Sunday, January 2, 2011

Bears on 3rd Down

Don't get me wrong, I'm super excited about the Bears being in the playoffs and am still a bit amazed at how they managed to pull off a #2 seed.  However, I think it's clear that the Bears potential downfall will no doubt be their impotent 3rd down conversion rate.  The Bears are ranked 27th, barely ahead of the putrid 5-10 Niners and 4-11 Broncos.  On the flip side, the league leaders are familar names such as the Saints, Patriots, Falcons, and Colts all of whom are nearly 15% better on 3rd downs.  In my opinion this is one of the more telling and important football stats.  There are obviously several reasons for the Bears' failures on 3rd down, the most glaring being the offensive line.  Also the lack of a stud #1 receiver diminishes the play call options.  But the one play I can't stand is this quick pass where Cutler passes as he's back peddling.  It seems like this pass is either intercepted, batted down or behind the receiver.  STOP THAT PLAY !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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