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Heading into the bye week the Bears defense has been getting over shadow by the ineptness of that is the Martzfense (more on them later in the week). What we learned from this defense heading into the bye is that they are for real, but at the same time can't carry the team like they did in 2005 and 2006. If it's two things the Bears fans want to feel good about there team is that the special teams is among the best in the league and the defense is very solid lead by the return of Urlacher. Three players have stood out to me on this defense and that's Israel Idonjie, Daniel Manning, and Tim Jennings. Idonjie has taken advantage of opposing offenses paying too much attention to Peppers and responded with 4.5 sacks and 2 forces fumbles. Danieal Manning has put a strong hold on his starting strong safety spot with his stellar play, and Tim Jennings has played well in place of the disappointing Zach Bowman. The Offense during this bye week we are going back to the drawing board trying to find an identity, but when they do they will have a strong defense and great special teams give this team a strong push.
Did well on both Armstrong and Moss by not getting beat down field. Yes some of that had to do with the Bears getting pressure on McNabb all day. Jennings has come in for the struggling Bowman and has played pretty well. It will be interesting to see what Lovie does after the bye with Jennings because the caliber of receivers does get much tougher going on.
Got beat on a sweet double move by Santana Moss, but after that settle down and locked on Anthony Armstrong and Moss when he was on his side. I would like to see Lovie switch it up a bit and give Tillman his old job back at LCB.
Continuing to show why Lovie was so high on him coming into the season. Moore best play might have been the interception that didn't count. The reason for this being because Moore showed the athletic, and ball-hawking skills on that's much need at that position. He also did well in the slot against Moss and sometimes Armstrong.
FS Chris Harris Grade B
Each week I keep waiting for teams to test Harris in the centerfield and so far they haven't. Hopefully Harris continues his solid play after the bye where they will face some fierce passing attacks.
As expected McNabb tested Manning and Daniel got him. Manning had an outstanding game this past Sunday and so far this season you can make an argument that he has been one of the better strong safeties in the NFC. It really doesn't come as a surprise to me; the guy is build to where SS is his best position. If Major Wright pans out, the Bears will have one of the more athletic safety tandems in the league with him and Manning back there.