Why this Bears team doesn't need a FRANCHISE QB.

ChicagoMarine — Sun, 26 Aug 2007 19:54:18 -0000

The Chicago Bears have a sacred and hollowed football history, that has fostered and developed some of the greatest players in the game. Butkus, Sayers, Payton, and Grange among others. However, since the very late 70s, there has never been a solid franchise QB in Chicago Bears history.

And why should we be banking on one now with Rex Grossman. Chicago Bears football has always been about tremendous DEFENSE and a strong RUNNING GAME. But as of the past two years, it seems as if us Bears fans have become enamored with the idea of having a franchise QB. We've turned into a fan base divided along the lines of "Anti-Rex" or "Pro-Rex." Personally, I don't think that Grossman is a complete QB, but I can also say that last year his receiving corps could have done more to help pull him through his struggles. I also think that Turner has got to take a bit of responsibility in this matter as it is HIS offense and he has to tailor it to fit his personnel.

At this point though, I am wondering if the need for a FRANCHISE QB is necessarily what the Chicago Bears need to be focusing on. I mean... if you think about it, the Bears have won REGARDLESS of who was at the helm the past 2 years, and I expect the same this year. As quickly as fans like to point at the 7 plus-100 rating games, many others are quick to point at the other Rex who put up performances that was less than 10 points!?

However, the Bears are solid from every other point. Their defensive unit boasts several all-pro players and/or players in the top 5 of their position. Their depth is unparalleled compared to many other teams in the league. Although aging, the offensive line has played together several years and boasts several probowl players past and present. The run game has been solid the past two years and the special team unit is unrivaled with Devin Hester and NOW Garrett Wolfe and Daniel Manning in the backfield.

More importantly... despite Rex Grossman's erradic play, the Bears have won time and time again. Sometimes seemingly as if Grossman was playing for the other team!?

The Bears, at this point, only need a game manager. Similar to what Ben Rothelisburger was in Pittsburgh and Tom Brady was in the Patriots first championship run. Someone who can make the intermediate pass when need be, but also effectively drive the ball down the field and manage the game.

Now at this point in his development, I don't think that Kyle Orton is ready to fill those shoes. Hell? I don't know if he's ready for the role as a backup QB. However, I do think that Brian Griese is capable of steadying the course and doing the little things that made the offense successful in those seven games last year.

I believe that the Bears have to make a SERIOUS decision this year about the inconsistent play of Rex Grossman. They have to be VERY mindful of the "window of opportunity" to be atop of the division and conference.

I know many of you will see this as an opportunity to say, "Give Rex a chance," or to say, "I agree! We should start Griese." But, all I am saying is that we need to assess the right now. And the right now is this...

... The Bears are Super Bowl ready right now-- regardless who is at the helm of QB. But there needs to be an accurate assessment of what Rex is capable of doing. Free of emotional attachments and void of desires to have a "franchise QB."

SB Nation User Blog: ChicagoMarine

Why this Bears team doesn't need a FRANCHISE QB.