My Matt Forte Blog

This game was televised on National TV, Sunday Night Football, for a reason; it was expected to be a very close hard fought battle. It did not disappoint. This game started as a defensive battle with zero points scored in the first quarter. The Falcons could not get anything going offensively. The Bears took their first drive of the game down the field and looked poised for a touchdown when Cutler threw an interception at the 12 yard line.

The Bears scored a touchdown to start the second quarter when Cutler threw a 21 yard touchdown pass to Johnny Knox, the rookie out of Abilene Christian. He has emerged as a solid deep ball threat for the Bears. He is not worth owning as a fantasy player though. A couple possessions later Cutler through another pick at around midfield. This set the Falcons up for their first scoring drive. On the third play of the drive Matt Ryan connected with R. White for a 40 yard touchdown pass. These two have been a great connection this year. Matt Ryan is having anything but a sophomore slump. Both of these guys are every week starters. The Falcons got the ball back with 5 minutes left in the half and drove down the field for another score. This one was a Ryan 10 yard pass to the off season acquisition, Tony Gonzalez. He has really helped Ryan come into his own. Tony G is getting holder but Atlanta has really seemed to give him some extra life. He is a must start tight end every week as well. Ryan has really helped his production.

The Bears had a great chance for a score near the end of the third quarter but failed because of back to back fumbles by Matt Forte. Matt Forte has not a good season thus far. Most people will say it is due to the lack of offensive line and I would have to agree. He was a top 5 draft pick in most leagues but if owners have a better option I would not look pass benching him. The Bears were able to score on a drive that came off of a Matt Ryan pick. Cutler threw a 2 yard touchdown to Greg Olsen, who hasn't been up to par this year as well. On the next drive the Michael Turner had a 5 yard touchdown run, which would turn out to be the game winner. The Bears had a shot at the end of regulation to tie the game but Cutler could not convert a 4th and 6 in the red zone.

This was a well played game by both teams except for the stupid penalties that hurt the Bears on their last drive. The Falcons are clearly contenders. If the Bears want to be considered for the playoffs they need to tighten up ship and get the running game going as well.

Matt Messel