The Top 10 players most vital to the Chicago Bears’ success in 2008 – #2 Matt Forte
Continuing our list of…well…read the title, buddy.
# 2. Matt Forte
For a team that insists it gets “off the bus running,” the Bears could potentially find themselves this year struggling to get off the bus without tripping over their $1,800 Berluti’s.
To start, the team removes itself from the Sun Chips-lovin’ cancer himself, Cedric Benson. Then, they draft Chris Williams, a pass-blocking specialist, to start at left tackle when there are serious concerns over his toughness and run-blocking prowess. Lastly, the offensive line, while not entirely in shambles, remains a shadow of the one that paved the way to Super Bowl XLI.
If the running game is the key to the Bears’ success in ’08, consider rookie Matt Forte the keymaster. The Tulane product is touted as having the speed of Thomas Jones and the power of Cedric Benson. (Yes, believe it or not, Ced did have some power. How do you think he withstood all that cop’s pepper spray?)
Forte will need to step up his game quicker than most rookies are asked to, simply because the Bears will rely on him to move the chains. If he turns out to be a total bust, the Bears offense will sputter, along with any hopes of making the playoffs.*
*To be fair, Kevin Jones could possibly turn out to be a completely viable option at running back. We’re just too lazy to write it. Oh, I guess we just did.
By the way, nearly 60 people voted on the poll about the Bears’ running back situation:
68% say Matt Forte will be the opening day starter. 25% went with Kevin Jones. And 3% for Adrian Peterson and Garrett Wolfe, respectively.
[...] Booker 7. Rex Grossman 6. Chris Williams 5. Devin Hester 4. Brian Urlacher 3. Tommie Harris 2. Matt Forte 1. Mike Brown Posted under list, mike [...]
Bvar I hope you’re right as well. His vision is what’s stood out to me so far. Hopefully the offensive line can create some holes for him though… Ugh.
Bvar – I hope you’re right…
Mark my words…Matt Forte will prove to be an excellent draft pick within the first 4 games. I have seen him at Tulane, and what he has is an incredible ability to accelerate through an opening. He also has excellent vision, not to mention, the right attitude. This guy is a winner.
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