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 on ChicagoBears.com.
How frequently have 10-6 teams made the playoffs in the NFL? I don't imagine that many teams that have reached double digits in wins haven't qualified for the postseason.
John L.
Little Rock, Arkansas
Since the NFL realigned into eight four-team divisions in 2002, 30 of 35 teams (85.7 percent) that have finished with 10-6 records have made the playoffs. Among non-division winners, 14 of 19 teams (73.7 percent) that went 10-6 qualified for the postseason. In 2008, the Patriots finished with an 11-5 record and did not make the playoffs. Â
I thought that Lance Briggs deserved to go to the Pro Bowl. When was the last time Briggs or Brian Urlacher was not voted to the Pro Bowl?
Kevin B.
Deerfield, Illinois
This is just the second time in the last 13 years that at least one of the Bears' two star linebackers was not voted to the Pro Bowl. The only other time it occurred during that span was 2004. Brian Urlacher was selected in each of his first four seasons from 2000-03, while Lance Briggs was voted to seven straight Pro Bowls from 2005-11.
How many 100-yard rushing games has Matt Forte had against the Lions?
Phil N.
Gary, Indiana
Matt Forte has rushed for at least 100 yards in four of nine career games against the Lions with totals of 126, 121, 101 and 116. He nearly made it a fifth 100-yard game earlier this season when he gained 96 yards on 22 carries in a 13-7 win at Soldier Field. In those nine games versus Detroit, Forte has rushed for 774 yards and four touchdowns on 157 carries and also caught 27 passes for 301 yards and three touchdowns, including a career-long 89-yarder.
