After watching two weeks of the playoffs, for how bad the Bears played this season, they played way too many of these teams close enough that with small changes, the outcomes could've been much different.

Just like 2023, the Bears were a better team than their record. We now know a lot of this was on Flus and the coaching staff.

The Bears had 5 games decided by a FG or less, two others by 6 or less, and then the NE game where they didn't even show up. That is 8 games. If they just won half of those, that is a 9-win team. Win 75%, and it's an 11-win team. 

With the right coaching staff, a few key FAs, a solid draft, and this team will look magically transformed come next summer.

 

59 minutes ago, adam said:

After watching two weeks of the playoffs, for how bad the Bears played this season, they played way too many of these teams close enough that with small changes, the outcomes could've been much different.

Just like 2023, the Bears were a better team than their record. We now know a lot of this was on Flus and the coaching staff.

The Bears had 5 games decided by a FG or less, two others by 6 or less, and then the NE game where they didn't even show up. That is 8 games. If they just won half of those, that is a 9-win team. Win 75%, and it's an 11-win team. 

With the right coaching staff, a few key FAs, a solid draft, and this team will look magically transformed come next summer.

 

That's why I think with the right coaching hire, we can contend for the playoffs. Look at how many playoff teams we had close losses to. Washington, Texans, Minnesota, GB, Detroit. We beat the Rams. We are close, with an ascending QB, weapons, cap space and draft picks.

There's definitely work to be done.  I feel confident we can get the pieces we need this year.  The main thing our team needs to aquire is mental toughness. That doesn't come easily. We didn't handle adversity well this year.  So, this coming year we can begin the learning to overcome adversity process.  The following year, will be the year we can contend because our resolve should be there.  If it's not, we won't succeed.

1 hour ago, Mongo3451 said:

There's definitely work to be done.  I feel confident we can get the pieces we need this year.  The main thing our team needs to aquire is mental toughness. That doesn't come easily. We didn't handle adversity well this year.  So, this coming year we can begin the learning to overcome adversity process.  The following year, will be the year we can contend because our resolve should be there.  If it's not, we won't succeed.

Is there anyone on the team that brings Olin Kreutz toughness and leadership?

I think on defense Brisker is that type but was injured most of the year. Now that Byard has established himself, I expect him to step up .

Just not sure on offense. Some of that needs to be Caleb but we need an assho*e on the line to hold accountable. Hopefully a new guy can take that role. 

14 minutes ago, Stinger226 said:

Is there anyone on the team that brings Olin Kreutz toughness and leadership?

I think on defense Brisker is that type but was injured most of the year. Now that Byard has established himself, I expect him to step up .

Just not sure on offense. Some of that needs to be Caleb but we need an assho*e on the line to hold accountable. Hopefully a new guy can take that role. 

💯!  We need those dogs.  Enough the the nice shit.  I want guys playing on the edge of criminality every play.

6 minutes ago, Mongo3451 said:

💯!  We need those dogs.  Enough the the nice shit.  I want guys playing on the edge of criminality every play.

yes, locker room culture is important, but that doesnt mean not swearing and being really nice.

14 hours ago, adam said:

After watching two weeks of the playoffs, for how bad the Bears played this season, they played way too many of these teams close enough that with small changes, the outcomes could've been much different.

Just like 2023, the Bears were a better team than their record. We now know a lot of this was on Flus and the coaching staff.

The Bears had 5 games decided by a FG or less, two others by 6 or less, and then the NE game where they didn't even show up. That is 8 games. If they just won half of those, that is a 9-win team. Win 75%, and it's an 11-win team. 

With the right coaching staff, a few key FAs, a solid draft, and this team will look magically transformed come next summer.

 

right. no team is invincible. our roster has some talent. if we fix the OL, and add a pass rush, and the coaching is as advertised, we should be playoff bound for sure.