Jay Cutler, QB, Chicago Bears (1 Viewer)

[Jason Wood]

2010 Player Spotlight Series

One of Footballguys best assets is our message board community. The Shark Pool is, in our view, the best place on the internet to discuss, debate and analyze all things fantasy football. In what's become an annual tradition, the Player Spotlight series is a key part of the preseason efforts. As many of you know, we consider the Player Spotlight threads the permanent record for analyzing the fantasy prospects of the player in question. This year, we plan to publish more than 140 offensive spotlights covering the vast majority of expected skill position starters.

Each week we will post a list of players to be discussed. Those threads will remain open for the entire preseason, and should be a central point to discussion expectations for the player in question. Importantly, analysis done in the first week of posting will be part of the permanent record in two ways. 1) At the end of the week, we will tally the projections into a consensus. 2) We will select a number of pull quotes from forum contributors who make a compelling statement or observation. Both the projections and pull quotes will be part of a published article on the main website.

Thread Topic: Jay Cutler, QB, Chicago Bears

Player Page Link: Jay Cutler Player Page

Each article will include:

[*]Detailed viewpoint from a Footballguys staff member

[*]Highlighted member commentary from the message board threads

[*]FBG Projections

[*]Consensus Member Projections

The Rules

In order for this thread to provide maximum value, we ask that you follow a few simple guidelines:

[*]Focus commentary on the player (or players) in question, and your expectations for said player (or players)

[*]Back up your expectations in whatever manner you deem appropriate; avoid posts that simply say "I hate him" or "He's the best"

[*]Avoid redundancies or ... this should be about incremental analysis or debate

While not a requirement, we strongly encourage you to provide your own projections for the player (players):

Projections should include:

[*]For QBs: Attempts, Completions, Passing Yards, Passing TDs, Ints, Rush Attempts, Rush Yards, Rush TDs

[*]For RBs: Rushes, Rushing Yards, Rush TDs, Receptions, Receiving Yards, Receiving TDs

[*]For WRs & TEs: Receptions, Receiving Yards, Receiving TDs

Now let's get on with the conversation! We look forward to your contributions and let me offer a personal thanks in anticipation of the great debate and analysis.

 

[Jayrod]

I don't even know where to begin, but as a dynasty owner,

 

[Iraqi Information Minister]

4000/30/22

 

[cobalt_27]

I think the addition of Martz should make Cutler outplay his drafted/auction value.

In years prior to his arrival and following his departure from the Rams, Lions, and 49ers, those teams averaged:

3343 YDS

17 TDs

16 INTs

6.2 YPA

In Martz's first year with each of those teams, they averaged:

4170 YDS

28 TDs

20 INTs

7.7 YPA

For a difference of +828 YDS, +11 TDs and +4 INTs, and +1.4 YPA

Even if you remove the Rams from the equation (including Martz's brilliant 1999 first season as coordinator and the awful 1998 and 2006 campaigns that preceded and followed him), you still get a bump of

+964 YDS, +5 TDS, +3 INT, and +1.3 YPA

I predict Cutler will go for the following:



545 ATT, 4088 YDS, 28 TD, 20 INT, 7.5 YPA

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

Cutler didn't do as well in Chicago as many had hoped as he passed for almost 1000 yards less last season that the year before. This season, Martz is in charge of the Bears offense and now there's a bunch of hype about the possibility of what this guy can now do in a Martz offense. The bottom line is that Martz or any coach needs the horses to make an offense work. When he had Kurt Warner, Marshall Faulk, Isaac Bruce and Tory Holt.....he had 4 Hall of Fame type players in the skilled positions. When you have players like that, just about any play will work, that's when coaching football is fun.

It's not like that in Chicago. The running game isn't good enough to keep the pressure on Cutler. Cutler makes a lot of mistakes with his gunslinger attitude and I expect to see more of the same as last year. I'd be surprised to see some big turn around this upcoming season but wouldn't mind be proved wrong.

3745, 27 td and 24 int 150 yards rushing and 1td

 

[Tau837]

With regard to the Martz factor, IMO it is appropriate to focus more on what he did in Detroit and San Francisco than on what he did in St. Louis. For one thing, his Detroit and SF experience is more recent. But more importantly, his St. Louis teams were loaded with HOF caliber offensive talent (Warner, Faulk, Holt, Bruce, Pace), and he clearly doesn't have that in Chicago.

Some potentially relevant data on those three teams and Chicago last year with Cutler:

Detroit 2006: 963 total offensive plays, 596 passing attempts, 63 sacks, 34 QB rushing attempts... so I'd estimate about 680 called passing plays... more than 70%

Detroit 2007: 965 total offensive plays, 587 passing attempts, 54 sacks, 29 QB rushing attempts... so I'd estimate about 660 called passing plays... about 68%

San Francisco 2008: 961 total offensive plays, 509 passing attempts, 55 sacks, 54 QB rushing attempts... so I'd estimate about 575 called passing plays... about 60%

Chicago 2009: 971 total offensive plays, 563 passing attempts, 35 sacks, 40 QB rushing attempts... so I'd estimate about 625 called passing plays... about 60%

IMO Chicago falls in between Detroit (better receiving options and poorer running game) and San Francisco (better running game and equally poor receiving options) from a situation/personnel perspective. I think with Chicago's history of running and defense and the Chicago weather in the latter part of the season, Lovie Smith would probably prefer to more closely emulate San Francisco than Detroit, so I expect them to be a lot more balanced than Detroit was. In support of this, it is worth noting that the Bears signed Chester Taylor, and Matt Forte was apparently playing hurt last year and should be in better health, and thus perhaps will perform better this year. However, Cutler is a much better QB than Martz had in San Francisco, and Taylor/Forte are not likely to be as good as Frank Gore, so I do think they will pass more often than Martz's 49ers team.

All that said, I think it's fair to project Chicago for the following:

963 offensive plays

550 passing attempts

40 sacks

40 rushing attempts for Cutler

It's tough to say that, because that leaves only 333 rushing attempts for players other than Cutler. But I think these estimates are reasonable.

On 563 attempts last year, Cutler had 3666 passing yards, 27 TDs, and 26 interceptions. His ypa was just 6.6. With Martz, I expect that will go up, but IMO how much it will go up is capped by the quality of his WRs (or lack thereof). I'll estimate it will go up to 7.1 ypa.

His poor judgment on all the interceptions last year was surprising. He had 3 interceptions on balls thrown behind the line of scrimmage alone! I think those will come down, but probably not as much as others may think, since I expect Martz will still be encouraging him to be aggressive and take chances... and WR quality is again a small factor here.

There is a natural temptation to see his TD progression over the past few years from 20 to 25 to 27 and assume it will go up again. However, Chicago had just 6 rushing TDs last year after 15 in 2008. I think they will look to balance their red zone and goal line attacks a bit more, and Taylor and a healthy Forte should be better than what Chicago had at RB last season. So I think Cutler's TDs will come down a bit.

Projections:

550 passing attempts, 3905 yards (7.1 ypa), 25 TDs, and 21 interceptions

40 rushing attempts, 160 yards (4.0 ypc), 1 TD

 

[rzrback77]

Jay Cutler has a great arm and he has brought high expectations with him everywhere he has been. He was the only hope that his college team had as Vanderbilt always seemed to be outmanned in the SEC. He was highly drafted at #11 overall for the Broncos in 06 and played for them as a rookie in the last five games of the year. He had initial success with almost 60% completions over 7.3 ypa and 9 TDs compared to only 5 ints.

Moving on to 07, he started all 16 games for the Broncos, yet he did not improve as much as anticipated. His completion percentage rose slightly to 63.6% and his ypa rose to 7.49, but his TD to int ratio was much lower with 20 TDs and 14 ints. The Broncos finished 7-9 for their worst record since 99.

In 08, it was not any better. The Broncos finished 8-8 and although they passes for more yardage than they had in quite a while, Cutler's completion percentage, ypa, and TD% all dropped. He threw for over 4,500 yards and 25 TDs, but had 18 ints and they were still losing.

The off-season between 08 and 09 brought Shanahan's dismissal and Cutler demanded to be traded. His leadership was never questioned more. Chicago welcomed him with open arms, but for such a valuable asset, the Broncos didn't seem to mind losing him.

Cutler's first season as a Bear saw all his stats drop. His completion percentage fell from 62.3% down to 60.5%. His ypa fell to a career low of 6.61. His TDs went up to 27, but the ints rose more all the way to 26 and 4.7% of his attempts.

For 2010, the hype is building as Martz comes to town. He should improve his stats from last year, but his current ADP of QB 8 and overall 66 is much too rich for me. I still question his leadership and see him as thinking he is more important than his team and that is just not a good philosophy for your QB. I see another losing season ahead for Cutler and the Bears.

Jay Cutler 16 gms 342 complete 570 attempts 60.0% 3819 yards 6.7 ypa 25 TDs 21 ints with 120 rushing yds and 2 TDs

edited to add TDs and ints

 

[Blackjacks]

Jay Cutler has a great arm and he has brought high expectations with him everywhere he has been. He was the only hope that his college team had as Vanderbilt always seemed to be outmanned in the SEC. He was highly drafted at #11 overall for the Broncos in 06 and played for them as a rookie in the last five games of the year. He had initial success with almost 60% completions over 7.3 ypa and 9 TDs compared to only 5 ints. Moving on to 07, he started all 16 games for the Broncos, yet he did not improve as much as anticipated. His completion percentage rose slightly to 63.6% and his ypa rose to 7.49, but his TD to int ratio was much lower with 20 TDs and 14 ints. The Broncos finished 7-9 for their worst record since 99.In 08, it was not any better. The Broncos finished 8-8 and although they passes for more yardage than they had in quite a while, Cutler's completion percentage, ypa, and TD% all dropped. He threw for over 4,500 yards and 25 TDs, but had 18 ints and they were still losing.The off-season between 08 and 09 brought Shanahan's dismissal and Cutler demanded to be traded. His leadership was never questioned more. Chicago welcomed him with open arms, but for such a valuable asset, the Broncos didn't seem to mind losing him.Cutler's first season as a Bear saw all his stats drop. His completion percentage fell from 62.3% down to 60.5%. His ypa fell to a career low of 6.61. His TDs went up to 27, but the ints rose more all the way to 26 and 4.7% of his attempts.For 2010, the hype is building as Martz comes to town. He should improve his stats from last year, but his current ADP of QB 8 and overall 66 is much too rich for me. I still question his leadership and see him as thinking he is more important than his team and that is just not a good philosophy for your QB. I see another losing season ahead for Cutler and the Bears.Jay Cutler 16 gms 342 complete 570 attempts 60.0% 3819 yards 6.7 ypa with 120 rushing yds and 2 TDs

How many td's and ints????I see a good year for Cutler as I see him passing alot this year. I'm not saying I think Chicago will be good but I think Culter will outproduce his ADP.4200 yards 32 tds' 16 int's160 rushing yards 1 tdI could see him sneaking into the top 5

 

[swirvenirvin]

 

[BoulderBob]

His first year in a new system had its highs and lows, as most experts predicted. Unfortunately, Cutler is tossed into a new system once again, albeit a potentially great system for QB's.

In 2011 or 2012, he may finish as the #1 fantasy QB, but the coming season will be a learning experience of sorts once again. Still see elite talent in Cutler, time will tell.

320/500, 3800yds, 28passTD, 18int, 50rushatt, 220 ruyards, 3 rushtds

 

[nysportsfan]

Not much chatter on Cutler, surprisingly. I think he could win people their leagues if he hits. Still not sure on where to place him, but I am banking on him taking a big step this year.

 

[Mene]

364/584 4096 28/21

This guy (Martz) got 4k out of Jon Kitna not so long ago. I think the Bears are better team than that Lion's team, with more explosive receivers, and Cutler is a lot better than Kitna. I just don't think Lovie will reign Martz in like Singletary did, so I think we'll see something closer to the Detroit days than the Niner's days of Martz.

 

[Kool-Aid Larry]

I think if you get points for qb sacked he's the steal of the draft.

 

[Aardvarks]

I believe Cutler has the most all-around physical talent of any QB Martz has had, even Warner. The arm is special, almost perfect in design. Once-in-a-decade bazooka. He also runs very well and buys himself more time, often so he can launch a 30-yard laser off his back foot. But can Cutler--

--process Martz' schemes & settle for the hook routes like Warner did?

--throw a touch pass down the seams to grab in-stride like Warner did?

--make the right decision in the red zone every time like Warner did?

He definitely has a learning curve ahead of him and will have to be sharp to execute properly. However, Jon Kitna sprayed it around for 4200 yards and 21 TDs one year with Martz and he was just a journeyman who studied hard. Cutler can do a lot with Martz holding the playbook, and a rising tide lifts all boats. The WRs aren't sexy but collectively there are talents sprinkled around Cutler's huddle. Forte and Taylor will get YAC to help out.

I love Cutler as a QB1 if your league doesn't penalize for INTs. Even then, his rushing numbers will cancel out a pick here and there. The best thing is, Cutler could be the cheapest legitimate QB1 you can own this year, emulating Romo and Brady who go 2-3 rounds higher, sometimes 4 rounds higher.

359-for-580, 61.9%, 4210 passing yards, 29 TD passes, 19 INTs, 135 rush yds, 3 TD runs

(don't forget a few 2-point conversions, which Martz tries often)

Possible Pro Bowl if the Bears win 8+ games and he keeps pace with Brees, Romo and Rodgers.

Yes, I drafted him as my QB1... for all the reasons above.

 

[Banger]

I like Cutler but the sacks and the line worry me. He can't pass if he's on his back.

 

[otis68]

I like Cutler but the sacks and the line worry me. He can't pass if he's on his back.

This is the kicker. You've got to draft a high quality backup for Cutler, because he's going to get slaughtered. Odds of him playing every game this season seem pretty low right now.

 

[Jayrod]

I like Cutler but the sacks and the line worry me. He can't pass if he's on his back.

This is the kicker. You've got to draft a high quality backup for Cutler, because he's going to get slaughtered. Odds of him playing every game this season seem pretty low right now.

He's never missed a game as a pro. Like Favre & Peyton, Cutler has a quick release and knows how to get out of the pocket without getting hit hard very often.He did have a pretty bad stretch for a while with a messed up finger or hand I think, but he has played in every game for three straight seasons now.

 

[Banger]

I like Cutler but the sacks and the line worry me. He can't pass if he's on his back.

This is the kicker. You've got to draft a high quality backup for Cutler, because he's going to get slaughtered. Odds of him playing every game this season seem pretty low right now.

He's never missed a game as a pro. Like Favre & Peyton, Cutler has a quick release and knows how to get out of the pocket without getting hit hard very often.He did have a pretty bad stretch for a while with a messed up finger or hand I think, but he has played in every game for three straight seasons now.

The fact that he hasn't been injured doesn't mean he won't be injured. I don't think Brady missed a game until he ended up missing a season. The more hellacious hits a QB takes (or any player for that matter) the greater chance that one of them ends up injuring the player.

 

[Jayrod]

I like Cutler but the sacks and the line worry me. He can't pass if he's on his back.

This is the kicker. You've got to draft a high quality backup for Cutler, because he's going to get slaughtered. Odds of him playing every game this season seem pretty low right now.

He's never missed a game as a pro. Like Favre & Peyton, Cutler has a quick release and knows how to get out of the pocket without getting hit hard very often.He did have a pretty bad stretch for a while with a messed up finger or hand I think, but he has played in every game for three straight seasons now.

The fact that he hasn't been injured doesn't mean he won't be injured. I don't think Brady missed a game until he ended up missing a season. The more hellacious hits a QB takes (or any player for that matter) the greater chance that one of them ends up injuring the player.

Brady's injury was a fluky play and they've since instituted rules to stop something similar from happening.Favre and Peyton have never missed time.

 

[One]

Just ended up with Cutler in the 6th of a 14 team PPR.

Having never owned him before and having no idea what to expect I took a look at his '09 game log. Jeebus, talk about hot & cold, but it seemed like he settled in for the last two weeks against MIN & DET.

Chicago homers, what was it about his last 2 games of '09 that clicked? Did they spread the offense? Or did he just happen to not self-destruct.

 

[Banger]

I like Cutler but the sacks and the line worry me. He can't pass if he's on his back.

This is the kicker. You've got to draft a high quality backup for Cutler, because he's going to get slaughtered. Odds of him playing every game this season seem pretty low right now.

:IBTL:He's never missed a game as a pro. Like Favre & Peyton, Cutler has a quick release and knows how to get out of the pocket without getting hit hard very often.He did have a pretty bad stretch for a while with a messed up finger or hand I think, but he has played in every game for three straight seasons now.

The fact that he hasn't been injured doesn't mean he won't be injured. I don't think Brady missed a game until he ended up missing a season. The more hellacious hits a QB takes (or any player for that matter) the greater chance that one of them ends up injuring the player.

Brady's injury was a fluky play and they've since instituted rules to stop something similar from happening.Favre and Peyton have never missed time.

I'm a fan of Cutler and he may end up on some of my teams but I will have to get a decent backup because I think he's going to get beat up pretty good.

 

[otis68]

I like Cutler but the sacks and the line worry me. He can't pass if he's on his back.

This is the kicker. You've got to draft a high quality backup for Cutler, because he's going to get slaughtered. Odds of him playing every game this season seem pretty low right now.

:IBTL:He's never missed a game as a pro. Like Favre & Peyton, Cutler has a quick release and knows how to get out of the pocket without getting hit hard very often.He did have a pretty bad stretch for a while with a messed up finger or hand I think, but he has played in every game for three straight seasons now.

You realize Cutler got sacked 5 times in the first half of the preseason game vs Oakland?He got sacked and hurried in the one series he played in the first game, and the backups got sacked 5 more times.In the preseason he's getting slapped around like a rag doll. Has me nervous (especially since I drafted him as (hopefully) an 8th round steal last weekend)

 

[Football Critic]

I like Cutler but the sacks and the line worry me. He can't pass if he's on his back.

This is the kicker. You've got to draft a high quality backup for Cutler, because he's going to get slaughtered. Odds of him playing every game this season seem pretty low right now.

He's never missed a game as a pro. Like Favre & Peyton, Cutler has a quick release and knows how to get out of the pocket without getting hit hard very often.He did have a pretty bad stretch for a while with a messed up finger or hand I think, but he has played in every game for three straight seasons now.

You realize Cutler got sacked 5 times in the first half of the preseason game vs Oakland?He got sacked and hurried in the one series he played in the first game, and the backups got sacked 5 more times.In the preseason he's getting slapped around like a rag doll. Has me nervous (especially since I drafted him as (hopefully) an 8th round steal last weekend)

It's the PRESEASON

 

[otis68]

I like Cutler but the sacks and the line worry me. He can't pass if he's on his back.

This is the kicker. You've got to draft a high quality backup for Cutler, because he's going to get slaughtered. Odds of him playing every game this season seem pretty low right now.

He's never missed a game as a pro. Like Favre & Peyton, Cutler has a quick release and knows how to get out of the pocket without getting hit hard very often.He did have a pretty bad stretch for a while with a messed up finger or hand I think, but he has played in every game for three straight seasons now.

You realize Cutler got sacked 5 times in the first half of the preseason game vs Oakland?He got sacked and hurried in the one series he played in the first game, and the backups got sacked 5 more times.In the preseason he's getting slapped around like a rag doll. Has me nervous (especially since I drafted him as (hopefully) an 8th round steal last weekend)

It's the PRESEASON

How many teams set out to get their franchise QB sacked 5 times in 30 min in a preseason game? If you can't block em in the preseason, how you gonna block them in the regular season? Perhaps I'm missing something here, but this is running a big red flag up the pole for me.

 

[Woogie Lee]

This is the kicker. You've got to draft a high quality backup for Cutler, because he's going to get slaughtered. Odds of him playing every game this season seem pretty low right now.

He's never missed a game as a pro. Like Favre & Peyton, Cutler has a quick release and knows how to get out of the pocket without getting hit hard very often.He did have a pretty bad stretch for a while with a messed up finger or hand I think, but he has played in every game for three straight seasons now.

You realize Cutler got sacked 5 times in the first half of the preseason game vs Oakland?He got sacked and hurried in the one series he played in the first game, and the backups got sacked 5 more times.In the preseason he's getting slapped around like a rag doll. Has me nervous (especially since I drafted him as (hopefully) an 8th round steal last weekend)

It's the PRESEASON

How many teams set out to get their franchise QB sacked 5 times in 30 min in a preseason game? If you can't block em in the preseason, how you gonna block them in the regular season?

You are right...teams don't practice around their weaknesses that are exposed in the preseason. Good call.

 

[Shutout]

I think a lot of people are going to be disappointed in Cutler compared to where they draft him. The consensus logic seems to be that Martzs' presence translates into throwing a ton and getting huge numbers.

The problem with that logic is that Cutler already threw a ton. he had more pass attempts last year than everyone except Brady, Manning, and Shaub. So the issue isn't with his offense and pass attempts; its with his production. Argue it however you want; whether its him, his line, his receivers, etc, but at the end of the day, he's not getting as much FF bang for the buck despite throwing for only 10 passes or so less than Manning and the other elites.

His success is going to be in him being a better player, not being a player who throws more and Martz's success has been the exact opposite. What he did in Detroit and San Francisco was the result of More, not better...Otherwise, had he truly mad the players better, he probably wouldn't be in Chicago. Those players' numbers increased because of "same production, more opportunities". The Bears really can't increase opportunities any more wihtout being on pace for setting all-time attempt records and I don't think Cutler can survive 60-100 more drop backs into the pocket. So, at the end of the day, Martz has to make Cutler better, not just throw more and he hasn't shown he can do that during his last 3 jobs.

 

[cobalt_27]

I think a lot of people are going to be disappointed in Cutler compared to where they draft him. The consensus logic seems to be that Martzs' presence translates into throwing a ton and getting huge numbers. The problem with that logic is that Cutler already threw a ton. he had more pass attempts last year than everyone except Brady, Manning, and Shaub. So the issue isn't with his offense and pass attempts; its with his production. Argue it however you want; whether its him, his line, his receivers, etc, but at the end of the day, he's not getting as much FF bang for the buck despite throwing for only 10 passes or so less than Manning and the other elites.His success is going to be in him being a better player, not being a player who throws more and Martz's success has been the exact opposite. What he did in Detroit and San Francisco was the result of More, not better...Otherwise, had he truly mad the players better, he probably wouldn't be in Chicago. Those players' numbers increased because of "same production, more opportunities". The Bears really can't increase opportunities any more wihtout being on pace for setting all-time attempt records and I don't think Cutler can survive 60-100 more drop backs into the pocket. So, at the end of the day, Martz has to make Cutler better, not just throw more and he hasn't shown he can do that during his last 3 jobs.

If you look at YPA for the years Martz had tenure over the Lions and Niners...and then look at the bookend years around those that he wasn't there...there's a significant difference. Martz may be crazy and put his QBs at risk for sacks and INTs. But, for fantasy purposes, he knows how to craft a very productive passing game that goes well beyond the fact that his teams typically pass more than the others.

 

[TWP]

I think a lot of people are going to be disappointed in Cutler compared to where they draft him. The consensus logic seems to be that Martzs' presence translates into throwing a ton and getting huge numbers. The problem with that logic is that Cutler already threw a ton. he had more pass attempts last year than everyone except Brady, Manning, and Shaub. So the issue isn't with his offense and pass attempts; its with his production. Argue it however you want; whether its him, his line, his receivers, etc, but at the end of the day, he's not getting as much FF bang for the buck despite throwing for only 10 passes or so less than Manning and the other elites.His success is going to be in him being a better player, not being a player who throws more and Martz's success has been the exact opposite. What he did in Detroit and San Francisco was the result of More, not better...Otherwise, had he truly mad the players better, he probably wouldn't be in Chicago. Those players' numbers increased because of "same production, more opportunities". The Bears really can't increase opportunities any more wihtout being on pace for setting all-time attempt records and I don't think Cutler can survive 60-100 more drop backs into the pocket. So, at the end of the day, Martz has to make Cutler better, not just throw more and he hasn't shown he can do that during his last 3 jobs.

If you look at YPA for the years Martz had tenure over the Lions and Niners...and then look at the bookend years around those that he wasn't there...there's a significant difference. Martz may be crazy and put his QBs at risk for sacks and INTs. But, for fantasy purposes, he knows how to craft a very productive passing game that goes well beyond the fact that his teams typically pass more than the others.

Yup. I'll happily take a vintage Kitna fantasy season from Cutler.

 

[mbuehner]

It's the PRESEASON

How many teams set out to get their franchise QB sacked 5 times in 30 min in a preseason game? If you can't block em in the preseason, how you gonna block them in the regular season?

You are right...teams don't practice around their weaknesses that are exposed in the preseason. Good call.

'Ok guys, we've had a good camp so far, but today we're going to do something different and learn to block. The defense is working on tackling.' Don't think it goes that way. How do you teach an o-line full of nobodys (or in Krutz's case a was somebody) how to be good at football? How do you scheme for a line that can't stop (or even slow down) Oakland? 9 guys in, 1 guy runs a route? We're hearing reports that Peppers is consistently embarrassing Williams so badly in practice they are worried about his psyche. And that's your best prospect on the line. This offense is in really bad trouble and they may have to run the ball just to keep Cutler alive. It doesn't matter what your scheme is if you can't block it.

 

[Jayrod]

It's the PRESEASON

How many teams set out to get their franchise QB sacked 5 times in 30 min in a preseason game? If you can't block em in the preseason, how you gonna block them in the regular season?

You are right...teams don't practice around their weaknesses that are exposed in the preseason. Good call.

'Ok guys, we've had a good camp so far, but today we're going to do something different and learn to block. The defense is working on tackling.' Don't think it goes that way. How do you teach an o-line full of nobodys (or in Krutz's case a was somebody) how to be good at football? How do you scheme for a line that can't stop (or even slow down) Oakland? 9 guys in, 1 guy runs a route? We're hearing reports that Peppers is consistently embarrassing Williams so badly in practice they are worried about his psyche. And that's your best prospect on the line. This offense is in really bad trouble and they may have to run the ball just to keep Cutler alive. It doesn't matter what your scheme is if you can't block it.

Oakland's defense is very good and Peppers is one of the best D-linemen in the game.I've seen it pointed out elsewhere, but you likely want to grab a quality backup for Cutler for weeks when they face a tough pass rush as the Bears will likely struggle, but Cutler will have some very big games against subpar pass rushes.

 

[mbuehner]

Oakland's defense is very good and Peppers is one of the best D-linemen in the game.I've seen it pointed out elsewhere, but you likely want to grab a quality backup for Cutler for weeks when they face a tough pass rush as the Bears will likely struggle, but Cutler will have some very big games against subpar pass rushes.

Here's to hoping the Bears don't play against very good players. Thats not to say they can actually be effective against average players either, but not being made to look foolish is something I guess. Even bad teams will load up their pass rush and go after Cutler. There is blood in the water already.Cutler could have some monster games. His problem is that to go along with his lack of pass protection, he has a stable of very inexperienced WRs who have shown an inability to help him out when he gets in trouble. I think over the course of the season, they'll improve, but to start out its going to be reminiscent of the worst moments of last season, if not worse.Its too bad- I think Cutler could really thrive in Chicago if he had some tools. Neglecting the o-line all these years is going to be the downfall of the entire Bears regime I think, and this is the season the wheels finally come off. I really hope Cutler survives it, because he's better than that.

 

[RBM]

Its too bad- I think Cutler could really thrive in Chicago if he had some tools. Neglecting the o-line all these years is going to be the downfall of the entire Bears regime I think, and this is the season the wheels finally come off. I really hope Cutler survives it, because he's better than that.

Its unbelievable because the writing has been on the wall, GLARING at Angelo for years now. The fans have seen it, why hasnt this dope?

 

[RBM]

Just ended up with Cutler in the 6th of a 14 team PPR.Having never owned him before and having no idea what to expect I took a look at his '09 game log. Jeebus, talk about hot & cold, but it seemed like he settled in for the last two weeks against MIN & DET.Chicago homers, what was it about his last 2 games of '09 that clicked? Did they spread the offense? Or did he just happen to not self-destruct.

Seriously, it was Aromashodu and Chris Williams. Williams finally settled in to the LT slot, where Pace had been horrible, and Cutler got the guy he was asking for all season in Aromashodu. They really were in sync and Aroma made some big plays and was a big target.

 

[Iwannabeacowboybaby!]

Cutler opens up at home versus the Lions. We'll be able to see what's going on after that game. If he doesn't put up 300 yards and 3 td's in that situation, a huge red flag goes up. I don't want to hear it takes time for a new system. It doesn't get any softer than playing the Lions at home for an offense. He doesn't produce quality fantasy numbers in Week 1, he will definately underperform yet again for the season from where he's getting drafted this season.

 

[BoulderBob]

Cutler opens up at home versus the Lions. We'll be able to see what's going on after that game. If he doesn't put up 300 yards and 3 td's in that situation, a huge red flag goes up. I don't want to hear it takes time for a new system. It doesn't get any softer than playing the Lions at home for an offense. He doesn't produce quality fantasy numbers in Week 1, he will definately underperform yet again for the season from where he's getting drafted this season.

you may not want to hear the "playing in a new system" excuse, but it's about as valid as an excuse gets. Cutler will be a top 5-10 QB this season, with the potential for a top 3 finish, but I excpect him to be a top 3 stud by 2011-12 IF Martz and company stick around. If he has to go through four new systems in four years? Talk about terrible luck...he still has the arm/talent to be a stud fantasy QB at any point over the next decade, but those changes really screw with a QB's confidence.

Now that Forte is healthy once again, and this http://www.nfl.com/videos/chicago-bears/09...rte-all-the-way makes me think he will perform like a top 5 RB. That explosiveness was not there last season due to pre-season injuries...anyway, time will tell. But Cutler in the 6th/7th will win many a fantasy team championships this year, imo...

 

[Jayrod]

Cutler opens up at home versus the Lions. We'll be able to see what's going on after that game. If he doesn't put up 300 yards and 3 td's in that situation, a huge red flag goes up. I don't want to hear it takes time for a new system. It doesn't get any softer than playing the Lions at home for an offense. He doesn't produce quality fantasy numbers in Week 1, he will definately underperform yet again for the season from where he's getting drafted this season.

The Lions pass rush is actually very good this year. Their D-line is the strength of that team. The LB's & DB's aren't that great, but the Bears won't face a much better front 4 all year. Seriously, Avril, Vanden Bosch, Williams & all-world talent rookie Suh are a force.I expect there to be some sacks, but there will also be some real opportunities downfield when Cutler has time. Don't be too disappointed with only 250 yds, 2 TD's & 2 INT's.However, I'm seeing that game as a bit of a shootout because the Lions O is much better than the Bears D as well.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Cutler opens up at home versus the Lions. We'll be able to see what's going on after that game. If he doesn't put up 300 yards and 3 td's in that situation, a huge red flag goes up. I don't want to hear it takes time for a new system. It doesn't get any softer than playing the Lions at home for an offense. He doesn't produce quality fantasy numbers in Week 1, he will definately underperform yet again for the season from where he's getting drafted this season.

The Lions pass rush is actually very good this year. Their D-line is the strength of that team. The LB's & DB's aren't that great, but the Bears won't face a much better front 4 all year. Seriously, Avril, Vanden Bosch, Williams & all-world talent rookie Suh are a force.I expect there to be some sacks, but there will also be some real opportunities downfield when Cutler has time. Don't be too disappointed with only 250 yds, 2 TD's & 2 INT's.

However, I'm seeing that game as a bit of a shootout because the Lions O is much better than the Bears D as well.

That hype train is going again.Lions Oline vs Bears DL....Bears DL

Lions TE's & RB's vs Bears LB's.....Bears LB's

Lions WR's vs Bears Seconardy.....Lions WR's

 

[One]

Now that Forte is healthy once again, and this http://www.nfl.com/videos/chicago-bears/09...rte-all-the-way makes me think he will perform like a top 5 RB. That explosiveness was not there last season due to pre-season injuries...anyway, time will tell. But Cutler in the 6th/7th will win many a fantasy team championships this year, imo...

No offense, but to me this looks more like a terrible job by the Raiders defense, than it does a great play by Forte.How has he looked this preseason besides this long run?

 

[Ghost Rider]

Bottom line is, if you get Cutler, do not start him when the Bears play at night. Except for the Vikings game in week 16, he was awful in their night games.

 

[gethugefast1]

Bottom line is, if you get Cutler, do not start him when the Bears play at night. Except for the Vikings game in week 16, he was awful in their night games.

Week 3 Mon, Sep 27 Green Bay 8:30 PM Week 4 Sun, Oct 3 at NY Giants 8:20 PM Week 11 Thu, Nov 18 at Miami 8:20 PM Week 15 Mon, Dec 20 at Minnesota 8:30 PMAll the rest: 1:00 PM

 

[Jayrod]

Cutler opens up at home versus the Lions. We'll be able to see what's going on after that game. If he doesn't put up 300 yards and 3 td's in that situation, a huge red flag goes up. I don't want to hear it takes time for a new system. It doesn't get any softer than playing the Lions at home for an offense. He doesn't produce quality fantasy numbers in Week 1, he will definately underperform yet again for the season from where he's getting drafted this season.

The Lions pass rush is actually very good this year. Their D-line is the strength of that team. The LB's & DB's aren't that great, but the Bears won't face a much better front 4 all year. Seriously, Avril, Vanden Bosch, Williams & all-world talent rookie Suh are a force.I expect there to be some sacks, but there will also be some real opportunities downfield when Cutler has time. Don't be too disappointed with only 250 yds, 2 TD's & 2 INT's.

However, I'm seeing that game as a bit of a shootout because the Lions O is much better than the Bears D as well.

That hype train is going again.Lions Oline vs Bears DL....Bears DL

Lions TE's & RB's vs Bears LB's.....Bears LB's

Lions WR's vs Bears Seconardy.....Lions WR's

What about Lions QB? I'll give you the line comparison, but that TE/RB vs. LB is very close, if not in favor of the Lions....Urlacher isn't the same guy that was the face of the league a few seasons ago.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

Cutler opens up at home versus the Lions. We'll be able to see what's going on after that game. If he doesn't put up 300 yards and 3 td's in that situation, a huge red flag goes up. I don't want to hear it takes time for a new system. It doesn't get any softer than playing the Lions at home for an offense. He doesn't produce quality fantasy numbers in Week 1, he will definately underperform yet again for the season from where he's getting drafted this season.

The Lions pass rush is actually very good this year. Their D-line is the strength of that team. The LB's & DB's aren't that great, but the Bears won't face a much better front 4 all year. Seriously, Avril, Vanden Bosch, Williams & all-world talent rookie Suh are a force.I expect there to be some sacks, but there will also be some real opportunities downfield when Cutler has time. Don't be too disappointed with only 250 yds, 2 TD's & 2 INT's.

However, I'm seeing that game as a bit of a shootout because the Lions O is much better than the Bears D as well.

That hype train is going again.Lions Oline vs Bears DL....Bears DL

Lions TE's & RB's vs Bears LB's.....Bears LB's

Lions WR's vs Bears Seconardy.....Lions WR's

What about Lions QB? I'll give you the line comparison, but that TE/RB vs. LB is very close, if not in favor of the Lions....Urlacher isn't the same guy that was the face of the league a few seasons ago.

What are u smoking? The lions are all hype.Stafford....played what half a season and didn't look like Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco in their first seasons.

Jahvid Best/Kevin Smith/Brandon Pettigrew/Scheffler vs Urlacher/Briggs/Tinoisamoa.

Hmmm....a hyped up rookie that is injury prone....Kevin Smith who had a poor sophomore campaign and major injury.....Pettigrew who is coming off of major injury and has <1 yr exp....and Scheffler is an above average pass catching TE

vs

Brian Urlacher(who missed 15.5 games last season) which I think is a bonus b/c of his neck/back injury

Lance Briggs who is and has been the Bears best LB for awhile now

Pisa Tinoisamoa who led the Rams in tackles not too long ago but was injured very early last season as well.

So two potential HOF players and another solid LB vs the hype train.....not even close.

 

[cvnpoka]

cutler is gonna wing it with martz. hes gonna turn it over a ton too.

615 attempts, .635 comp%, 12.1 ypc, 4764 yards, 29ptds, 2rtds, 200ryrds, 25int, 6 fumbles.

 

[Mene]

Cutler opens up at home versus the Lions. We'll be able to see what's going on after that game. If he doesn't put up 300 yards and 3 td's in that situation, a huge red flag goes up. I don't want to hear it takes time for a new system. It doesn't get any softer than playing the Lions at home for an offense. He doesn't produce quality fantasy numbers in Week 1, he will definately underperform yet again for the season from where he's getting drafted this season.

The Lions pass rush is actually very good this year. Their D-line is the strength of that team. The LB's & DB's aren't that great, but the Bears won't face a much better front 4 all year. Seriously, Avril, Vanden Bosch, Williams & all-world talent rookie Suh are a force.I expect there to be some sacks, but there will also be some real opportunities downfield when Cutler has time. Don't be too disappointed with only 250 yds, 2 TD's & 2 INT's.

However, I'm seeing that game as a bit of a shootout because the Lions O is much better than the Bears D as well.

That hype train is going again.Lions Oline vs Bears DL....Bears DL

Lions TE's & RB's vs Bears LB's.....Bears LB's

Lions WR's vs Bears Seconardy.....Lions WR's

What about Lions QB? I'll give you the line comparison, but that TE/RB vs. LB is very close, if not in favor of the Lions....Urlacher isn't the same guy that was the face of the league a few seasons ago.

What are u smoking? The lions are all hype.Stafford....played what half a season and didn't look like Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco in their first seasons.

Jahvid Best/Kevin Smith/Brandon Pettigrew/Scheffler vs Urlacher/Briggs/Tinoisamoa.

Hmmm....a hyped up rookie that is injury prone....Kevin Smith who had a poor sophomore campaign and major injury.....Pettigrew who is coming off of major injury and has <1 yr exp....and Scheffler is an above average pass catching TE

vs

Brian Urlacher(who missed 15.5 games last season) which I think is a bonus b/c of his neck/back injury

Lance Briggs who is and has been the Bears best LB for awhile now

Pisa Tinoisamoa who led the Rams in tackles not too long ago but was injured very early last season as well.

So two potential HOF players and another solid LB vs the hype train.....not even close.

Who is the second "potential" HoF player you refering to?

 

[shnikies]

Just ended up with Cutler in the 6th of a 14 team PPR.Having never owned him before and having no idea what to expect I took a look at his '09 game log. Jeebus, talk about hot & cold, but it seemed like he settled in for the last two weeks against MIN & DET.Chicago homers, what was it about his last 2 games of '09 that clicked? Did they spread the offense? Or did he just happen to not self-destruct.

The last two games he found a rhythm with Aromashimalamadingdong. I think Cutler's biggest problem last year was his head. He probably didn't feel the pressure when he was playing in meaningless games at the end. It's hard watching him slowly walk off the field with his helmet pulled down over his eyes after he makes a mistake. If he get's a good sports psychologist that can teach him a quarterback's greatest weapon, a short memory, then the sky is the limit. Anyone who says he sucks or he's great needs to hold off on judgment until we see him this year. I really have no idea what to expect. I'm a Bears fan and I'm just hoping for the best. I think he'll finish somewhere between the 1st and 32nd best fantasy quarterbacks.

 

[Jayrod]

What are u smoking? The lions are all hype.

Stafford....played what half a season and didn't look like Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco in their first seasons.

Jahvid Best/Kevin Smith/Brandon Pettigrew/Scheffler vs Urlacher/Briggs/Tinoisamoa.

Hmmm....a hyped up rookie that is injury prone....Kevin Smith who had a poor sophomore campaign and major injury.....Pettigrew who is coming off of major injury and has <1 yr exp....and Scheffler is an above average pass catching TE

vs

Brian Urlacher(who missed 15.5 games last season) which I think is a bonus b/c of his neck/back injury

Lance Briggs who is and has been the Bears best LB for awhile now

Pisa Tinoisamoa who led the Rams in tackles not too long ago but was injured very early last season as well.

So two potential HOF players and another solid LB vs the hype train.....not even close.

Trust me dude, the Lions will put up over 21 pts on that Bears defense.

 

[benson_will_lead_the_way]

What are u smoking? The lions are all hype.

Stafford....played what half a season and didn't look like Matt Ryan or Joe Flacco in their first seasons.

Jahvid Best/Kevin Smith/Brandon Pettigrew/Scheffler vs Urlacher/Briggs/Tinoisamoa.

Hmmm....a hyped up rookie that is injury prone....Kevin Smith who had a poor sophomore campaign and major injury.....Pettigrew who is coming off of major injury and has <1 yr exp....and Scheffler is an above average pass catching TE

vs

Brian Urlacher(who missed 15.5 games last season) which I think is a bonus b/c of his neck/back injury

Lance Briggs who is and has been the Bears best LB for awhile now

Pisa Tinoisamoa who led the Rams in tackles not too long ago but was injured very early last season as well.

So two potential HOF players and another solid LB vs the hype train.....not even close.

Trust me dude, the Lions will put up over 21 pts on that Bears defense.

Okay dude....if YOU say so.