With Jay Cutler back, Bears offense finds rhythm
Jay Cutler returned to the field after a one week absence due to a hamstring injury, and rallied the Bears to a victory over the Oakland Raiders. Cutler threw for 2 touchdowns and more importantly led the Bears down the field for the game winning field goal.
A week after the Bears punted on all their possessions, Jay Cutler came back as the starter and delivered a solid performance against the Raiders. Coming off a hamstring injury, Cutlers’ mobility and play was expected to be poor. Cutler however exceeded expectations, as the quarterback looked sharp even after missing a week of action.
Cutler completed 28 of 43 passes, with two touchdowns and 1 interception. He was able to move within the pocket and use his arm strength to deliver strikes down field. Cutler looks comfortable in the new offensive system, as him and offensive coordinator Adam Gase see eye to eye. Their chemistry is definitely growing and that is a strong positive going forward.
More from Chicago Bears
- Chicago Bears quietly compiling list of head coaching candidates
- Next Chicago Bears starting quarterback makes Bowl Game decision
- Chicago Bears appear in the hunt while on track for the first pick
- Chicago Bears: They are who we thought they were
- Chicago Bears Rumors: Kevin Warren to oversee football operations
Cutler directed the offense well against the Raiders and the offensive unit gained some confidence and positive rhythm heading into week 5.
What’s more important is that Cutler proved to be mentally strong, as he redeemed himself after throwing the interception, and delivered in the end when it counted.
Cutler was playing with a new center because usual starter Will Montgomery was injured early in the game. He did fumble a snap but overall looked very sharp in his return to the lineup.
The team played with a high spirit on Sunday and its evident that the return of Cutler boosted the confidence of the players.
The Bears defense, led by Pernell McPhee, caused pressure all day and played a huge role in the Bears victory. They made plays when opportunities presented themselves and forced two turnovers to give Cutler and company great starting field position. The Bears (1-3) are starting to head in the right direction on both sides of the ball.
Live Feed
NFL Spin Zone
Head coach John Fox praised Cutler’s toughness after the game and was happy to get the first win of the season for the passionate fan base of Chicago.
“Jay is a tough son of a bug. Some lesser guys may not have been out there, but he was. I’m really happy for our fans because we haven’t exactly lit it up here in our first two home games.”
Cutler has played well in the 3 games he’s appeared in, but his costly interceptions continue to be harmful to the team. Luckily today, the defense showed up and made some big plays to keep the team in the game and allowed the offense to come back at the end.
With Cutler at the helm, the Bears offense has looked good this season, besides some poor red zone play. As he get’s healthier and more comfortable within the offense, the Bears offense should be more efficient and reliable as the season goes on. Defeating the Raiders was a good step in the right direction and hopefully the Bears can build on it.
The Bears are happy to have Cutler back as he gives them the best chance to win games. Next week the Bears travel to Kansas City to battle the Chiefs, and they will need Cutler to deliver again if they want to pull out a tough road win.