lead this offense. I like what I've seen thus far.

How long will it be before KJ overtakes Forte for the starting RB job? I absolutely loved Jones coming out of Va Tech and Forte looks strong but Jones is a game breaker. Hopefully we can have a nice mix of the two this year but I think - if healthy - Jones will relegate Forte to the backup role.

I have recently thrown my hat into the ring for GM of Chicago. I will run with Creighton (see the suntimes and trib message boards) on the platform of AT LEAST WE'RE NOT JERRY FUCKING ANGELO!!! ... I like our chances!

Game Notes: Preseason Week 3

No tackling again on the first drive but Bears clamp down enough to force a field goal. We continue to make RB look All-Pro even unknowns.

Ugly reverse to Manning ends up paying off as he bolts down the field and damn near takes it back for a score.

Nice TD pass from Orton to Davis as he split three defenders and placed the ball perfectly.

The second drive starts much like the same with bad defense and watching RBs catch passes and rush for big yards.

Tough break for Tillman on a pass interference in the end zone. Tillman needed to get his head around but the ball was thrown badly and it leads to a 1st and goal from the 1.

Tillman makes up for it on 2nd and goal and blows up Frank Gore for no gain.

Dvoracek looks good in the goal line blowing up one play and then sacking O'Sullivan on 3rd and goal to force a field goal.

Danieal Manning has returned two kickoffs 70+ yards now. He's no Hester but there's something to be said for Dave Toub.

Vernon Davis bobbles a 50-yarder from O'Sullivan and it's called a completion. Going to review now but once again the announcers completely miss it but the Bears throw the flag. Late bobble it stands.

Next play O'Sullivan rolls out and hits an uncontested Hill for 37 yards in the endzone. Guess we should have maybe thought about keeping this guy, huh?

The San Francisco running and passing game are torching the Bears defense up and down the field. This is pathetic.

Garret Wolfe continues to make the case why he should be cut with a short kickoff return and a fumble that is recovered by San Fran at the Bears' 16 yard line.

O'Sullivan has thoroughly dominated the Bears so much, they are letting Alex Smith into the game with almost the entire 2nd auarter to go. In a dress rehearsal for the regular season, O'Sullivan has torn apart the Chicago defense with a nice balance of big play runs and even bigger passes. Smith's entrance into the game is a staggering indictment of how bad this Bear defense is and has been.

Smith takes over and the Bear defense continues to be unbearable - for Bear fans. 3rd and Goal and it's another holding penalty in the endzone for Tillman which looks ticky-tack but it's his second. San Fran punches it in on the next play.

San Fran has over 200 yards with over 11 minutes left in the 2nd quarter. Anyone worried yet?

Wolfe still can't make it passed the 20 but at least he holds on to the ball.

Huge play - 55 yars - from Orton to Bradley on busted coverage but BRadley still caught form behind.

4th and 1 and Matt Forte has nothing but running room and tries to drag guys with im into the end zone. Good run and excellent burst by the rookie.

Followed with a TD to Olsen that is called back by an illegal formation by Olsen. 1st and goal from the 7 now.

Screen to Devin Hester went nowhere with no one blocking and Hester trying whatever he could to create a hole.

A second TD from Orton to Davis. Fellas mark your fantasy leagues. The word around camp was Davis was taking it to the next level. This may be a glimpse into the future.

Hester fields the ball going into the end zone then tries to run it out. Hester, you are great, but don't try that shit again please!!!

Davis continues to make big plays grabbing a 23-yarder. Hats off to Orton for stepping up in pressure and finding is new favorite toy!

Orton hits Davis in the endzone and Davis drops it. OK, great job Rashied, we'll give you a pass on that one just don't make a habit of it. Game tied 20-20 on Gould FG.

Alex Smith hits Jason Hill for 31 yards. Hill looks like a super star in this half, beating Tillman. Not a good game for Charles but he gets a pass as well.

Izzy Idonije blocks the kick to end the half. Izzy who's kicked ass at every position he's played may be a backup but he's probably the best utility player in the NFL. What a stud!

Manning with another good return.

Kevin Jones first carry and what knee injury? Jones scampers - breaking tackles - for a loooong run!

Another good series for Orton that was stopped by a drop from McKie but he gets a pass. The 3rd down and 9 play is swatted at the line by a nice athletic play by San Fran's DE. Gould though misses the 48-yarder and it's still 20-20.

More and more missed tackles as the game rolls on. Alex Smith is moving the ball despite less than pin-point passing.

A TD by Alex Smith to Dominique Zeigler against the #1 defense of Chicago. 27 points in the first 36.5 minutes of the game by a San Fran offense that has more questions than ours. Yay defense.

Grossman in with the 1st string against the 2nd string San Fran Defense. The 49ers bring the pressure straight up the middle and make it look like a reverse situation.

Brandon Lloyd makes himself known with a nice punt block showing he can play two phases of the game.

Jerry Angelo Raises the Bar

1 2008 1 14 Chris Williams T CHI 0 0 0 Vanderbilt
2 2007 1 31 Greg Olsen TE CHI 2007 2007 0 0 0 14 39 391 2 Miami (FL)
3 2005 1 4 Cedric Benson RB CHI 2005 2007 0 0 1 35 420 1593 10 26 180 0 Texas
4 2004 1 14 Tommie Harris DT CHI 2004 2007 0 3 4 60 19.5 Oklahoma
5 2003 1 14 Michael Haynes DE CHI 2003 2005 0 0 0 42 1 5.5 Penn State
6 2003 1 22 Rex Grossman QB CHI 2003 2007 0 0 2 32 489 900 5907 31 33 52 76 1 1 -4 0 Florida
7 2002 1 29 Marc Colombo T CHI 2002 2007 0 0 2 55 Boston College
8 2001 1 8 David Terrell WR CHI 2001 2005 0 0 1 54 4 14 0 128 1602 9 Michigan

I mean for a GM who's seen more busts than Joe Francis, Jerry Angelo has really outdone himself. I mean, David Terrell(2001, 8th overall) was so bad he never started for anyone but Chicago and is out of the league. At least Terrell caught on with another team before being bounced from the league after a 4-year career in Chicago.

Then there was that double blockbuster of 2003 when Jerry boldly traded back to take Michael Haynes (14th overall) and Rex Grossman (22nd overall). Haynes managed to make it three years with Chicago, started 4 games, and was then bounced out of the league. Grossman, luckily for him, is with Chicago, the team that will keep you around indefinitely if you're a 1st-rounder and they can keep finding excuses for your lack of development.

Then of course, let us not forget Cedric "Two yards and a cloud of Bust" Benson (4th overall, 2005). Angelo sold this bag of shit as a "high character guy" and a "workhorse type back." After Benson proved both of which were false, he still was given the job as the starter despite showing neither talent nor desire. Thomas Jones was traded for a sack of magic beans after carrying the offense in the 2006 Superbowl run. Much like many oter first rounders of Angelo, Benson is enjoying his life with his millions and no NFL job.

But this season. THIS SEASON. Angelo raised even his bar. With everyone else in the NFL moving Chris Williams down their board because of injury concerns, Jerry Angelo used his 14th overall pick on Williams. Of course, Williams has already rewarded Chicago by making it through HALF A PRACTICE before needing surgery for that same back issue others were warned about.

Think about it. Michael Haynes actually needed 3 years to prove he was a bust and leave the NFL for good, never playing a meaningful down for any team except the Chicago Bears. But Chris Williams? He could actually set the record for being the biggest bust in Bear history by making it through only half a practice in his NFL history. His $9 million in garaunteed money, Williams could end up his career with a job that paid him about $1.5 million per minute he practiced!

Even Matt Millen has to tip his hat to such a colossal fuckup! Al Davis is green with envy (and possibly his lack of soul). Jerry Angelo you worthless bag of shit, please do everyone a favor and resign this position that you have spectacularly showed you cannot handle. Eat a bag of dicks you fucking hack!

Preaseason Game #1: Notes

I meant to post these the day after the game, but a flooded basement and the headaches that come with it got in the way. Here's my stream of consciousness as I watched the first game of the preseason:

Brandon McGowan is a stud ... 3rd down and long play McGowan separated receiver from ball but no one caught it. The missed call lead to the opening drive touchdown.

Trumain McBride looks absolutely terrible. I mean FUCKING terrible. He has regressed badly since last season.

Matt Forte looks ok ... Definite upgrade the way he hits the hole and sheds people. He also doesn't fall down after 2 yards so Jerry Angelo will probably try and trade him soon.

Grossman is Grossman ... Orton is safe but never going to be an all-star.

The d-line was consistently beat off the line in that first drive ... They recovered later but only showed some flashes. Including Mark Anderson putting good pressure on the QB in at least two occassions.

Rookie Marcus(?) Harrison looked good, but will he be consistent? And will he behave off the field?

Big fucking surprise, we wasted a pick on Chris Williams and his disc injury (more to follow in an article later) ... Rashard Mendenhall anyone?

Garret Wolfe made a statement that he belongs in the NFL ... He's got many detractors but you cannot dismiss his big play ability even though he's a gadget player.

Return guys were unimpressive .. no one can match Hester ,... Wolfe was drafted with that idea so let's use him when we're keeping Devin Hester safe.

Mike Hass once again showed why fans are clamoring for him making another great catch on a tough throw ... He later makes an uncharacteristic drop.

Hanie showed some feet when the play breaks down ... A mobile QB with good pocket awareness in Chicago is as rare as a good M. Night Shyamalan film.

PJ Pope continues to be a preseason rockstar ... why not give him a chance?

Rookie QB Caleb Hanie shows off some touch and some arm with a pass to fellow rookie Kellen Davis and follows up with a gun to to Brandon Rideau for the TD.

Rookie Zack Bowman with a good hit on kickoff return submarining the Chiefs returner.

3rd and short with a QB Hanie who is on fire and Bears run a FB ... Is that the coaches desperate effort to not add Hanie to the QB competition?