Several pundits were talking a Bears’ upset of the Titans Sunday at Solider Field, but it wasn’t meant to be as Tennessee won 21-14 to stay undefeated on the season. With Rex Grossman starting for Chicago, are we surprised by the outcome?
Rex wasn’t horrible (he did complete 20 of 37 passes for 173 yards and a TD), but as been the case for much of his career, he once again failed to deliver in the clutch. When the Bears cut the Titans’ lead to 21-14 with just under three minutes remaining in the game, Grossman failed to even pick up a first down despite great field position and the game on the line. He telegraphed passes, he locked on to receivers and he couldn’t do anything on third downs.
But this loss wasn’t all Grossman’s fault. Don’t forget, the Titans’ defense is pretty good. Not only that, but Grossman doesn’t cover receivers, either. The Bears’ defense sold out to stop the run, which they did by holding the Titans to only 20 yards rushing, but they got zero pressure on Kerry Collins and he picked Chicago’s banged up secondary apart. Either way, the Bears need Kyle Orton back soon or else their playoff hopes don’t stand much of a chance. They’re fortunate to play in such a mediocre division.
Had the Titans not fumbled on the goal line in the first half, this could have been a blowout. Everyone is waiting for Tennessee to falter, but this truly is the best team in the NFL and despite being 9-0, they’re also underrated. No flash – all production.
