Chicago.com
Finally it is back to football for the Chicago Bears after a controversial week at Hallas Hall. From the turmoil that was the Calvin Johnson catch/dropped pass, to the off the field news regarding Jay Cutler’s new girlfriend and even the fresh news surrounding Matt Forte’s (pictured below) break up with his fiance on Tuesday, these Bears know how to keep our attention. 
This is all not good news during a week where the team should be focused on the upcoming game against an angry Cowboys team, looking to redeem themselves following a disappointing ending to the game against the Redskins.
The Bears offense looked good against the Lions minus the inability to score in the red zone. Jay Cutler threw the ball great aside from the interception, Matt Forte and the receivers had a good day and the Bears should have beaten the Lions by two touchdowns, at least. That of course did not happen as the same problems from last year resurfaced again, with the red zone looking more like the “no-land zone” for our beloved Bears.
The offense needs to correct this by Sunday because unlike Detroit, the Cowboys actually do play defense and red zone opportunities for the Bears will be few and far between. It is crucial to score on those chances come Sunday if the Bears are hoping to escape Dallas with a victory. Cutler has to stay away from those errand throws that get him in trouble and the receivers/tight ends have got to hang on to the football. The reason for the Bears low scoring output against the Lions last week was the inability to score in the red zone along with numerous fumbles. THE BEARS HAVE GOT TO HANG ON TO THE BALL!!!
The defense was impressive last week albeit against a team that lost their starting quarterback, however it was an impressive showing nevertheless. 
Julius Peppers (on the left) looked good in his first game as a Bear and the return of Brian Urlacher was a huge success. Urlacher was flying all over the field and looked good next to Lance Briggs as the two contained the Lions running game to a minimum, despite two rushing touchdowns by Jahvid Best. The secondary played okay except for the final drive of the game and they were aided by the fact that Matthew Stafford missed majority of the game with a separated shoulder. They will face a much sterner test on Sunday when they come across the likes of Miles Austin, Dez Bryant and Jason Witten. Cowboys were the No.2 ranked offense last year and even though they didn’t perform like it last week, the potential is still there.
The key for the Bears will be containing the Cowboys rushing attack and the three-headed monster that is Marion Barber III, Felix Jones and Tashard Choice. Barber is a physical back that loves punishing the defense with his bruising runs, while Felix Jones provides pure speed as a backup to Barber. That combination is very difficult to defend and then there is Tashard Choice, who can run and catch the ball, as the third option and he will want to perform well following his costly mistake against the Redskins that resulted in a touchdown.
From a Cowboys perspective, they will want to blitz Jay Cutler (below) any chance they get and hope that he has some “Jay-like” throws where he gifts balls to the opposing defenses. 
If the Cowboys are able to control the Bears run they will pressure Chicago into throwing more and with that comes the possibility of Cutler making mistakes. Cutler only had one interception against the Lions and lost one fumble, albeit the interception was pretty bad as he threw the ball into quadruple coverage – shades of ‘09 Cutler. He did, however, throw for over 370 yards and the Cowboys defense will have their hands full against a Bears offense still learning the new offensive system implemented by Mike Martz.
As for the Bears on defense, lots will depend on how much pressure they can put on Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo.
Romo didn’t have a great game against the Redskins and will be looking to improve at the Cowboys home opener – in front of more than 100,000 fans. He is known as one of the more elusive quarterbacks in the league and has a knack for getting out of the pocket and making something happen out of nothing. This, I believe will be a huge deciding factor on Sunday.
The Bears will get to Romo and probably so on numerous occasions. The reason for that is the improved play of the defense along with the fact that the Cowboys have major issues on the offensive line. That proved to be one of the major weaknesses in their loss at Washington and could hurt them again versus the Bears. They are getting a couple of people back from injuries and that should solidify the line, at least to a respectable level.
This should be an interesting game to watch as it is going to present our Bears with the first major test of the 2010 season. I think the Bears will keep it close for a while but in the end Tony Romo’s elusiveness, the trio of running backs, impressive Cowboys defensive line and the rowdy home crowd will ensure that the Cowboys come away with a victory.
I would like to hope that I’m wrong with my prediction here but unfortunately I do not see Bears coming away from Texas with a victory.
PREDICTION: Bears 17 – Cowboys 28
If Sunday was an indication of how this Bears season will go this year, then all of us are going to have ulcers by the time season ends. The Bears left it late to overcome a Lions team playing majority of the game without their star quarterback. Oh, and there was also that play where a Lions receiver caught a touchdown with less than 30 seconds left in the game, only for it to be disallowed due to a weird rule in the NFL official rulebook. Basically, just another regular season opener for the Bears, as the game left fans debating of what it was and what could have been for both teams.
Aside from the controversial call in the last 30 seconds of the game, there was the other 59:30 to discuss here. Some feel as though Bears dominated the game (yardage wise) and deserved to win the game, especially after knocking out the Lions QB Matthew Stafford. Others, on the other hand, saw major similarities between this year and last year, in particular in the red zone – the inability to score on four attempts.
Let’s go with the good things first. Jay Cutler looked good and the first official game with the partnership of he and Mike Martz produced good results. Cutler threw for over 350 yards and had only one “Cutler like” interception. He did lose a fumble because he held on the ball for too long but overall his performance was above average.
Matt Forte had a career game with over 200 yards from scrimmage, of which 150 came through receptions including a 89-yard screen TD pass. Chester Taylor provided good backup for Forte and solidified the position even more than everyone originally thought.
The receivers/tight ends looked to be better than what most would think with Aromashodu, Knox and Olsen all contributing in their own ways. Devin Hester only had one reception and had a disappointing game in general while Matt Forte picked up the slack with over 150 yards receiving.
The offensive line was the weak link yet again as they allowed four sacks and were unable to gain six inches in the fourth quarter. With the game on the line in the fourth quarter, Lance Briggs sacked Shaun Hill, caused a fumble and recovered it himself to give the Bears four opportunities to score inside the one yard line. On the next four plays the Lions defensive front stuffed the Bears O-line and brought even more controversy to Lovie Smith and the offensive line in general. Everyone knew that this was the weak link on the team and it was proven yet again. The real test for the O-line comes this Sunday at the new Cowboys Stadium.
The defense played great at times, I thought, and it was good to see Brian Urlacher piloting the defense once again. Aside from the final drive of the game the defense shut down the talented Lions offense, albeit with the backup QB. Holding them to a little over 100 yards net was a major accomplishment for this defense, which was a major problem in the last couple of years. Yes, it was after all only the Detroit Lions minus their starting QB but if the Bears defense can shut down the Cowboys offense in Dallas, then we might have something to rave about. The only issue with the defense was the Lions’ last drive where they marched right down the field with a backup QB.
The biggest play of the game was the Calvin Johnson TD that wasn’t allowed. Look, everyone has seen the replays a hundred times by now. If you have seen the play then you know that the Lions got robbed. Not by the officials, but by the NFL rulebook. Calvin Johnson made the catch and landed in the end zone safely and as he was about to get up and celebrate the ball made contact with the ground and fell out of his hand.
Yes, the refs did the right thing.
Yes, he did have complete possession of the football, he was just to excited that he made such a great catch he forgot to secure the ball with both hands. It’s happened before and it will happen again. It’s a flaw within the NFL rulebook and it should be corrected but a similar play happened last year in Week 1 in a game between the Chargers and Raiders. Did that change anything? No. It should have been changed but it wasn’t and it will most likely not be changed after this controversial call.
It’s a rough way to lose for Detroit, who lose the game and their franchise quarterback for about 4-8 weeks. For our Bears it’s a sneaky win but a win nevertheless. It wasn’t pretty at times and there is a lot room for improvement especially with the trip to Dallas looming in five days time.
Instead of talking about the controversial call in the end zone, we in Chicago should be talking about the defensive mistake not to double team Calvin Johnson on the last play. In my opinion you double team the best player on the opposing team, yet the Bears didn’t do that. It didn’t cost us the game this time but it might next time around.
Agree or disagree?
Let me know if you guys would have gone for it on the fourth down or if you would have double teamed the 6′5″ Calvin Johnson.
The NFL is finally back this Sunday and with that so is officially the return of Bears football. After last year’s disappointing season, the Bears return for another season hoping to bring the Superbowl back to Chicago after a long 25-year hiatus.
The team should be better than last year’s based on the facts that Jay Cutler has had one year under his belt in Chicago, as well as the successful free agency period that saw Julius Peppers and Chester Taylor find their way to the “Spaceship on the Lake Front.” While everyone was excited following the free agency pickups of Peppers and Taylor it was this preseason that took most of that positive energy out of Chicago. An 0-4 record and no imagination while doing so, made people of Chicago very worried about this upcoming season and in particular the first game against the Detroit Lions.
The Bears players and coaches are all telling the same thing: It’s the preseason and they didn’t want to show anything to the opposition in the preseason. Sure that might be true to an extent but did they have to look so awful while “not showing anything?” They will tell you this was all by design, and that once the season officially kicks off on Sunday at noon things will turn for the better. Whether they believe that or are just blowing smoke up our rear ends remains to be seen, the bottom line is it’s pretty hard to turn the switch on/off anytime one wants to.
As for the game on Sunday there are numerous different things to focus on in regards to matchup against the Lions. When the schedule first came out this looked like a perfect game to start the season off on the right note – facing a 2-14 team from last year. After watching the Bears and Lions perform in the preseason, however, even the biggest of optimists have to be slightly worried about the game.
The Bears offense did not look good in the preseason. That’s a fact. Cutler didn’t appear to have great chemistry with his receivers and the running backs, Matt Forte and Chester Taylor, didn’t impress they way they should have. The offensive line was the scapegoat of the preseason and that for a good reason: Cutler got sacked repeatedly making most wonder how long before he suffers an injury due to lack of protection. Cutler will have to play better and so will the running backs and receivers and especially the O-line if the Bears want to start the season on a positive note.
Things looked slightly brighter on the defensive side of the football in the preseason as no first team opposition offense made the defense look silly. The defense didn’t look spectacular but it did enough to convince most it will improve on last year’s horrid performance, when they finished in the bottom ten in the NFL in total defense. A city that prides itself on having one of the best defenses year in and year out was a shadow of its former self in 2009. The defensive line looks to be solid and the linebackers should be back to reliable self with Brian Urlacher back from injury. The problem will be the secondary, in particular safety spots as Chris Harris hopes to stabilize that spot before rookie Major Wright becomes a household name in the near future – hopefully.
The special teams underperformed in the preseason – a surprise to many people as the Bears usually have one of the best special teams units in the entire NFL every year. This problem will be fixed most likely since the Bears are always extremely solid in that department.
On Sunday the Bears have to be pay close attention to two Lions rookies, who are making noise across the NFL in the preseason. They are Jahvid Best and Ndamukong Suh. Best is a great running back who can run and catch the ball and will present major problems for the Bears defenders. Suh is force on the defensive line and if the Bears fail to protect Cutler like they did in the preseason it could be long afternoon for the former Commodores star.
The Lions are definitely young and are getting better in a hurry. In my opinion they will present a big problem for the Bears on Sunday and it would not be shock if they came in and stole a victory from Soldier Field. The Bears should, however, have enough to overcome Detroit and come away with the first W of the season. I think Cutler steadies the ship in the first game and the running attack finds a way into the endzone. The Bears will have problems with the talented Lions offense but in the end it should be enough for a Bears victory.
PREDICTION: Bears 27 – Lions 21
Friday and Saturday lineups at the North Coast Music Festival were great and a huge number of people came out to see the likes of Chemical Brothers, De La Soul, Paul Van Dyk and Moby among others. Those that came out to see those acts didn’t regret it all and spoke highly of all the music performances.
I was lucky enough to be at the festival on Sunday night and catch the performances by Chicago’s own Lupe Fiasco, followed by the duo of Nas and Damian Marley.
Going into this festival I knew it would be large in size (location: Union Park, West Side) , as well as the following due to the names appearing at the festival. The fact that it was the last big festival of the summer made the event even bigger, since people wanted to use that last weekend for something useful.
Arriving at the festival, the first thing that struck me was the impossible task of finding a parking spot somewhere close to the actual fest. I expected parking to be difficult because of the musical acts appearing that night but I didn’t anticipate parking a “mile” away from Union Park.
Regardless, once inside the festival the whole atmosphere reminded me a bit of Lollapalooza in the way everything was set up. Stages were not all that far from one another but just the right distance apart, as to not interfere with each others performances. The food vendors were at a safe distance from the actual stages, so if one wanted a hot dog or a beer you were most likely going to lose your spot in front of the stage.
I arrived just in time to catch the whole performance by Lupe Fiasco and that was certainly a major pick-me-up for the entire crowd. Fiasco definitely puts on a show and the entire crowd appreciated his energetic display, along with his hit songs “Kick, Push” and “Superstar.” I was there with my girlfriend and while I enjoy listening to Lupe Fiasco, she likes him more and she truly enjoyed the performance from start to finish.
After Lupe concluded his impressive performance, it was time for Nas & Damian Marley to entertain the crowds. I was looking for this performance more so than Lupe Fiasco, mainly because I am slightly older than majority of the crowd and I listened to Nas way back in the day. At this point and time it was around 8:30 and the dark of the night had completely set over Union Park.
Nas & Damian Marley did not disappoint. They started the show with Nas’ classic single “If I ruled the world” featuring Lauryn Hill, with Damian being kind enough and subbing in for the multiple Grammy Award winning singer. Starting off with that song was an absolute hit as the entire crowd got into it and sang along. From that point on the two alternated songs and helped out one another as they performed for a good hour and a half.
Their performance was truly amazing and the entire crowd sang along and held up lighters to all the classic Damian Marley songs. The duo was most definitely the right choice for the final performance of the festival, a festival that certainly looked like a complete success after it is all said and done.
The only downside to the event was the lines for the beer tickets as they easily exceeded 30-40 yards. The food lines were way shorter and I was impressed with the variety that they had to offer for an outdoor music festival. Sure one could get the usual burgers, hot dogs and pizza but the event also offered salads, kebobs and Thai food…something not always seen at a music fest.
Overall, the festival pleasantly surprised me in the way it was organized, as well the numerous culinary options available to the crowd. The music was well worth going to the fest and whether you liked techno, rap, reggae or even alternative, there was something there for everyone. This was a great festival for anyone in the mood for good music and a great way to say goodbye (unfortunately) to the summer, as we “welcome” fall/winter to Chicago yet again.
Labor Day weekend is usually a time for relaxing. The three-day weekend is a much-loved occurrence for many people. Some grill in their back yards, putting the last bit of warm weather to good use. Some visit family or go camping – to end the summer on a good note. This year, however many celebrated differently. This year, they spent three of their days having their minds blown by some of the best bands in the country.
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The North Coast Music Festival made Labor Day weekend into an unforgettable event. Big name bands from all over the country, as well as local artists performed on four stages over three days in Union Park. Thousands of music fans flocked to the premiere festival to see popular acts such as The Chemical Brothers, Nas & Damian Marley, Umphrey’s McGee, the Disco Biscuits, Moby (performing a DJ set), Pretty Lights, and De La Soul.
It was a very windy and often chilly weekend. As the sun went down each day and temperatures fell, the best way to keep warm was dancing in the crowds. The atmosphere throughout the park was filled with excitement and joy. The positive energy from both performers and festival goers was almost overwhelming, especially for a first run.
On Friday, DJs Paul Kalkbrenner and Paul Van Dyk got everyone moving and dancing. They warmed up audiences for the night’s headliners: The Chemical Brothers and Pretty Lights. Both headliners put on amazing shows, entrancing audiences as they performed. The Chemical Brothers had every persons hands in the air. Pretty Lights featured a spectacular stage design with a colorful lights show that seemed to turn the park into a raving night club. Glowsticks and balloons were tossed throughout the crowd as everyone grooved to the music.
Saturday’s line-up was packed with highly anticipated acts. Van Ghost, The New Deal, Jay Electronica, De La Soul, Umphrey’s McGee, and Moby (DJing) were a few of the days’ favorites. Jay Electronica’s mix of serious political messages and dirty humor made his set unforgettable. Various guests joined him on stage throughout his performance, adding to the unique experience. De La Soul packed the area in front of the Groupon Stage next. Old fans and new enjoyed the hip-hop group’s energizing set. Later, Umphrey’s McGee and Moby (performing a DJ set) battled for the attention of festival goers. Both had engaging sets and lights to compliment their personal musical moods.
When not enjoying the day’s musical acts, people enjoyed food from vendors such as Veeras Way, O’Briens, The Abbey Pub & Restaurant, Soul Vegetarian, Pizanos, and Tiparos Thai. I had fried coconut shrimp from The Abbey – it was filling and warm, which perfectly balanced the cold weather. The lines at beverage ticket booths all over the festival seemed to never end. Note to future festival goers: get as many beverage tickets at once as you think you’ll need for the day, the lines are always ridiculous.
Merchandise vendors and festival sponsors also had booths along the food and beverage areas. People shopped at booths selling clothes and accessories as well as band merch and custom t-shirts. Detroit-based media company Detek was there promoting their exclusive parties and selling t-shirts decorated with the phrase “I Love You But I’ve Chosen Techno” in various styles. Honest Teas and Juices promoted their drink items with samples at their booth. The low-sugar, high antioxidant beverages were refreshing and perfect for dehydrated festival goers. Other booths had jewelry, scarves, shirts, dresses, hats, and other accessories for sale – many items were handmade or environmentally conscious.
Overall, the North Coast Music Festival was a success. Great national and local bands played for large, excited crowds in a perfect setting. The festival was a prime example of Chicago’s enormous love for music and ability to embrace new events as equally as older annual festivals.
