Bears Lose Preseason Opener

By Benjy Lipsman in News on Aug 8, 2008 5:19PM

The Bears opened their preseason with a 24-20 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs at Soldier Field on Thursday. And while Bears fans were looking for some answers about their team and its prospects, particularly on offense, instead more questions were raised than answered.

Heading into the game, the biggest question was at quarterback. Would either Kyle Orton or Rex Grossman show enough to prove they could ably lead the team's offense? Last night, neither really did. However, we were actually quite impressed with free-agent rookie Caleb Hanie's play in the second half. But it was in the second half, against KC's third team defense. Nonetheless, should he enter the mix for the starting job? Chicagoist votes yes.

Matt Forte made his NFL debut, running the ball OK (25 yards on seven carries) and catching a few passes. With newly signed Kevin Jones on the inactive list, Garrett Wolfe got extended playing time and looked impressive—especially his 42 yard run. But again, against what caliber of defense?

The receivers had a rough game, particularly the rookies. Two nearly perfect passes for big gains were dropped during the game's final drive. Hanie's numbers would have been that much more impressive and the Bears might have won the game.

Perhaps surprising the team created any offense at all, given the ragtag shape of their offensive line. First round draft pick Chris Williams had surgery Thursday on a herniated disc in his back that'll keep him out for an extended period of time, and projected left guard Terrence Metcalf underwent arthroscopic knee surgery. When the "O" line already depleted, the Bears are in talks with Fred Miller about returning to Chicago. With a foundation in this kind of shape, it's shaping up to be a painful season for the Bears and their fans.

AP Photo/Charles Rex Arbogast