Jay Cutler may not be the only reason the Chicago Bears win or lose a game, but the veteran quarterback certainly figured to be a key factor in Sunday’s NFC matchup against the Seattle Seahawks at Soldier Field.
Since Week 16 of the 2009 season, the Bears had compiled a 27-10 record (.730) in games Cutler has started. He had completed 659 of 1,103 passes (59.7 percent) for 8,144 yards, 57 touchdowns and 35 interceptions for a passer rating of 86.6.
Cutler says he cares only about winning. Entering Sunday’s game, the Bears were 13-2 (.867) in Cutler’s previous 15 starts.
“Eight and three, that’s the only thing,” Cutler said of the Bears’ record this season entering the game. “I couldn’t tell you one stat. (Brandon Marshall) obviously is well-schooled on his stats. Not only his stats, but every other receiver in the league, so he’s got it down pat. That’s receivers for you. The good ones are all like that; they want the ball, and they want the ball a lot.”
Marshall figured to face a major challenge Sunday against the Seahawks’ large and physical cornerbacks Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner , who are allowed to play while appealing a possible four-game suspension for using Adderall, a banned substance.
“It’s different, obviously, because it’s not what we call the prototypical corner, so they present some different challenges,” Marshall said. “But I am excited about this matchup, man. I am happy they are playing. I am really excited they are playing. So, that’s good for the game. And I am ready to compete.”
The Bears also were hoping their patched-together offensive line could protect Cutler. With right guard Lance Louis out for the season with a knee injury, tackle Gabe Carimi has been plugged in at guard. Left tackle J’Marcus Webb knew he would have his hands full trying to slow down Seattle’s defensive end Chris Clemons.
"We’re a little banged up front, but that’s the NFL," Tice said. "Every team has issues. We brought in a veteran guy in Andre Gurode, and also moved a few guys around, and we’ll see how we do.”
“I have to get rid of the ball,” Cutler said. “Coach (Mike) Tice has got to dial up some good plays and keep those guys protected, throw a lot of different looks at the defensive line and the secondary. We have to get (Marshall) going. Hopefully, we get Matt Forte going a little bit so it’s a collective group. But I drive the thing so I have to get off to a fast start."
fmitchell@tribune.com
Twitter@kicker34
Bears Game Day: Focus on Cutler
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Bears Game Day: Focus on Cutler
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Bears Game Day: Focus on Cutler
