Mike Martz and Matt Forte came out to prove a point Sunday: The Bears could still run the ball. It worked in a 34-29 win over the Panthers.
1. Sometimes it’s easy to forget what a difference maker Devin Hester can be. He extended his return touchdown record with a punt return score in the first half. A long kickoff return set up another Bears touchdown.
2. Martz came out trying to prove a point. He didn’t call a pass on the first drive. The Bears opened up massive holes all day long for Forte, who gained 205 yards on 25 carries. The Bears threw for only 90 yards net and still won the game.
3. Cam Newton was extremely impressive in defeat once again. He threw for for 374 yards and rushed for 35 yards and two touchdowns. The Panthers moved the ball almost at will for portions of the game. DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart both ran well. They racked up over 500 yards of offense.
But when the Panthers needed points in the fourth quarter to win, the Bears shut them down three straight drives.
4. It’s amazing how the Panthers just call runs for Newton near the goal. It’s like he makes the running back absolete.
5. Jay Cutler had another uneven performance. He’s been high with throws all year and had an ugly fourth quarter pick. The defense bailed him out after that one.
6. The Bears badly needed this game. While they fixed the run game, the passing game is still a mess and the defense doesn’t look as dominant as in the past. They need to improve to get back to the playoffs, but a 2-2 start won’t kill them.
