15 on 6: Cutler, Bears almost perfect

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Sunday, Nov. 14, 2010
8:12 PM

By Jim Miller
CSNChicago.com

I thought Jay Cutler and the Bears were almost perfect in their win over the Vikings Sunday.

Holding Adrian Peterson to only 51 yds on 17 attempts with no touchdowns is quite an accomplishment considering he had averaged 122 yards a game the last six meetings with 11 touchdowns. If the defense continues its trend of forcing turnovers - they had four Sunday - their season looks promising for postseason play.

Two interceptions is never a good thing, but credit the Viking defense early for reaching a hand in to tip a deep incut to Johnny Knox. I'm sure Johnny would like to just snatch the ball with his hands, rather than jump for a body catch.

Jay has already admitted he would like to throw the ball away or run it when he threw another redzone interception to Vikings safety Husain Abdullah. As Jay walked to the sideline, he and Mike Martz started to discuss the play. Both looked a little disgusted from a blown opportunity for more points.

Jay looked surprisingly relaxed today in the pocket. His pass protection was outstanding for most of the day and surely played a part in his easy going manner. He was very decisive, showed command, and accuracy with his throws early, his mobility was on display as well. Credit Mike Martz for calling these types of plays the last two weeks to get Jay in a rhythm - he executes them with ease.

I think the offense converting a 3rd and 6 on their opening drive was big for their confidence. When looks you practiced against all week show up in the game and you shred it with a first down, it feels pretty good. It just validates all your hard work. They finished 11 for 19 on the day which is an astounding 58 percent - that is hard to do in the NFL, I do not care who you play against.

I loved how at times he reset his feet, had a wide base and threw with great balance, it is the sure-fire way to being an accurate passer. He repeatedly reset his feet on movement plays along with straight drop-back passes.

His throw to Greg Olsen on 3rd and 14 that resulted in a touchdown was a beauty. That is video cut up room material! Really test book in terms of set up, mechanics, accuracy and throwing a laser for a score in windy conditions. He was patient on Greg's "nod" route (little stutter at five yards so linebacker thinks Y option) allowing him a step to come out the other end. Jay then fired a missile in front of the safeties who just are not able to react to that type of throw.

Execution can always be better, but I think Lovie Smith is digging where his defense is right now and is encouraged to see back to back good signs of life in his offense. The Bears really had control of this game especially when they logged 20 plays more than the Vikings.

Thursday Night against the Dolphins is a quick turnaround to play on the road. Lovie will have them flush the body Monday, a walk thru Tuesday, and then hop on a plane Wednesday.

This is not a lot of time to game plan. Lovie is always well prepared with the schedule to have his team ready.

Jim Miller, an 11-year former NFL quarterback, is a Comcast SportsNet Bears analyst who can be seen each week on U.S. Cellular Bears Postgame Live. Miller, who spent five seasons with the Bears, analyzes current Chicago QB Jay Cutler in his "15 on 6" blog on CSNChicago.com and can be followed on Twitter @15miller.

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