Chicago Bears Position Battles: RB
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 19, 2010 11:00 AM CDT
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PrintIf the Bears offensive line can get any push whatsoever I think Matt Forte and Chester Taylor can compile 1,500 rushing yards between them. Add in another 1,000+ through the air, and the Bears could have one of the best tandems in the NFL. But if the line can't get it done, I think Mad Mike Martz, with Lovie Smith's blessing, will abandon the run and chuck it all over the field.
Lovie wants to run the ball, but I don't think he's so naive as to not play to his teams offensive strengths. If the run game struggles early, I think step one will be to reshuffle the line, then step 2 will be Mad Martz taking over. We'll still hear the "get off the bus running" sound bytes on occasion, but they'll be followed with some "take what the defense gives us" mumbo jumbo. I really hope the line can gel and allow the Bears to have a legitimate two tier attack. After the jump I'll look at the backs a little deeper.
As much as I like Forte and Taylor, I wouldn't consider either of them special. Both are good all around football players, but neither runs with the power of Adrian Peterson or has the speed of Chris Johnson. They are both cut and go type runners with not a lot of wiggle, but both are well above average in the pass game, and that's what makes them so good for the Martz offense. I expect Forte to start all year with Taylor seeing plenty of snaps. For a good look at these two, check out Kev's piece on them from Monday.
Garrett Wolfe and Kahlil Bell are having the real roster battle among the tailbacks. Offensively, Wolfe has never looked too hot in my opinion, but Bell, even though his career is basically that one big run, at least looks like he can run with some authority. We all know how much the Bears value special teams contributions from their backups (as they should), so if it comes down to that, Wolfe is a gimme. I think both have a shot at the final roster if the Bears decide not to carry a true fullback on the roster. The other tailback in camp, rookie Brandon Minor, is a practice squad candidate. And they already made a call on supplemental draft pick Harvey Unga, his devastating injury found him a spot on IR.
Of the two fullbacks battling it out for a spot, I like Will Ta'ufo'ou best. Mostly because I've seen more of him than Eddie Williams. Ta'ufo'ou had a 6-yard reception against the Chargers, but neither did anything that memorable to make a case to stick yet. Depending on how many TE/H-Backs and RBs the Bears carry, they may decide to not even open with a FB on the roster.
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No FB, we're using HBs
With all of the other guys that we’re determined to keep, we just don’t have room for a FB. Instead we’ll use 2 TE sets and call 1 of them a HB.
I also don’t see Bell making the team. I think we keep 3 RBs, and Wolfe gets the nod for his Special Teams play (+ the change of pace he’ll offer for the 10 carries that he’ll get this year).
by MakeHalasProud on Aug 19, 2010 11:12 AM CDT reply actions
Will the Bears keep a traditional Fullback on the roster?
I voted “No” but it may depend on injuries, etc. I’m curious as to what Martz has up his sleeve.
If things go well and the Bears find themselves with the lead in the 4th quarter does the offense continue to “attack” or does it shift to “milk the clock” mode?
"More cowbell" - Bruce Dickinson; "More bell cow" - Lovie Smith
I don't see a FB making the team
his devastating injury found him a spot on IR.
LOL
I’m starting to lean towards Bell over Wolfe. Bell hits the hole as good, if not better than any RB on the roster. Bell runs the way Benson should’ve.
But if it comes down to special teams, Wolfe definitely has the edge.
Caught a lttle of the Bungles game.
Benson runs hard! I get sick every time I think of the T. Jones/ Ced fiasco.
"More cowbell" - Bruce Dickinson; "More bell cow" - Lovie Smith
Dude, I was at the Cinci game last year
Going in, I was hoping the D would lay Benson out a few times… Needless to say…
Of the many football games I’ve been to, that one is easily Top 5 worst!
same here -bell over wolfe
I know Wolfe is favored on special teams but Bell is so much better as a running back.
"Stay thirsty, my friend."
by Maelvampyre on Aug 19, 2010 12:43 PM CDT up reply actions
Same time, though
Forte & Taylor are much better as a running back than he is. So the third slot should go to someone who contributes well somewhere else. As I don’t know of Bell as a ST stud, I have to give it to Wolfe on that, unfortunately.
If I did what I love for a living, what would I do in my free time?
Writer at windycitygridiron.com {-/-} http://www.twitter.com/kdoggers
That actually might be the thinking of Lovie & staff
Although JD says that the only one championing for Wolfe is Toub. Lovie has Bell working every drill or position that Wolfe is doing in camp.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 9:52 AM CDT up reply actions
Doesn't fit the offense
You’re talking 3 WR, 4 WR sets, and no backfield most times.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 19, 2010 12:13 PM CDT up reply actions
I think he was kidding...
In the 8th grade Mike Ditka won his school's Science Fair with a model of a working volcano. There were 17 other working volcano's made that day, but only one named Mount Ditka.
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 19, 2010 1:10 PM CDT up reply actions
Ah! ((lightbulb))
.,, still learning the personalities here.
Thanks, Les.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 19, 2010 2:09 PM CDT up reply actions
I think Richard Dent belongs in the Hall of Fame
by rdent4hof on Aug 20, 2010 7:04 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
Who doesn't........
Other than some of the douchebags on the selection committee, but who cares what they think Randle and Jackson got in before Dent, and neither was a Super Bowl MVP……….
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 7:08 AM CDT up reply actions
That's good to know! :-)
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions
I love Ditka, Patrick Manelly and money.
I also think that Mark Schlereth is a douche.
And I think that 95 should be in the HOF.
I also believe that WCG is the best Bears blog ever.
As Macho Man Randy Savage would say “DIG IT”
If Mike Ditka punched you in the face, you'd have to fight off the urge to thank him.
by Ditkavsworld on Aug 20, 2010 8:55 AM CDT up reply actions
Got it! ((writing this down))
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions
In response to your Avatar:
Best cartoon EVER!
"More cowbell" - Bruce Dickinson; "More bell cow" - Lovie Smith
Agreed!
They don’t make ’em like that anymore.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions
+1
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:37 AM CDT up reply actions
Think Ta'ufo'ou makes the team
Call him a FB or HB or TE or whatever label they give him, but I think he finds his way somewhere in a Bears jersey.
I think so too
I like the way he plays, he’ll have to find a home on special teams.
In the 8th grade Mike Ditka won his school's Science Fair with a model of a working volcano. There were 17 other working volcano's made that day, but only one named Mount Ditka.
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 19, 2010 11:57 AM CDT up reply actions
I hope he does, but.....
I’d bet he doesn’t. Sad, too, because I think he might have actually succeeded in some of those 3rd and 1 FB dives last year. I like the way he runs…..
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 7:09 AM CDT up reply actions
While I would like to see a local kid make the team
I doubt he does.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Aug 20, 2010 7:59 AM CDT up reply actions
How is Ta'ufo'ou a local kid?
You obviously don’t mean local to Chicago, so can I assume you’re from Cali?
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:28 AM CDT up reply actions
That's racist
I’ve been waiting for an opportunity to use that. Finally! :-D
"44 years of football history and nothing to show for it. I wish I wasn’t banned at the Norseman.." - tfrabotta
"Fellas, what are they, unblockable? Is that the '85 Bears over there?" - overheard at Giants' '06 training camp
~~~ Check my profile for links for SB20 and America's Game: '85 Bears ~~~
Why assume all Bear fans live in Chicago land?
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Aug 22, 2010 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions
If we keep a FB
then Bell gets cut, and I can’t see that happening. There’s really no use for a traditional FB on this roster.
"In order to have a winner, the team must have a feeling of unity; every player must put the team first- ahead of personal glory" - motivational sign at Halas Hall.
With 4 TEs, I can't see FB making the roster.
I like Will T, but I don’t think he fits what this offense wants to do. Pracatice squad?
I think that the Wolfe/Bell battle and the “preferences” by coaches and front office will set the precedence elsewhere. Wolfe has Dave Toub’s favor, while Bell has RESULTS. If you keep both, then you take a spot from elsewhere.
Running back battle is one of the interesting battles to keep up with this camp.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
exactly
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Aug 20, 2010 7:59 AM CDT up reply actions
I voted yes because I would just like to see one on the roster but...
the more you think about it they probably see Kellen Davis as the better player than both Williams and Ta’ufo’ou which will lead them to keep 4 TE instead of 3 TE and 1 FB.
by Dominique Blanton on Aug 19, 2010 12:29 PM CDT reply actions
Wolfe is still to small.
Keep Bell and Will T.
Special Teams isn’t that hard to pick up.
by Suffering from Chicago Sports on Aug 19, 2010 12:39 PM CDT reply actions
Wolfe is a whole inch shorter than Barry Sanders was.........
according to the hall of fame, who lists Sanders as all of 5’8". Good thiing for the Lions that they didn’t listen when many called Sanders to small to carry an NFL workload. I’m not saying that Wolfe is Sanders, or ever could be. I’m just saying that the size argument is old and lazy. Wolfe will or will not succeed based on his ability. His height has little to do with it, and hell, might even help him………..he doesn’t need quite as large a hole to get through, lol!
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 7:14 AM CDT up reply actions
203 > 171
Sanders was a short back, but he was well put together at 203 pounds… Wolfe is short and light.
And that is the last time I’ll ever mention those two in a comment again.
In the 8th grade Mike Ditka won his school's Science Fair with a model of a working volcano. There were 17 other working volcano's made that day, but only one named Mount Ditka.
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 20, 2010 9:00 AM CDT up reply actions
I don't buy, and never did, 203.......
I addressed this below.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions
Wolfe just isn't very strong
he looks wirey
In the 8th grade Mike Ditka won his school's Science Fair with a model of a working volcano. There were 17 other working volcano's made that day, but only one named Mount Ditka.
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 20, 2010 9:31 AM CDT up reply actions
Excellent Adjective = Wirey
+1
by Suffering from Chicago Sports on Aug 20, 2010 9:33 AM CDT up reply actions
agreed.....
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions
Spry?
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 9:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Question.....
What did strong have to do with Barry Sanders? Barry was never described as a power back, but as an elusive back……….
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions
and how does any of this disqualify barry from being small or the fact that the "small" argument is lazy?
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions
He could take a hit
and maintain his balance… I like Wolfe, and I agree he’s never received any sustained playing time, but he usually goes down on first contact.
In the 8th grade Mike Ditka won his school's Science Fair with a model of a working volcano. There were 17 other working volcano's made that day, but only one named Mount Ditka.
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 20, 2010 12:19 PM CDT up reply actions
Again, I'm not saying....
That Wolfe has Sander’s skill set (nobody does) but I’m saying that the two small argument is one that people seem to use because they don’t have any argument against his actual performance. I’d say that Wolfe has looked very elusive at times, and has avoided and broken a few tackles, and the nice links tha DaHamsta put up below show Wolfe in action. He looks pretty good in those highlights. And considering the relative few number of carries he’s had, there are a decent number of highlights. He’s got 68 total carries and 8 rushing highlights (he has 9 films, but one of them is the blocked kick TD he scored against the Vikes). I’d say Wolfe is worth exploring, especially if Taylor and Forte continue their sub 4.0ypc trends from last season. Wolfe’s elusiveness might help make up for the lack of holes the line provides, and Forte, Taylor and Bell are all one cut backs.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:31 PM CDT up reply actions
LOL! Awesome!
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 10:04 AM CDT up reply actions
Very underrated football movie. Definitely not one of the greats, but...
I still watch it every time I catch it on TBS.
WILDCARD BITCHES!!! YEEEEHHHAAAAA!!!!!
RB battle
I think Wolfe makes it over Bell because of the ST value. I’m not discounting what Bell did last year (that 72-yarder was nice) but I also think Martz wants guys on the team who are matchup problems and Wolfe can be one of those guys if he is put in the right spot. I remember Rex throwing him a screen pass in the 08 preseason and he took it all the way. I also remember thinking these are the exactly the kind of plays that should be called for him all the time. Ditka said if we use him like Gentry, he’ll be a threat.
I don't know why Wolfe is not taken seriously as a RB
Wolfe- 5.5 YPC, 27.3 first down % (proves he isn’t getting easy yards on 3rd and long draws)
Bell-(minus 72 yrd run) 3.8 ypc, 22.5 first down % (includes 72 yard run)
Bell may be a better downhill runner, but Wolfe has proven he is more versatile and a better change of pace back. Add this to his special teams prowess, and he should be kept over bell regardless of size. If it is Bell vs a FB, Bell should be kept since this offense does not have much of a need for a FB.
When you calculate those numbers
do you also take away Wolf’s longest carry of the year or are those numbers career numbers? Just curious.
If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
I remain a pessimistically hopeful Bears fan.
And these are season to season numbers
Also keep in mind that the line improved nearing the end of the season where Bell received the majority of his carries while Wolfe had all of his carries before Williams’ switch to LT.
How far above 4?
Is it that significant? I’m not trying to try you, I just know you’re a “big” Wolfe fan (but a bigger Bears fan) and I wondered how much taking out a backs biggest play skews the numbers. I see by your last comment we’re on about the same time. Give me the bottom line. Why are you such a Garret Wolf fan when he has been given many opportunities to earn the job but hasn’t gotten it? (I distain our coaching staff as much as the next Bears fan btw)
If you can't laugh at yourself you must not be very funny.
I remain a pessimistically hopeful Bears fan.
Maybe the coaching staff is......
pigeon-holing Wolfe the same way that many spectators have. Maybe they have a vertical bias? IDK, but I’ve wondered for a bit why they haven given one of the most productive college backs in history an opportunity to prove himself when, say like last season, Forte is injured and ineffective. I call it poor coaching, but who knows. I’m not saying wolfe is the next Barry Sanders (5’8", BTW) but how do we know he cannot carry the load? He carried far more times per game in college than NFL backs generally do, so the whole “he’s too little to take the beating” thing is a lazy, at best, argument. Barry Sanders was not much bigger, and the weight they listed Sanders at was generous, to say the least. No way that he weighed 200 lbs. I got close enough to get him to get his autograph twice (once on a program and once on his rookie card), and I would be shocked if his actual weight was more than 185. I say if the tandem of Taylor and Forte cannot get it done this season, give Wolfe a shot. How exactly can it be worse than the 3.6 yards per carry that both Forte and Taylor posted last year?
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 7:24 AM CDT up reply actions
Now let's slow down a little
He played college ball at Norther Illinois. Playing college teams like Central Michigan, North Dakota, Akron and others. Not exactly NFL teams when considering “carrying the load” capability. Not saying he can’t, just putting it into perspective.
Soooo...
Playing at Northern Illinois meant……….what? He didn’t carry the ball more frequently per game than NFL backs? He wasn’t hit by much larger me than himself with regularity? Do we judge players by their division or their ability?
Walter Payton played where? Should he have been ignored because of the opposition he faced in the SWAC? Want newer? How bout Joe Flacco? Or Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie? Or our own Daniael Manning?
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 8:51 AM CDT up reply actions
You had me until Daniael Manning
No, just the level of play from the top tier of colleges is a major jump to the NFL. When you look at smaller schools where the level of play is less, it is even more of a jump.
Again, not saying anything against Wolfe, just that the level of play at Northern Illinois is not the NFL. And every scout on all levels judge players by their divisions somewhat.
OK, but.....
my point was not about level of play, but about the abuse that he took in college and the knock against him that his size will mean he cannot take the beating of being a feature back. I say BS. He took that beating quite well in college, and came back for more. I’m not saying he will be great, or suck. I’m just saying that the same old lazy arguments abou this size are meaningless, and that if the two-some currently on top of the depth charts doesn’t perform, that maybe giving Wolfe a shot might not be such a bad thing. It should have happened last year, instead of risking Forte while he was injured and getting mediocre to bad play from him, to boot. The fact that he played for a small college changes none of that, nor does it change the fact that he was one of the most productive backs in college football history. There are a ton of guys who play in small school settings. Few of them played to Wolfe’s level.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:07 AM CDT up reply actions
Most productive in a small school college
Put him in Texas, Oklahoma etc. and probably not so much productivity. That’s the point I was going for.
We have 2 high school QB’s that have broken about every state record imaginable in passing, division 3. Better numbers than division 1 passers but not quite the same.
As for why the Bears have failed to see what Wolfe can do, your guess is as good as mine. No sense keeping a question mark, get him in there and lets see if he can cut it or needs cut.
Exactly.....
See what he’s got, and make an educated decision. If he can’t handle the load, then great ST player or not, he really shouldn’t be here. ST or no, the backups have to at least be able to play the position……….
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 10:05 AM CDT up reply actions
That doesn't count, because he was running behind and inferior line against the.......
National Champions fro Northern Illinois……….uh………wait…………..
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:13 PM CDT up reply actions
1st
a mention of Wolfe and Barry Sanders in the same breath, and now a Wolfe and Sweetness reference? OMG.
In the 8th grade Mike Ditka won his school's Science Fair with a model of a working volcano. There were 17 other working volcano's made that day, but only one named Mount Ditka.
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 20, 2010 9:02 AM CDT up reply actions
Not talking about level of play.......
I would never……..
Just saying that if Payton had been ignored because he was from Jackson State, well……what shrine would I have in my living room then?
And if the league had ignored Barry because of his small stature, what would the Lions fans have to talk about with any kind of happy thought that occured in the last 50 years?
The Wolfe is too small argument is tired and lazy. period……..
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:09 AM CDT up reply actions
I take exception to tired and lazy.
The argument is neither. He IS too small. A DB has more size than he does.
No one is questioning his desire or his success when he get playing time. What my problem with him is that is not a 3rd tier back, he’s a ST player. Durability? I have no idea, I’ve never seen him take a crushing blow. 170# back vs. 300# lineman or a 250# fast MLB – not a good scenario.
A 3rd tier back needs to have good blocking skills mostly, and the ability to carry the rock in a crisis. I don’t see Wolfe getting the ball on 3 and 2 in the red zone. Further I don’t see him being able to effectively reroute a 275# DE.
by Suffering from Chicago Sports on Aug 20, 2010 9:41 AM CDT up reply actions
Actually, the third teir backs first concern is ST. Where Wolfe excels.
And, again, guys like Darren Sproles (5’7" and 180#) aren’t getting the too small wrap.
Here’s an interesting ESPN article on small backs. Like I said before. Why didn’t size stop these backs, if size is what defines a small back’s career?
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions
Will you at least concede??
That importance of Blocking RB vs. ST need is a team specific, nay, a philisophical (sp?) preference??
For the Bears, I think (I do, sometimes) their need lies more a credible backup for power and blocking more so than a “finesse” guy. That’s who I think Wolfe is – speedy, elusive, not powerful.
Is Bell more powerful? Marginally (IMHO). I believe his upside to offense is higher. My opinion.
by Suffering from Chicago Sports on Aug 20, 2010 10:19 AM CDT up reply actions
sure.....I can even see the argument....
though I think you’ll find that every teaqm in the league keeps players for special teams performance………..
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 10:22 AM CDT up reply actions
Is that "special" in the "remedial" sense?
Like Favre?
Sorry had to ask… LOL.
by Suffering from Chicago Sports on Aug 20, 2010 10:25 AM CDT up reply actions
lol!
awesomeness, sir!
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 10:35 AM CDT up reply actions
Wolfe is also a much better
Receiving Back than Bell. He also does better inside the 20 (Bell-2.5 YPC, 0 TDs) (Wolfe-5.2 YPC 1 TD)
Wolfe had less carries and still managed to get a touchdown. So even the idea of Bell being a better Goal Line back is not really true.
His career YPC is 4.0
In the 8th grade Mike Ditka won his school's Science Fair with a model of a working volcano. There were 17 other working volcano's made that day, but only one named Mount Ditka.
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 20, 2010 9:01 AM CDT up reply actions
Wolfe YPC for 2009.....5.5 and without his longest run.....
which is what was addressed above, it would 4.0 ypc………….(84 yards over the 21 other carries)
link…..
And, I can’t resist……….
Wolfe’s 4.0 career ypc makes it official. Forte is the only running back on the team with less than 4.0 ypc………
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:16 AM CDT up reply actions
Hey Train one BIG small school ....
…… player you missed ……… Jerry Rice . Call me crazy but I think he did pretty good in the NFL .
" Everyone has a plan 'till they get punched in the mouth. " ~
Mike Tyson
by MidWayMonster54 on Aug 20, 2010 1:06 PM CDT up reply actions
right......
don’t know how I missed that. Thanks!
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:14 PM CDT up reply actions
No problem , it was proably just an ....
…. heat of the disscussion oversite on your part my man .
" Everyone has a plan 'till they get punched in the mouth. " ~
Mike Tyson
by MidWayMonster54 on Aug 20, 2010 11:29 PM CDT up reply actions
Train has whipped himself into a frenzy
someone should get him a paper bag he can breath into to calm down
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Aug 22, 2010 10:28 AM CDT up reply actions
Roster squeeze?
I think the Kellen Davis and the Jarron Gilbert experiments may end this pre-season???
One of them, but not both.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions
If it comes down to it...
I’d rather see them keep a 9th or 10th OL than a 4th RB or a 5th TE. OL is the weakness of this team right now, and it needs to be addressed sooner rather than later. If nothing else, having more bodies around means there are more options, even if none of them are particularly good.
Bell is a good one-cut runner. But that’s all he is. I don’t see him as a ball catcher or a guy that makes people miss. He hits like a cannon, but has nothing after that. He’s good in short yardage situations. That’s about it.
Wolfe is the TRUE change-of-pace back. Both Taylor and Forte are very similar players. Good in most aspects of running, one-cut types with above average power and speed. Wolfe has no power, admittedly, but he’s blazing fast and changes directions with the best of them. Swing him out on screens or slants where the big fellas can’t get near him, and watch him work. Plus, the already known special teams contributions.
My prediction? Forte 1, Taylor 2, Wolfe 3, Bell PS.
I don't think Bell can go back to the PS
In the 8th grade Mike Ditka won his school's Science Fair with a model of a working volcano. There were 17 other working volcano's made that day, but only one named Mount Ditka.
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 19, 2010 4:16 PM CDT up reply actions
He is eligible for the PS
Bell was only active for 7 games last season, and he was a rookie last season, so he hasn’t hit the two year mark.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 7:41 AM CDT up reply actions
I should know that since I wrote a piece explaining the PS last year...
I was just too lazy to look it up! Good looking out!
In the 8th grade Mike Ditka won his school's Science Fair with a model of a working volcano. There were 17 other working volcano's made that day, but only one named Mount Ditka.
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 20, 2010 9:03 AM CDT up reply actions
np, bro.....
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:18 AM CDT up reply actions
But, I don't think Bell will make it there.
Someone will “pluck” him off once the Bears place him there.
He showed promise and good decision making last year.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions
on one run........
I’m not downing Bell. I’m just saying that he was hot for all of one run. period. We really don’t have a big enough sample of the guy to judge him…….
And I won’t make the “take that one run away and” argument, because you cannot take that one run away. What would Paytons stats look like if you took the best run from every game away? Or Sanders? Or Faulk? It’s not a very realistic argument.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions
It's one more "big run" than Wolfe though.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 9:34 AM CDT up reply actions
Actually,
it depends on how you define big run………Is it a run over 20? 30? Wolfe has runs of 28, 36 and 38……..
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:36 AM CDT up reply actions
He also has 3 seasons. :-/
Questions…
… (Lord forbid) if Forte and Taylor go down to injury in week one, do you think that Wolfe could take the load of a entire regular season?
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 9:38 AM CDT up reply actions
why not?
as opposed to Bell? What has Bell proven, other than that he can run through a hole untouched for 72 yards (and get caught from behind)? His big run was one that most of the backs in the league could have made in the same situation. Look at the video again (pops). To be honest, his 4.78 40 time probably kept that from being a TD. Wolfe’s 4.43 or Forte’s 4.46 would probably have resulted in a TD on that play. It was a simple HB Blast through the b gap between the left guard and left tackle. Pace and Kruetz did their jobs, and Beekman and McKie both got off great blocks to open up the whole. Bell just had to run through it. I’m not saying it wasn’t a good run. But I’m calling it what it was. A rare great job by the line.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:54 AM CDT up reply actions
But he did it! Wolfe hasn't.
My thing is this…
… Wolfe has been on roster for 3 years now and has not proven anything more than he can make tackles on SP/Ts. That’s not to slight his SP/Ts ability, but Adrian Peterson went to the pro bowl for SP/Ts with this ball club and he too found the chopping block and was replaced. Difference between AP’s time in Chicago and Wolfe’s…
… Is that he could play for an extended period in a pinch if the 1st and 2nd running backs could not.
Wolfe has not shown that and SEVERAL running backs have been brought up over the last 3-4 years to fill in when the injury bug hits the RB unit, while Wolfe sits on roster and gets limited tick (playing time).
He is holding a roster spot that could effectively go elsewhere and actually “benefit” the team in another area or at the RB position. Someone is going to get cut for Wolfe this year who—ultimately— could help this team in several areas (other than SP/Ts) in the 2010 season.
I’m just not a fan of allowing someone to hold a spot based upon his draft position and “potential”. After a certain amount of time i=someone has to ask is it potenital or just a “wish”.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 10:03 AM CDT up reply actions
Sorry, but.....
Nobody has taken many carries since Forte showed up.
Forte 574
Bell 40
Wolfe 37
AP 37
Jones 34
Are you indicting every RB on the team not named Forte? Wolfe had the same ypc as Bell last season. So what has Bell shown? A 72 yard run that he was untouched in before he was caught from behind? Sorry, but I’m not jumping on the Bell bandwagon because of a great play by the O-line. Nor will I discredit him for it (he did nothing wrong by running through the hole). But all this “great decision making” that’s being claimed and his great running everyone seems impressed with from this past week (where he averaged all of 2.0 ypc) is ridiculous. He’s simply not had a chance to show the fans what he really has yet.
I won’t crown him, and I won’t hate on him. Neither is appropriate just yet, IMO. And the same goes for Wolfe. But smacking Wolfe for limited snaps when Forte (whether you agree or not) obviously had the trust/respect of the coaches, and when everyone who wasn’t Forte saw limited snaps seems a little unfair to me. If Wolfe is so bad, then how did he manage the same ypc as Bell, even without the 72 yarder? And I agree with your final statement. To bad that Bell hasn’t shown any more than Wolfe has. Because all of this that’s being heaped on Bell is little more than hoping on potential and wishing he were more……….
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 10:34 AM CDT up reply actions
Peterson carried the ball 178 in 3 seasons that Wolfe has been on roster.
68 carries over three years for Wolfe in his 3 years.
More all-purpose yds for Peterson and was a better all-around contributor on SP/Ts and as a runner.
Also, when AP was ran down, they brought up Bell (2009).
I see the fandom runs deep for Wolfe, so I’m sure convincing you otherwise is a tough task…
… But, I don’t see how in three years we have learned anything more than Wolfe being a “potential” threat from the backfield that has YET to be substantiated. Bell has shown a spark in limited opportunities.
Weren’t we all a flame about Aromashodu after 4 games? A spark is a “spark” and Bell has shown that.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 3:45 PM CDT up reply actions
He has made quite a few nice plays
First, no....
I wasn’t all aflame about ’Shodu after the first 4 games. I said the same thing about him that I have said about Bell and Wolfe. He has potential.
Now, lets be fair. You’re comparing APs 6th, 7th and 8th years to Wolfe’s 1st, 2nd and 3rd. So now let’s compare APs first three years to Wolfe’s.
AP: 47 carries for 187 yard. 3.98 yards per carry. 6 receptions for 53 yards and 8.8 yards per reception
GW: 68 carries for 274 yards. 4.03 ypc. 11 recs for 129 yards and 11.7 yards per reception.
And, btw, when did our Adrian Peterson ever go to the Pro Bowl? You claimed that above, and I missed it the first time, but the only AP to make a pro bowl resided in Minnesota.
And Bell has shown nothing other than the fact that he can run through a wide open hole untouched and then get caught from behind. Again, I’m not diminishing Bell. I just won’t elevate him because he was lucky enough to be the back that happened to be in when the line opened up one of the few holes it opened all year, and the defense happened to be out of position. It’s not like he changed directions, faked anyone out, broke a tackle, or switched holes because the one he was supposed to take was filled. He ran through a large hole and then sprinted until he was caught.
And I’m not a huge Wolfe supporter, so you got me pegged wrong there, as well. Thomas Jones took 5 years and played on three teams before he got a shot, and he was a #7 overall pick. Some players don’t get the opportunity to get a lot of plays in early. People are acting as if they know something about Garrett Wolfe. BS. I say lets quit pretending we know more than we do and look at the back. If he wins the job and Bell gets cut, then great. If Bell wins the job and Wolfe gets cut, great, too. But lets stop pretending that we have a large enough sample to judge either player by. If that was the case, Jones should have been out of the league as a bust by 2003, and our AP should have been cut year one.
I am not endorsing Wolfe as a RB over Bell. I’m just saying that Bell hasn’t shown squat, and neither has Wolfe. And educated decision can only be made with enough information. We don’t have it.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 8:57 PM CDT up reply actions
Wolfe does provide a few things ....
…. over Bell . One , Wolfe is the superior special teams player . Two , Wolfe provides a completly different type of back from our two starters . And , as much as I hate to say this , Wolfe was a draft pick and JA refuses to get rid of guys his picks .
" Everyone has a plan 'till they get punched in the mouth. " ~
Mike Tyson
by MidWayMonster54 on Aug 20, 2010 11:32 PM CDT up reply actions
I thought AP went for SP/Ts Alternate in 2007?
… Google search revealed this to be false.
Nevertheless, I’m not a fan of three years of Garrett Wolfe.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 22, 2010 2:11 PM CDT up reply actions
And, BTW.....
Your Adrian Peterson reference is interesting………Peterson’s ST performance kept him here for 8 years……..
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 10:37 AM CDT up reply actions
But, he also was above Wolfe on the depth chart.
Semper Fi
PREDICTION for 2010-2011 NFL Season: "The England Patriots will finish 8-8 plus or minus 1" ~8/13/10 1230p
by ChicagoMarine on Aug 20, 2010 3:37 PM CDT up reply actions
But he was also already developed, in his 6th, 7th and 8th years......
Where was he on the depth charts in his first few years? Bottom in 2002 behind Behind A-Train and Leon Johnson (who was out of the league two years later). Bottom of the Chart in 2003 behind A-Train and Brock Forsey (who was out of the league 2 years later) and in 2004, he was bottom of the depth chart behind Thomas Jones and A-Train (who AAP also outlast, as Thomas was out of the league by 2008).
So it looks a little more even when put into a fair context.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:06 PM CDT up reply actions
How many carry opportunities did Bell get versus Wolfe though?
by Suffering from Chicago Sports on Aug 20, 2010 9:44 AM CDT up reply actions
Bell got 40 while Wolfe got 22.........
Bell got 220 yards on 40 carries with a long of 72. Wolfe got 120 yards on 22 carries with a long of 36.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 9:55 AM CDT up reply actions
K. Bell will definitley make the team.
if he doesn’t, the coaches are more remedial than I thought.
Walter Payton lives on!!!
Why
because they chose other equal or better options? I think your glasses are very rose-colored, unless you’ve got some extremely strong reasoning you’re choosing not to share with us.
If I did what I love for a living, what would I do in my free time?
Writer at windycitygridiron.com {-/-} http://www.twitter.com/kdoggers
Agree with Kev
Bell might “hit the hole better”, but he’s not better than Forte, Taylor, or Wolfe. When it comes down to that 3rd spot, Wolfe not only adds a change of pace addition, but he also adds special teams contributions, something Bell has yet to add.
WILDCARD BITCHES!!! YEEEEHHHAAAAA!!!!!
I'm going to second the "Agree with Kev" sentiment........
At least until some kind of explanation of why the Bears need to keep one cut back with decent burst or risk being “remedial” (?!?!?!, did you mean that they remedy situations more than you thought, or that they are provided for student with learning problems? Not sure that was the word you intended to use, but an explanation as to how you came about using that word could prove interesting. I love it when people have clever reasons for using words in unusual ways!)
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 20, 2010 7:30 AM CDT up reply actions
I think he used remedial instead of retarded.
It’s just not politically correct.
by Suffering from Chicago Sports on Aug 20, 2010 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions
It's either a FB or 4 TEs as others have pointed out
I like Kellen Davis, and I think the Bears do too. Unless the Bears decide to try to trade Olsen or Clark atthe last minute, I don’t see us keeping a FB.
Pat Riley is the devil.
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