Jay Cutler, once again directing an offense without most or all its top offensive weapons, had his first multi-interception game of the season, a mark of distinction for a quarterback whose commitment to ball security began before training camp and has held generally well before Sunday. Pressure contributed to some of the interceptions and resulted in Cutler being sacked four times, second only to the five at Minnesota.
“I think when we look at the tape, you’ll see that maybe there are other individuals [Lions and pass blockers[ that had to do with that,” said coach John Fox.
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Cutler completed 17 of 23 passes for 245 yards and touchdowns to Matt Forte and Josh Bellamy. The 97.5 passer rating with his sixth-highest this season. Obviously, a tip here, a tip there, somebody hitting his arm or his throwing motion, you look at the numbers and the turnover ratio isn't what we wanted,” said tackle Kyle Long. But Jay played his butt off today. It was a gutty performance and it's a shame we couldn't pull it out for him."
Moon's Grade: B+
Jay Cutler posted a career-best season passer rating of 92.3 and his 3,659 passing yards were the fourth-highest of his career despite missing six quarters early in the year with injuries. His interception rate of 2.3 percent was second only to his abbreviated 2011 season (2.2) and his overall leadership of the offense was the best of his seven Bears seasons.
“Jay's so much more focused,” said Long. “I can do everything in my power to be as focused as possible and Jay will be double that focus. That's just who he is.”
NFL
Moon's QB Season Grade: A