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Chalk Talk

Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of email questions from fans every day on ChicagoBears.com.

I’m curious about how well the Bears have done on their opening drives both offensively and defensively. It seems like they are almost always spotting the other team the lead before they even get a first down.

Steve
Wisconsin

The Bears have fallen behind in six of 10 games before they’ve picked up a first down. They’ve been outscored 69-20 in the first quarter and have scored first only twice (against the Falcons and Browns). On opening drives this season, the Bears offense has six punts, two touchdowns, one interception and one missed field goal. The defense has yielded five TDs with three punts and two missed field goals. After giving up a TD on the opponent’s opening possession in five of seven games, the Bears have forced the 49ers to punt and the Eagles to settle for a field goal in their last two contests.

I’ve seen Jay Cutler throw interceptions before, but I’ve never seen him as inaccurate for an entire game like he was against the Eagles. How do you explain that?

Martin R.
Rockford, Illinois

I wish I could. I’ve heard every possible explanation, and most really don’t make any sense to me. I don’t think Jay Cutler was necessarily afraid to throw interceptions after being picked off five times in the previous game. But I do think he was pressing to make plays, almost like a baseball pitcher who’s aiming the ball after walking a few batters instead of simply just rearing back and firing it over the plate.

Have the Bears and Vikings ever met in the playoffs?

Ralph G.
Des Moines, Iowa

Yes, the Bears upset the Vikings 35-18 in their only playoff meeting on Jan. 1, 1995 at the Metrodome. The Bears were the third and final wildcard that season, while the Vikings were the NFC Central champions. Steve Walsh passed for 221 yards and 2 touchdowns, Raymont Harris rushed for 67 yards including a 29-yard TD, and Kevin Miniefield returned a fumble 48 yards for a score.

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