The Pecking Order...

     With the NFL Combine over, teams are now coordinating their scouts to attend college pro days, getting to work on their draft boards, and setting up their offseason strategies. The braintrust of the Chicago Bears have some hard truths to face if their going to compete for a Super Bowl next year...Here's the pecking order:

• Salary Cap
• Free Agency
• Draft Strategy

Salary Cap

     As it stands, the Bears have 12.9 million in cap space. Using the franchise tag on Melton will eat up 8.3 million of it. Without cap relief, Melton's tag would severely limit the Bears ability to look at free agents. If CHI cannot agree on a long term contract with Melton, they should look into some kind of compensation with the Nonexclusive Tag. But with Paea's ability to play the 3-Technique, letting Melton walk would not bother me one bit. Looking at Charles Tillman, he's in the final year of his deal and due $8 million. Extending Peanut 2 or 3 years, converting his base salary into a bonus, and spreading out that number over the life of the contract could increase CHI's cap to16 or 17 million.

Free Agency

     After solving cap space issues, Bears GM Phil Emery can begin to address team needs. With the amount of quality OTs available via free agency, he has to strike fast to obtain the player he likes the most. NYG has set the market for LTs with Will Beatty's 5 year $38.5 million deal. He was Pro Football Focus' 4th rated OT last year and the 3rd best OT entering free agency. Andre Smith, Sebastian Vollmer, Branden Albert, Jake Long, etc...The Bears cannot hesitate, not for a second. CHI has already tendered a deal to DT/Nate Collins and Pro Football Talk reported they are also in talks with extending LB/Nick Roach. DE/Corey Wootton also played well enough for an extension. No news on DE/Israel Idonije yet, but with all the youth on the D-Line, my guess is he's gone. What gets a lot of play in Chicago Sports Media but is actually a minimal issue is Brian Urlacher. In terms of importance, Urlacher barely rings more then a mention in this post. He'll either sign a minimal deal or he's gone.

Draft Strategy

     The Bears have picks in the 1st Round (20th pick) 2nd Round (50th pick) 4th (TBA), 5th (TBA), and 6th (TBA). As it stands, CHI has a chance to draft two starters and s/t players. Reaching for the 6th best offensive lineman in the 1st Round doesn't sound appeasing. WR, TE, DE will be the best players available at 20; the smart move may be to move out of the first round for extra picks in 2nd and/or 3rd. Coaxing MIA to swap their two 2nd round picks will set the Bears up with the 42nd, 50th, and 54th overall picks. Players that should be available to the Bears: TE's: Zack Ertz, Travis Kleece, and Gavin Escobar. OT's: Kyle Long, Terron Armstead, WR's: Markus Wheaton, Justin Hunter, Terrance Williams, LB's: Alec Ogletree, Kevin Minter, DL's Jesse Williams, John Jenkins, and Margus Hunt. SF now has two picks in the 2nd Round, JAX has high picks in 2nd and 3rd round; The 2013 draft could be a banner year for Emery, if he has the nerve and is a little creative.



Bears 1st Round targets: OL, TE, & LB

          NFL Combine on tap this weekend; that means lock down time, with a laptop, an iPhone, and the NFL Network. Much of the Bears draft strategy is still murky. As of today, CHI has approximately $10 million in cap space for 2013. If they choose to re-work Peppers and Tillman, it may increase up to $20 million but Phil Emery has kept a lid on all off season strategies. Henry Melton presents another obstacle for CHI. If the Bears cannot agree on a long term deal with Melton, they'll have to decide if he's worth a Franchise Tag. Either way, Emery has to draft players that will be ready to step in and contribute from day one.
          After analyzing their needs, the Bears will be targeting OL, TE, and LB in the 1st Round. With the NFL Combine underway, Bears fans can start breaking down these players, who should be in play with the 20th pick.

Chance Warmack/OG-Alabama: Warmack is the best interior lineman in this draft. There is a long shot that Warmack falls to the 20th pick, if so, it's a no brainer selection.

Lane Johnson/OT-Oklahoma: Johnson impressed scouts with his size and athleticism at the Senior Bowl. If he has a great Combine may go top 15.

Tyler Eifert/TE-Notre Dame: Prototypical TE, can run down the seam, make the tough catches, and has the size and athleticism it takes to dominate at the next level. His 40 time will be huge.

Zach Ertz/TE-Stanford: Was caught behind Coby Fleener on Stanford's depth chart last couple of years, exploded in 2012. Great hands, size/speed prospect, and is a polished route runner. He suffered his first Combine drawback; arms only measured at 31 inches, which is real short for the TE position.

Manti Te'o/LB-Notre Dame: All World LB coming out of high school, lived up to expectations in career at Notre Dame. Had questions about pass coverage capabilities coming into his Senior year, then had 7 interceptions. Alas, not the brightest bulb in the world.

Alec Ogletree/LB-Georgia: Tremendous speed, attacks ball carriers, dominated in SEC play, potential superstar talent BUT has tremendous character issues. Te'o and Olgletree should be selected somewhere in the Top 12 but non-football questions will drop them in the 1st Round. Might reclaim top tier status with Combine workouts, both will be HIGH VALUE picks at #20.

Screw you Keith Law!

     The barren White Sox farm system has been derided both locally and nationally. Whether it's Dan Bernstein regurgitating "they're players NOT PROSPECTS!" every White Sox segment on The Score or ESPN baseball guru Keith Law rating their system 28th; the Sox get raked over the coals anytime prospects are mentioned. Dread not Sox fans, they have made some dynamic moves the last couple years and regardless of what the experts think, we have much to look forward to. Before analyzing where they're at today, let's try and find out how they got here in the first place.
     The White Sox have been aggressive in moving along their top prospects when warranted. John Danks, Gordon Beckham, Alexei Ramirez, Chris Sale, and Addison Reed all zoomed through without spending much time in the minors. Where would their system be rated if Beckham, Sale, and Reed all stayed down a year or two? Where would the Sox be if they weren't in the majors producing? Can you imagine AAA Charlotte with Sale, Viciedo, Reed, and Beckham in 2010 or 2011? Wouldn't Baseball America rank them top ten or top five? Teams who move along top prospects to the big club will always naturally be void of talent at the top of said list.
    David Wilder set back Latin American operations almost 10 years. Aside from committing fraud and damaging the Sox reputation; Wilder was overvaluing talent in order to skim money off the top of their bonuses. Since 2005, when Wilder assumed control of international scouting, none of those overvalued players advanced in their system. In turn, Buscones (street agents) kept their good players away and the White Sox Latin American operations ran aground. The ship wasn't righted until they hired Marco Paddy away from the Blue Jays in 2011. After spending only $740,000 on International Free Agents two years ago, the Sox dropped $2.9 million in 2012. Other teams have spent more but this is a drastic improvement for the White Sox.
     Rick Hahn, Buddy Bell, Marco Paddy, and Doug Laumann makeup the new Southside brass. They've had control for the better part of two years and 2013 becomes a critical evaluation point for the quartet.
If players reach immediate goals and potential, the Sox and their fans will have a lot to be happy about. Here are some key players who can/should advance in 2013:

• Courtney Hawkins-Drafted by Sox with 13^th overall pick out of high school in the 2012 First Year player draft. Struggled at first, he then caught fire when accelerated through Rookie, A, and Advanced A-Ball.  Had some contact issues but at 18 years old, it’s not a big deal right now. Hits for power, hits for average, has speed, has an arm, and can play defense; a true 5-Tool Prospect. Projects as a RF

Stat line: 8 HR, 33 RBI, 11 SB, .284 AVG, .324 OBP, .480 SLG, .804 OPS, .380 wOBA

Note: wOBA is a stat that gives linear weights to each plate appearance. Doubles > Singles/Walks, Triples > Doubles, etc…Average is usually around .330

• Trayce Thompson-Has athletic pedigree, dad and 2 brothers played in NBA. Thompson is a 4-Tool prospect but strikes out way too much (around 30%) Has serious power, speed, and is an excellent defender. His walks have increased the last couple of years, but will need to cut down on K's in order to fulfill expectations as a prospect. Projects as a CF

         2012 Stat Line: 25 HR, 96 RBI, 21 SB, .267 AVG, .352 OBP, .503 SLG, .854 OPS, .383 wOBA

• Carlos Sanchez-Signed as an International Free Agent from Venezuela two years ago as a 17 year old. Began to tear up A ball after his first year. Was promoted up to A+, AA, and AAA in 2012. Tapered off in 11 games at Charlotte then went to the AFL and won the batting title. Sanchez can play all infield positions, doesn’t have power but can hit to all fields, gets on base, has a lot of speed, and is a slick defender. Top of the order hitter who has shot up all prospect list and through the Sox organization. Projects as SS/2B

2012 Stat Line: 1 HR, 56 RBI, 26 SB, .323 AVG,  .378 OBP, .403 SLG .781 OPS, .355 wOBA

• Erik Johnson –Drafted in 2^nd Round of 2011, Johnson is a big righty with a power arm. Has a fastball, slider, and a developing change-up. Had a cup of coffee in Rookie Ball after he was drafted, then advanced two levels in 2012. Looked strong at A and A+ pitching 90 innings, and keeping a sub 3.00 at both levels. Projects as middle-rotation starter.

2012 Stat Line: 2.58 ERA, 94.1 INN, 30 BB, 89 SO, 1.230 WHIP

Other players to keep an eye on: Jared Mitchell/OF-produced after 2 years removed from broken ankle and is in a make or break year, Keon Barnum/1B-teenage prospect with huge upside. Was destroying rookie ball when he was shut down with a sore shoulder. Besides Mitchell, Barnum is the only other LH with power in the system, Scott Snodgress/LHP- drafted out of Stanford as a bullpen pitcher then converted into a starter. Has shown steady improvement his two years with the Sox and has the potential to be a number 3 or 4 starter, Andre Rienzo/RHP- electric stuff, was suspended 50 games for PEDs, came back and dominated through 2 levels and the AFL, Kevan Smith/C-Big Catcher who gets on base and hits for power and really good defensively, 2013 will determine if he's a starter or bench player, Marcus Semien/SS-Drafted twice by the White Sox, Semien took a big step up in production in 2012. Infielders who can hit for power are always in demand.

    

Bears Off-Season Report Part 4: WR

          Chicks dig the long ball; it's no different in the NFL. Teams like the Saints, Giants, Packers, 49ers and even the Ravens have invested team resources in WRs who have homerun speed. After years of sub par talent at the wideout position, Phil Emery traded for Brandon Marshall and drafted Alshon Jeffery. He's not finished yet. None of the Bears WRs have the homerun speed needed to stretch out a defense or scare opposing safeties. With players like Marshall and Jeffery, there should be mismatches down the field to take advantage of. There are a couple of big names on the free agent market, but considering other team needs, signing a Mike Wallace or Victor Cruz becomes cost prohibitive. Luckily for the Bears, this year is loaded with WR talent that will permeate through the first 5 rounds of the NFL Draft.


Here are the best deep threat WRs in this year's Draft:

• Cordarrelle Patterson-TEN, 6'3: 200lbs: 4.40/40 Patterson has size, speed, and a physical preseance on the field. A part of and amazing WR core at TEN, he came in as a heralded JUCO player and produced for the Vols. Grabbed 46 REC, 778 YDS, and 5 TDs receiving. Had 2 TDs and 772 YDS returning. And finally 3TDs and 308 YDS rushing. Patterson still needs to work on his route running but he is a PLAYER. 1st Round Grade
• Tavon Austin-West Virgina, 5'9: 180lbs: 4.35/40 Austin is small, very small...BUT his speed and agility are OFF THE CHARTS. 4.35 is a conservative estimate of his 40 time, many expect him to run a sub 4.30 at the combine. He's is every bit quick as he is fast. Amazing start and stop ability, great in space and highly, HIGHLY productive. Went for 114 REC, 1289 YDS receiving, 645 YDS rushing and 16 TDs. 1st round Grade
• Marcus Wheaton-Oregon, 6'0: 185lbs: 4.45/40 Polished WR, has a quick step and gets down the field fast. Played in a fast tempo offense and increased his production every year. Impressed scouts with a great Senior Bowl. With a good combine, may get bumped to the 1st Round. 2nd Round Grade.
• Justin Hunter-TEN, 6'4: 200lbs: 4.45/40 Another one of Tennessee's "Freaks" Hunter played sparingly his freshmen and sophomore year then exploded in 2012. Was stuck behind Da'Rick Rogers and Patterson on the depth chart until Rogers was dismissed this past September. Hunter is a smooth size/speed athlete, has a large catching radius, and produced in the SEC at all three WR positions. 2nd Round Grade.
• Da'Rick Rogers-Tennessee Tech, 6'3: 200lbs: 4.45/40 Came out of high school as one of the top recruits in the entire country. Played as a true freshmen and tore up the SEC as a sophmore. Big, fast, physical, Rogers toy'd with DBs and Safeties in college. Consistently beat press, zone, and double teams. Rogers is a boss. Negatives; he's a drama queen that was kicked out of TEN last year. Transferred to Tennessee Tech and dominated as he should have. High Risk/PHENOMANAL Reward potential. 2nd Round Grade based solely on character concerns.
• Stedman Bailey-West Virginia, 5'10 200lbs: 4.48/40 Bailey took advantage of the attention demanded by teammate Tavon Austin to the tune of 114 REC, 1622 YDS, and 25 TD's. West Virginia plays in a dismantled Big East but Bailey has dominated non-conference opponents LSU, OK, OK ST, Baylor, and Clemson. Shorter WR, very good on deep plays, attacks the ball, and plays with toughness. Like Justin Hunter, Bailey has played all three WR positions. Lacks the elite athletic ability of Tavon Austin, but so does just about every other WR. 2nd-3rd Grade
• Marquise Goodwin-Texas, 5'9: 175lbs: 4.3/40 Goodwin competed in Track & Field for USA at the London Olympics. Had a pedestrian career at Texas, doesn't look good on film; then Goodwin showed up at the Senior Bowl and destroyed the competition. Like Austin, Goodwin is expected to run a sub 4.3 at the combine. 4th Round Grade
• Tavarres King-Georgia, 6'0: 190lbs: 4.48/40 King had an ok career at Georgia. Quick first step, gets down the field fast, and displays solid athleticism. While his numbers weren't that impressive he did average 22 Yards/Play. Has a slight frame and will need to put on weight, didn't catch the pall with the consistency needed to be drafted in first two days of the draft. 4th Round Grade.

Best of the rest: Ace Sanders/South Carolina, Marcus Davis/Virginia Tech, Chris Harper/Kansas St, Denard Robinson/Michigan

The Bear Off-Season Report Part 3: TE

     What can be said about the Bears TEs that hasn't been said already. Atrocious. Dastardly. Beyond Contempt. Putrid. Okay, I guess I found a few new adjectives. It's safe to say that Kellen Davis and/or Matt Spaeth are probably out. Ditto for Kyle Adams. So what can be done at TE? There are some decent free agents available, a couple of prime time 1st Rounders, and a lot of depth in the middle rounds of this year's draft. Emery and Trestman will have to decide what the priorities are on offense. Do they look at O-Line in the first round? What kind of TE do they need? Is getting a deep-threat at WR more important? Whatever the decision, talent will be there for the taking. The Bears lacked any real threat going down the seam consistently. Edwin Rodriguez surprised many with his ability to block but was seldom used in the pass game. Even in an expanded role, he's still more of an H-Back. Look for the Bears to lock up a big, pass-catching TE (who at the very least won't fall down every time the ball hits his hands)

The free agent crop of TEs is well stocked. A lot of young guys coming off their rookie deals who have been productive. Free Agents:

• Jared Cook-TEN: Cook is big, fast, athletic and productive. Has put up numbers even though QB play in TEN has been suspect. He's 25 and coming off his rookie deal. TEN probably will  Franchise Cook (which carries a modest $5 million) so the Bears may be out of luck. He's the top available free agent.
• JerMichael Finley-GB: Bears fans are familiar with Finley. He's talented and fits like a glove in Green Bay's offense. Very productive, as are most weapons in Green bay. Missed a large chunk of the 2010 season with a knee injury but bounced back in 2011. Green Bay has put a lot of money in their offense with long-term deals given to Jordy Nelson and James Jones. Greg Jennings will likely be allowed to walk while Finley's status remains up in the air.
• Dennis Pitta-BAL: Pitta is a very interesting story; walked on to BYU as a WR, switched to TE, played his freshman year, then when a a two year mission in the Dominican Republic. Came back to BYU and broke all kinds of NCAA TE records. Drafted by BAL in the 4th round of the 2010 Draft and was slowly developed. Had a breakout year this season and is now in the Super Bowl. BAL would love to re-up with Pitta but they have a huge Joe Flacco problem. Because of his Mormon mission, Pitta is older than either Cook or Finley (he's 27)

          Best of the rest: Martellus Bennent-NYG, Brandon Myers-OAK, Fred Davis-WAS

The draft has provided a lot of value TEs in recent years. Coby Fleener, Kyle Rudolph, Jimmy Graham, etc...This year isn't any different. TE Prospects:

• Tyler Eifert-Notre Dame: There are two TEs that have 1st round grades and Eifert tops that list (although that may change after the NFL Combine.) Everyone has seen his highlights; Great hands, attacks the ball at the high point, was one of the few Notre Dame players in the National Championship game who showed up (clowned Alabama 1st Round CB prospect Dee Milner ). 2nd Team All-American, Mackey Award Winner in 2012.
• Zack Ertz-Stanford: The only other TE with a 1st Round grade thus far, Ertz is another size/speed prospect with great hands and a lot of production at Stanford. Had to sit behind Coby Fleener for his chance to display his skills and came through with 69 REC, 898 YD, 6 TD. May be faster than Eifert while being just has physically imposing
• Jordan Reed-Florida: Undersized at 6'2 but makes up for it with speed, quickness, and agility. Might be fastest TE in the draft, played in a anemic Florida Offense but still managed to produce solid numbers. Needs to bulk up and not as polished a route runner as Ertz or Eifert. 3rd Round Grade.
• Travis Kelce-Cincinnati: Has experience playing with his hand on the ground and in the slot. Exploded with production for the Bearcats this year; 45 REC, 722YD, 8TD including an 80 yard TD vs Duke with 44 seconds left to win the prestigious Belk Bowl. Kelce will be the first Bearcat taken and is a prospect with huge upside. He presently has a 3rd Round Grade but with a good combine can shoot up draft boards.

           Best of the rest: Vance McDonald-Rice, Gavin Escobar-San Diego St., Dion Sims-Mich St,   
           Nick Kasa-Colorado

The Bear Off-Season Report Part 2: OG

          As the 2012 NFL season wore on, injuries and ineffectiveness ravaged the Bears on the interior of the O-line. Chilo Rachal was a failure, Chris Spencer would've been fine except he lost his spot to Rachal, and Lance Louis was the victim of Jared Allen's bush league crack back that put him on IR. The Bears were left inserting undrafted free agent James Brown (off their practice squad) and Gabe Carimi (played on one leg) to finish the season.
          SELF-SCOUTING. This is why Phil Emery was hired as GM. Are James Brown and Lance Louis the answers at OG? If not for the injury, Louis (UFA) would've been extended; now he and the Bears are in limbo. James Brown was signed as a priority UFA out of Troy. He was a long term tackle prospect before having to suit up at OG. When will Lance Louis be healthy? Where is Carimi better suited? Emery will have to determine how to use resources to get better production at OG. There's a lot of talent at the guard position in this year's draft but selecting a starter will most certainly have to be done in the first 2 rounds. Here are the top guards coming out of the college:

• Chance Warmack, Alabama: Warmack dominated SEC play and is a Top 15 player, maybe top 10. If he lasts until pick #20, the Bears would be hard pressed to pass up a player who has a real good chance to be a perennial pro bowler.  
• Jonathan Cooper, UNC: Cooper is a bit undersized but his athleticism and explosiveness are highly graded. Cooper was a 3 year starter at Carolina, which averaged 193 yards rushing per game in 2012 and earned himself All-American honors. Warmack and Cooper are the only true OGs who have a 1st Round Grades.
• Barrett Jones, Alabama: Barrett Jones started 25 games at RG his first two years at Alabama, earning Freshman All-American, 3rd Team All-American honors, and a National Championship in 2009. His Junior year, Jones was switched to LT, earned All-American honors, won the Outland Trophy as the nation's best linemen and a second National Championship. When he became a Senior Jones was switched to C, earned All-American honors again, won the Rimington Award for being the nation's best Center, and yes, another National Championship. The most versitile linemen in the draft, has excellent fundamentals, doesn't have or need brute strength, great at using his hands and feet, stays on top of his blocks; doesn't exhibit great explosiveness or athleticism; had foot surgery and is out 3-4 months.
• Dallas Thomas, Tennessee: Like Jones, Dallas Thomas has played multiple positions at Tennessee. Started his first two years at LT then was moved inside to LG. Athletic, powerful, and with solid measurables, Thomas won 2nd Team All-SEC honors at his new position. His versatility gives him a 1st Round Grade, and a lot of scouts think he can transition back outside and play LT.
• Larry Warford, Kentucky: MASSIVE. 6'3, 330lbs and has a mauling style of play. Very strong, finishes off defenders when he gets them on their heels. Has strong hands, while not athletic, Warford does have a quick first step that allows him to pull as well as blow defenders of the ball. Has a 2nd Round Grade.

Best of the rest: Alvin Bailey-Arkansas, Hugh Thornton-Illinois, Omoregie Uzzi-Georgia Tech

The Bear Off-Season Report Part 1: OT

     Now that Phil Emery has hired Marc Trestman, he can now focus on the roster. Emery will still have to lock down a DC with the exit of Rod Marinelli, which will affect player depth on DEF, however the picture is clear on what Bears team needs are.

Team Needs: OT, OG, TE, WR, MLB, CB, DE

OT: Phil Emery ignored the offensive line last year, that clearly will not be the case again. The Score's Dan Bernstein reported Bears brass are still high on OT Gabe Carimi while confirming his knee never fully recovered from surgery last off-season. Essentially Carimi played on one leg last year. However, he will have to compete with Johnathon Scott (who did a decent job securing the right side) at RT. J'Marcus Webb on the other hand has proven to be nothing more then a BN player. Able to play in a pinch, but not a long term answer. Drafting the 4th or 5th best LT in the 1st RD of the 2013 NFL Draft would be gambling next season. The wise move here is to find a professional OT in free agency. Here are the top free agents:

• LT Ryan Clady, DEN: Highest rated OT by Pro Football Focus, protects Peyton Manning's blindside, most likely to get tagged if not extended.
• RT Andre Smith, CIN: Smith was drafted as an LT with the 6th overall pick in 2009 from Alabama and immediately turned into a big tub of goo. His first two years in the NFL were awful. He was out of shape, had a bad attitude, and didn't seem to exhibit any toughness. Going into the 2011 season CIN rightfully passed on extending Smith's contract which would've inflated his rookie deal to 6 years. That's when the light turned "ON". Andre Smith has been dominating the last two years at RT and has finally displayed the skills which netted him a Top 10 Draft Grade. He now enters free agency as a UFA. If CIN chooses to use the Franchise Tag on Andre Smith, it'd be hard to justify paying that kind of money to an RT with Andrew Whitworth firmly entrenched at LT.
• RT Sebastian Vollmer, NE: Vollmer is a massive Tackle (6'8 320lbs) who will be marketed as an LT (which he has played sparingly in NE) and that may push him out of the Patriots' price range. He has dominated at RT, filled in at LT, and transitioned between both positions smoothly.
• LT Jake Long, MIA: Ah, the controversial Jake Long. Was the best LT in the game 2 years ago; My oh my how the mighty have fallen. His play has dropped off significantly the last two years, likely because of injuries. After not missing a game his first 3 years, Long missed time in 2011 with a back ailment and was eventually put on IR with a torn right biceps injury. He struggled this season and ended up back on IR with a torn left triceps. He's still very talented but has caught the injury bug. The arm injuries shouldn't scare anybody, but that back aliment is another story.
• LT Jermon Bushrod, NO: Drafted in the 4th Round of the 2007 draft, the Saints developed Bushrod overtime and he's turned into a Pro Bowl LT. Had a down year in 2012, but with so much going on with NO, not a complete shock. NO is desperate to resign him but they have serious cap issues.
• Branden Albert, KC: While playing OG at Virgina, the Cheifs committed early to switching Albert to LT. Baptized by fire his rookie season, but held his own. Had a down year in 2010 but has shown himself to be professional LT the last two years. KC is in a bind. Their cap space is limited and have two monster free agents to sign, Dwayne Bowe and Branden Albert.

Best of the rest: LT William Beatty-NYG, LT Sam Baker-ATL, RT Gosder Cherilus-DET

A Chicago Bears Plan: In Depth

My Bears plan to the Super Bowl:
1) Tag Matt Forte-Paying any long money is a mistake. He's a helluva RB with a great tool set but a RB nonetheless. Ask TEN, MIN, or CAR about allocating big money and years to an RB.
2) Sign Vincent Jackson-He's the big WR Jay Cutler needs. The Bears wouldn't do to bad picking up Marques Colston but VJax can blow the top off a DEF in a Power Running/Deep Play-Action Pass OFF.
3) Sign Jared Gaither. It was mentioned to me by another football expert that the Bears should make a run at Carl Nicks All Pro OG from NO. I'd like this very much. If there was money to add a big time WR and Nicks, I'd say pull the trigger. But if money is a factor, signing Gaither provides insurance at both tackle positions. He's young (25) and after being cut by KC beacasue of injuries, was picked up by SD and did an exceptional job filling in for Marcus McNeill at LT protecting Philip Rivers the 2nd half of the season

Draft:

1st Rd-DL I've become a believer that NFL success starts upfront with the Offensive and Defensive Line. The Bears have gotten considerably young on the O-Line. They now have to balance that with getting some youth on the D-Line, wheter that be inside or outside: Dontari Poe DT, Melvin Ingram DL Whitney Mercilus DE, Fletcher Cox DT

2nd Round-CB With one reliable CB, the Bears need bodies in the secondary. This draft is DEEP at the corner postion and will make landing a starter in the second round feasable: Jamell Fleming Stephen Gillmore, Trumaine Johnson, Josh Robinson

3rd RD (73rd Pick) WR-Signing a true No.1 WR addresses the need of a weapon, but not depth. The Bears will still need to draft a couple wideouts in the middle rounds. Johnny Knox cannot be counted on, Devin Hester will have a diminshed role in the OFF, Roy Williams is out, and Dane Sanzenbacher is well Dane Sanzenbacher:Marvin McNutt, Mohammed Sanu, Nick Toon, Brian
Quick, Tommy Streeter

3rd Rd (80th Pick) S/CB/LB-This pick is where the Bears can go in a couple of different ways. Addressing the LB would be great but if the Bears picked up the best player available, I'd be fine with that too: Mychal Kendricks, Harrison Smith, George Iloka, Markelle Martin, or Josh Norman

4th Rd TE/LB James Hanna, Vontaze Burfict, LaDarius Green, James
Michael-Johnson

5th Rd-WR-Dwight Jones, Jeff Fuller, AJ Jenkins, Greg Childs

NFL Mock Draft 1.0

     After much research, my first 2012 NFL Mock Draft is finally complete. I will only have two versions, 1 Pre-Combine and 1 Post-Combine/Pro Days. This will definitely look a lot different after Juniors are evaluated, interviewed, and ranked. A quick overview of sources include scouting reports from Wes Bunting, Rob Rang, Todd McShay, personal correspondence from reporters Sean Jensen of the Chicago Sun-Times, Matt Bowen of the Chicago Tribune, and my own game notes. An official report of my sources will be out in a couple of weeks. Thanks for taking a look and I look forward to any responses...God Bless Football

1. IND: Andrew Luck QB Stanford
2. STL: Matt Kalil OT USC
3. MIN: Justin Blackmon WR Oklahoma St
4. CLE: Morris Claibourne CB LSU
5. TB: Dre Kirkpatrick CB Alabama
6. WAS: Robert Griffen III QB Baylor
7. JAX: Riley Reiff OT Iowa
8. *MIA: Trent Richardson RB Alabama
9. *CAR: David DeCastro OG Stanford
10. BUF: Quinton Coples DE UNC
11. *KC: Jonathon Martin OT Stanford
12. *SEA: Michael Brockers DE LSU
13. ARI: Michael Floyd WR Notre Dame
14. DAL: Peter Konz OG/C Wisconsin
15. PHI: Luke Kuechly LB Boston College
16. NYJ: Courtney Upshaw OLB/DE Alabama
17. CIN: Devon Still DT Penn St
18. SD: Mike Adams OT Ohio St
19. CHI: Melvin Ingram DE South Carolina
20. TEN: Jerel Worthy DT Michigan St
21. CIN: Lamar Miller RB Miami
22. CLE: Kendall Wright WR Baylor
23. DET: Janoris Jenkins CB North Alabama
24. PIT: Kelechi Osemele OG Iowa St
25. DEN: Alfonzo Dennard CB Nebraska
26. HOU: Alshon Jeffery WR South Carolina
27. NE: Mark Barron S Alabama
28. GB: Nick Perry DE USC
29. BAL: Vontaze Burfict LB ASU
30. SF: Ryan Tannenhill QB Texas A&M
31. NE: Fletcher Cox DE Miss St
32. NYG Coby Fleener TE Stanford

* denotes pending coin flip for slot

NFL DRAFT: Big Board 21-32

     And this list rounds out my Pre-Combine Big Board. Once underclassmen are reviewed at the NFL Combine and all players have thier Pro-Days, I'll have an updated Big Board sometime in late March and while my 1st Edition NFL Mock draft will be out next week. Enjoy...


          21.   Mark Barron S Alabama
          22.   Nick Perry DE USC
          23.   Janoris Jenkins CB North Alabama
          24.   Mike Adams OT Ohio St
          25.   Alshon Jeffery WR South Carolina
          26.   Lamar Miller RB Miami
          27.   Coby Fleener TE Stanford
          28.   Kelechi Osemele OG Iowa St
          29.   Jerel Worthy DT Michigan St
          30.   Whitney Mercilus DE Illinois
          31.   Vontaze Burfict LB ASU
          32.   Ryan Tannenhill QB Oklahoma St

NFL DRAFT: Big Board 11-20

    Just a couple of reminders as I post up NFL Draft Prospects ranks 11-20. This is a Pre-Combine Big Board. Not a Mock Draft. These are the best players on the board, regardless of team needs. On a side note, most 1st editions of Big Boards and Mocks come out in late January because of the Senior Bowl, which is the first of the post-season college all-star games. While the game itself is more of an afterthought, the practices and workouts are mobbed by NFL scouts and sports media. Enjoy.

     11.   Michael Brockers DE LSU
     12.   Dre Kirkpatrick CB Alabama
     13.   Devon Still DT Penn St.
     14.   Melvin Ingram DE South Carolina
     15.   Michael Floyd WR ND
     16.   Courtney Upshaw OLB/DE Alabama
     17.   Peter Konz OG/C Wisconsin
     18.   Luke Kuechly LB Boston College
     19.   Alfonzo Dennard CB Nebraska
     20.   Kendall Wright WR Baylor

NFL DRAFT: My top ten...

     As we wind down the 2011-2012 football season; GM's, Player Personnel, and fans start gearing up for the NFL Draft. Mocks begin to filter out online, Mel Kiper begins to corner the market on hair gel in preparation for April and every football fan hopes their team scores on a sleeper. While Bears fans wait for a GM (I'm backing Marc Ross), we can already peer into what the future holds. In the ensuing months I'll post my own mocks and a full big board but for now I'll leave you all with my 10 NFL Draft Prospects: have fun dissecting.

1. Andrew Luck QB Stanford
2. Matt Kalil OT USC
3. Morris Claiborne CB LSU
4. Justin Blackmon WR Oklahoma St
5. Robert Griffen III QB Baylor
6. Trent Richardson RB Alabama
7. Riley Reiff OT Iowa
8. David DeCastro OG Stanford
9. Quinton Coples DE/DT UNC
10. Jonathon Martin OT Stanford

The City of Chicago v. Jerry Angelo

Jay Cutler, Julius Peppers, Devin Hester, and Super Bowl XLI.

     These are the key pieces of evidence for the defense. They'll thrill you with the hall of fame moments of Devin Hester's career, they'll want you to marvel at the amazing talent of Julius Peppers, they'll remind you of names like Chris Chandler, Henry Burris, Kordell Stewart, Cade McNown, Rex Grossmen, Craig Krenzel, and Chad Hutchinson when Jay Cutler is put on display. The great Super Bowl run of 2006 that was thwarted by the injuries of Mike Brown and Tommie Harris, yes they'll use that too. The defense will ask you, the Court of Public Opinion, to weigh all this evidence and come back with a verdict of not guilty. NOT this prosecutor, Not this Bear fan, Not this life long Chicagoan. I'll press you to hang this administrator, his incompetent choices, and strike a blow right through the heart of mediocrity and find this General Manager guilty on all counts of ineptitude:

1.      Count One- Criminally Negligent Drafting.
2.      Count Two- Felony Reaching on Draftees
3.      Count Three- Felony Fraud; Evaluating
4.      Count Four- Felony Fraud; Expectations

I will prove, beyond reasonable doubt, beyond any doubt that any verdict other than guilty would be blasphemous.
     There can be no sustained success without developing talent from within. PIT, NE, GB, BAL, NO, NYG; each perennial winners and all have developed talent through the draft. Name any premier free agent any of these teams have signed? Jerry Angelo's reckless draft strategies have handicapped the Bears for almost a decade. Dan Bazuin-2nd Round Pick (passed on Charles Johnson), Tank Johnson 2nd Round Pick (passed on Darnell Dockett), Garrett Wolfe-3rd round Pick (passed on Michael Bush). Reaching on the aforementioned players have left the Bears with empty rosters spots and zero depth. Good teams are suppose to be able to get by bottom feeders (OAK, KC, DEN, and SEA) if their starting QB goes down for a couple weeks. That's why it's important to draft the best player available. When you reach on a player like a Dan Bazuin or a Michael Okwo or a Bobby Gray, you're gambling away a possible starter. Packers draft Greg Jennings in 2006, James Jones in 2007 then draft Jordy Nelson in 2008, why? Because they were the best players available. The Giants draft a Osi Umenyiora in 2003 then pick up Justin Tuck in 2005; BEST PLAYER AVAILABLE. New England will trade a Richard Seymour and be able to reload without having to rebuild, why? Because sustained success can only happen with successful drafts. Jerry Angelo has criminally disregarded sound draft principals, leaving the Bears with faint hopes of competing for division titles rather than Super Bowl Championships.
     The Cutler trade, the second highlight of Jerry Angelo's tenure as GM, was a bold move. The price was steep but we all accepted it. The ensuing year proved one thing, Cutler needed weapons. The answer? Devin Hester. The greatest returner in the history of the NFL is a 4th or 5th WR on another team but Angelo wasted 3 years of Cutler's career on this singular belief. Securing a real QB was a must but not taking full advantage of Cutler's skills proves the arrogance of Jerry Angelo killed most of our franchise quarterback's youth. This alone should be grounds for a guilty verdict. What other team would force feed this move? What other team would waste Jay Cutler and Devin Hester's prime years with one action? It's more than pitiful ladies and gentlemen, its criminal.
     The Bears front office has provided false hopes for us all. We were suppose to believe after last years NFC title game the Bears were ready for the Packers. We were suppose to believe after the Super Bowl run in 2006 the Bears would be a top tier team. While expectations for greatness were laid at our feet, Jerry Angelo knowingly risked the fate of the Chicago Bears to appease his arrogant draft choices, personnel decisions and have denied Chicago long-term success. Find this man guilty on all counts and send him back to the depths of NFL hell where he came from, Tampa Bay.

The Return...

     After being battered by labor issues, lockouts, greedy owners, and greedy players; it's finally over. The NFL, NBA, and MLB (yeah those bastards don't get a pass considering most owners have teams in multiple leagues) all did their best to ruin our sports universe. However, as the holidays approach, so to does peace. Come Christmas Day, everything comes around full circle.
     Chicago belongs to the Bears; it's gospel and no other franchise (Blackhawks, Bulls, Sox, and especially the Cubs) comes close. With that stipulation, Chicago celebrates all its legends regardless of league, like no other city. Almost every team can trace it's roots back to the beginning of its respective sport. The one expansion franchise of the group managed to produce a dynasty featuring the world's greatest athlete/basketball player anyone has ever known. Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen,Walter Payton, Frank Thomas, Ryan Sandberg, Mike Ditka, Mike Singletary, Mark Buhrele, Ernie Banks, Ronny Woo-Woo. All are household names, all are champions (except those cubbies), and all invoke memories of greatness. On Christmas day, Chicagoans everywhere can continue to admire one more.
     Derrick Martell Rose-MVP. Like a strike of lightning, Rose turned the NBA on its head in his 3rd year. There's a natural progession for a young star. He's suppose to take a couple of years, learn the NBA game, find his place, and grow. That's what should happen...unless he's a superstar. We knew he was good after his rookie year and we knew he could be great after his sophmore campaign. Now we know Rose is a once in a generation type of player. The athleticism, the skills, the need to be great, #1 posseses all the traits of a champion. In most cases, that's all a city should get. But not with Derrick Rose. Chicago's admiration drives deeper then basketball, deeper then sports.  We're able to see ourselves in Derrick Rose because he's cut from the same cloth.
     Unlike any other recent superstar this city has encountered, Rose is Chicago. Derrick Rose understands the fastest way to get to the submarine at the Museum of Science and Industry. He knows what color line will get him home the quickest. How the salt grinds under our shoes in winter, driving down LSD, running down a CTA bus, Jim's on Maxwell St, North Ave Beach, The Garfield Park Conservatory, block parties, the Bud Biliken Parade, The Field Museum, street fests; Chicago is Derrick Rose. We're going to celebrate his accomplishments because the city loves a winner. But it's Chicago soul that we see reflected in Rose that will carry his legend.

On the precipice of dominating the sports landscape.

     There are moments in the sports world where a city seems to become the focal point of all that exists. The Patriots, Red Sox, and Celtics clamped everyone's attention around the city of Boston. Pittsburg had us buzzing with the Steelers and Penguins. But in Chicago, acrimony seems second-hand. The Hawks needed to wait 40 years for Lord Stanley's Cup, the Bears are still chomping on the bit after Super Bowl XX, the Sox needed 88 years for another title, the Bulls living fat on Jordan's Dynasty, and the Cubs continuing to be fantastic losers. But wake up and smell D. Rose Chicago sports fans, there's something in the air...
     The Blackhawks took the NHL by storm last year. Die hards and bandwagon jumpers celebrated the run alike because this city loves championships. After slumbering through most of the regular season, the Hawks are winning at a torrid place and exploding up the playoff standings after hovering around 11th place. New players are figuring out their roles, Jonathon Towes has willed his team to win at all cost and Corey Crawford has secured the goalie position.
     Derrick Rose for his part is an MVP candidate and is leading the Bulls through the 2010-2011 NBA Odyssey. In an off-season that produced a shift in NBA superstars and expectations, the Bulls remained steady, hired a competent coach, fortified their roster, and are simply winning. Once considered a middle of the pack team, the Bulls have commanded everyone's attention and are competing with Boston to become the No.1 seed in the East.
     Faced with the decision to cut payroll, "The Chariman" Jerry Riensdorf bucked KW's rebuild plan and moved forward with the "ALL-IN" campaign. Bold moves, (Peavy, Rios, Dunn) bringing in young major league talent (Beckham, Sale, Morel) and excellent personal decisions (Ramirez, Quentin, Santos, Floyd, Jackson) have the Sox in a place to contend for a World Series the next three years. 
      I use to rip on the Bears brass for being to passive; but looking back at the last two off-seasons (Cutler and Peppers) proves they care about winning. Competing with Green Bay will give way to a vision. Actually, the best thing for the Bears might've been Green Bay winning the Super Bowl. Presently constituted, they are missing pieces. They now have the incentive to address their weaknesses in the draft instead of "reaching" on potential. Solidify the O-Line, signing a No.1 WR, and finding a player or players to create defensive pressure up the middle will put the Bears in a place to compete with the Packers.
     The Cubs are the cubs, and will continue their losing ways. It's who they are and what they do. Sorry Cub fans, you can only hope to become the Tampa Bay Rays in 3 years or so.
     As for the rest of the Chicago, something is bubbling. Hawks win last year, and are in a place to repeat as Stanley Cup champions, the Bulls are storming through the final leg of the regular season, leading the NBA in defense & shutting down the top teams. The Sox have added a bonifide left-handed  power hitter who'll become a superstar his numbers say he is. If Peavy can stay healthy, Sox fans can expect a playoff push for another World Series title for Ozzie and Co. The Bears ignored prognosticators, and made it all the way to the NFC Championship game in 2010. Be assured the front office is aware of the team's needs and have the stones to make those moves. They just need to be the right moves. Chicago is on the precipice of dominating the sports landscape and becoming the most talked about city in Sports. Yeah, I can dig that.

Economics of Luol Deng

     Derrick Rose has brought Chicago a magnificent oasis in the dead of winter. His basketball prowess has led to MVP talk and the Bulls challenging Boston and Miami for the No. 1 seed in the East. Rose has become a superstar and the insuing ripple effects have traveled far and wide...just ask Luol Deng. 
     The Bulls traded a 2nd Rd pick and $3 million for the rights to Luol Deng, given the production that should be considered a coup within itself. After 3 seasons of increased production, the Bulls saw it fit to extend Deng to a 6 year $71 million deal. And then the fun began.
   In a span of 3 years, Deng (and the Bulls) suffered both injuries and a coaching carousel that included Scott Skiles, Jimmy Boylan, Pete Myers before settling on Vinny Del Negro. Having to deal with inconsistent coaches is one obstacle; having to deal with Vinny Del Negro as a coach is bad for basketball and bad for America. Deng's '08-'09 numbers dipped to 14pts/game after only playing 48 games and he was dubbed a bust. 
     Deng's contract, like all NBA contracts, escaltes over time. Deng's '08-'09 campaign was no doubt a disappointment but he was only making $9 million. Given the injuries he had to deal with, that money was on point. His numbers bounced back last season to 17.6/7.3 (pts/reb) while making $10 million. At no point was he paid like stud. Crtics ripped Deng for not living up to his deal, for being soft, and not becoming a top 10 player in the league. Do you know what those guys get paid? Dirk Nowitzki comes in at No 10 on that list at just about $17 million. Even with all the Luol Deng All-Star talk now, he doesn't even crack the top 30!
     Comapre Deng to other Small Forwards in the league     
he's outplaying Rashard Lewis, Andre Igoudala, Andrei Kirilenko (all who are making millions more than Deng). While Rudy Gay and Paul Pierce are playing better, 20pts/6reb & 19pts/5reb respectively compared to Deng's 17.6pts/6.2reb both are making significantly more money as well. The only Small Forward who's a better value right now is Danny Granger. Considering that he and Deng make the same money, that's more of an anomaly. One big number I've left out is age. The only Small Forward on this list younger than Deng (25) is Gay (24). When Deng's contract hits 2014 and he's making $14.3 million, is it completely out of the realm of possibility that Deng cannot average 20pts and 7 or 8 boards a game. Wouldn't that certainly be worth every penny the Bulls are paying him. 
     The economics of Luol Deng dictate the Bulls are getting value for thier money. He's a 3rd option on offense, playing solid team and individual defense. Thibs and Rose are bringing out the best in Deng and the Bulls can take that to the bank.         

My 3 Point Offseason Plan for the Bears...IN DEPTH

We're going to have to deal with Aaron Rodgers and the Packers for the foreseeable future and need a prolonged strategy to combat those bastards. Here's my 3 point plan that would keep the Bears not only in contention for the NFC North, but to compete for Super Bowls:

1) DRAFT O-LINE...Ideally they should use the first 3 picks to bolster the O-line with talent and depth. There aren't any studs and a lot of boards have the first OT being taken at pick #20 which bodes well for the Bears since their first pick comes at #30. I'm hoping Gabe Carimi OT-Wisconsin drops the way Brian Bulaga dropped to the Packers last year. Carimi, who was a 4-year starter and Outland Trophy winner at Wisconsin, is a monster at 6'7 330lbs. Great drive blocker who can step in and play RIGHT NOW. Solidifying the Left Tackle position would drop Omiyale back to being a swing tackle off the bench, and strengthen the line overall. After drafting an OT, addressing OG and C would be the priority. Mike Pouncey, Rodney Hudson, and Orlando Franklin are all viable options in the 2nd Rd. Centers include Kistofer O'Dowd and Jake Kirkpatrick. If the Bears address CB or LB in the 3rd Rd, late round Centers Chase Beeler and Jason Klece could fit the bill. Bringing in young talent and depth is always the best way to go on the O-Line.

2) SIGN A NO. 1 WR...People have been slamming the Bears WR corps all season long. Their young, fast, quick, and will all be going into their 3rd or 4th years next year; I fully expect them all to step up. That being said, none of them are a true No.1 wideout. Vincent Jackson, Santonio Holmes, Sidney Rice, Braylan Edwards will all be UFA's (pending a new CBA) Signing one of these free agents sets up the Bears WR's 1-4. How would you feel about this lineup next year:
WR1-Sidney Rice
WR2-Johnny Knox
WR3-Earl Bennent
WR4-Devin Hester/TBA
Hester can focus COMPLETELY on Special Teams and the Bears can do more things with him, playing #23 at all WR's spots and as a 3rd Down back

3) Make a move for Albert Haynesworth...He's a malcontent and a bad character guy but I can't think of a better fit, scheme wise, for Fat Albert. The Bears run a 4-3, depend on the D-Line for the pass rush, Lovie Smith is a players coach and most importantly, they never quit on him. Aligning Haynesworth next to Peppers would put the fear of god into all divisional foes and contenders. It's a high-risk move, no doubt, but the rewards could, and I emphasize the word COULD, lead to many championships. That kind of pocket collapse and outside pressure are what the Bears hoped for with Tommie Harris; Albert Haynesworth double-downs that bet.

Adding youth and talent to the Offensive Line, signing a true No.1 Wideout, and landing Albert Haynesworth sets the Bears up to not only stack wins, but to stack championships.

Chicago Bears Declaration of Victory

     When in the course of Chicago's events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the baseball fandom which have separated them from one another, and assume among the powers of the Earth, the complete and utter destruction of the Green Bay Packers to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel the Chicago Bears to Victory.
     We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all Bears fans are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator George Papa Bear Halas, with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Victories, Celebrations, and Super Bowl Parades. That to secure these rights, The Chicago Bears were instituted amongst the NFL deriving their just powers from the consent of Bears fans everywhere. That whenever any team from Wisconsin becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the Chicago Bears to abolish, destroy, devour them; to institute football superiority.

Closer...Now and Tomorrow.

     Kenny Williams is a good G.M. I'll reserve the adjective great until the White Sox win another World Series. But he definitely keeps Chicago's attention. Signing Adam Dunn will give the Sox left-handed power for the next 4 years. Dunn will be a star on the Southside, blasting mammoth homeruns to everyone's delight. Now KW's working on re-signing Paul Konerko to make this team a contender next year. But I do not believe that is the only major move left to be made.
      The White Sox have had discussions with both St. Louis and Philadelphia about the OF. With the Phillies being interested in Carlos Quentin (following the departure of Jayson Werth) and Sox being interested in Colby Rasmus. Quentin can be had for the right price, but the move the Sox need to pounce on is Colby Rasmus.
     The kid is a stud. He's a power hitting left-hander who can play great defense in all outfield positions. He's a 23 year old whose numbers keep climbing. Rasmus had a falling out with Tony La Russa last season, the Cardnials just signed Lance Berkman and have two up and coming outfielders in Jon Jay and Allen Craig. It's a perfect storm of opportunity to land a young, talented position player. He won't be cheap, but packaging prospects in a 3 way trade with Philadelphia could possibly fit. Having an outfield with Alex Rios and Colby Rasmus patrolling the Southside gets the White Sox closer to a World Series now and tomorrow.

Purlpe Hearts...

     Growing up, my family continued the time honored Chicago Tradition of being indoctrinated as Bears Fans. We woke up Sunday morning, mother fired up the the stove and put out a spread that would've impressed Jesus at the Last Supper. Then we enjoyed our Bears. Through high school, the only football of any consequence was played on Sundays. The only interests I had in the NCAA came on NFL Draft day.
     Come my junior year, being a 16 year old, I needed to make some extra scratch. My mother, god bless her heart, heard about a security company that was hiring high school students to usher at various events around Chicago. There were concerts, trade shows, and sporting events. Given all my options, I chose the one that would least affect my social life. Northwestern Football games. All I'd have to do was get up on Saturday morning, jump on a school bus, and head off to Evanston, earn a cool $100, be home by 4pm, and enjoy my weekend. What I didn't foresee happening, what turned out to be a blessing that has expanded my knowledge and love for the game of football was the year...1996
     All I knew about Northwestern was they were great at academics and bad at football. My first day working, I received a purple windbreaker, a ticket to claim a hotdog for lunch, and a great view. Northwestern stormed out that season and took no prisoners. Darnell Autry, Pat Fitgzgerald, Dwayne Bates, Steve Schnur and co. led home victories against powerhouses like Notre Dame and Michigan. I witnessed the evolution of  mild mannered north suburbanites into crazed homers demanding more and more each week from their team. Gary Barnett became a household name, the Wildcats won the Big 10 Championship and punched a ticket to the Rose Bowl. I became a college football addict.
     I have a stable of college teams I now follow and support. Most are Big 10 (Illinois and NU) and there's always a flavor of the month (Oregon). Bowling on New Years Day has become another day to celebrate the wonderful game of football. As this season approached, Northwestern began a marketing campaign that invaded the Chicago landscape. Their simple message...Northwestern, Chicago's Big 10 Team. And the culminating event, a football game against Illinois at Wrigley Field. I'd prefer if they played at U.S. Cellular Field, but hey, I get the point. Growing purple hearts in Chicago is a genius way to expand the fan base for generations to come.