Seattle's defensive backfield calls themselves "Legion of Boom."
They come to Soldier Field Sunday with Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner standing 6'3"and 6'4" respectively- among the leagues tallest DB's. Making this a match up Brandon Marshall has had circled all season. "Whenever you get a chance to play someone one on one-I'm excited about that...I'm glad they're playing." There was a chance they wouldn't. Both players are appealing suspensions after testing positive for Adderal- the latest in NFL's performance enhancing drugs. Marshall didn't know much about the drug or how it would impact on the field- but he isn't surprised. "It's such a competitive league, guys try anything to get that edge. I've heard guys using viagra- seriously because the blood- thins out-some crazy stuff." Um, yeah, that is crazy, but apparently it's approved by the league...right? I mean these guys have to be careful with cough syrup. But does it work? I mean for football.
Mike Tice literally said "No, I've never heard of that...he's making it up." I doubt it- but Tice has bigger things on his mind. Like who exactly will be starting on the offensive line.
Lovie Smith said, obviously they could start the 5 guys they finished Sunday's game with but they've added experience in 10 year veteran free agent Andre Gurode- a 5 time pro-bowler who is familiar with both Roberto Garza and Jonathan Scott. But he hasn't played football in a while. He says he's got plenty left in the tank, but there is no easing into week 12 on a team with needs on the line. Scott told me, Gurode's experience is what makes him so valuable. But we'll see how he responds after his first padded practice since last season.
He does give the Bears options, but for now he'll back up Gabe Carimi- demoted tackle- called into guard duty. Carimi appears to say the right things, but he's got a chip on his shoulder for sure. Can't help but feel badly for him a little bit. He's been through so much from his injury last season- to fighting to get his job back. His confidence is completely rocked right now! Perhaps just a chance to play and be effective will get him back on track.
LOOONG INJURY REPORT: Wednesday's practice had more spectators than the Bears have had all season. Lance Briggs and Charles Tillman were the defensive guys out with ankle injuries. Devin Hester, Kellen Davis, Alshon Jeffry, Chris Spencer all watching on offense. While Matt Forte was limited. Lovie said he was encouraged that Forte could do some things. The Bears would really like to get others involved offensively- but they obviously have to be healthy to make that happen. a full 7 days between games could help...that's only happened one other time this season.
Heading into his third season, Chicago Bears nose tackle Stephen Paea is ready to compete for the starting spot. But handling his family's off-season acquisition – triplets! – may be a bigger challenge.
Heading into his third season, Chicago Bears nose tackle Stephen Paea is ready to compete for the starting spot. But handling his family's off-season acquisition – triplets! – may be a bigger challenge.
Monday, May 13 2013 12:14 AM EDT2013-05-13 04:14:12 GMT
Chicago Bears quarterback Matt Blanchard had little chance to impress coaches last season or during an April minicamp, so he did what he could to make the most of his chance to throw at the team's rookie camp...
Chicago Bears quarterback Matt Blanchard had little chance to impress coaches last season or during an April minicamp, so he did what he could to make the most of his chance to throw at the team's rookie camp that ended...
Saturday, May 11 2013 11:39 PM EDT2013-05-12 03:39:02 GMT
Chicago Bears first round draft pick Kyle Long expects he'll be able to overcome the lack of offseason practice time that will result from missing all of organized team activities and minicamp with his new team.
Chicago Bears first round draft pick Kyle Long expects he'll be able to overcome the lack of offseason practice time that will result from missing all of organized team activities and minicamp with his new team.
