2007 Chicago Bears season
| 2007 Chicago Bears season | |
|---|---|
| Owner | The McCaskey Family |
| General manager | Jerry Angelo |
| Head coach | Lovie Smith |
| Home field | Soldier Field |
| Results | |
| Record | 7–9 |
| Division place | 4th NFC North |
| Playoff finish | Did not qualify |
The 2007 Chicago Bears season was the franchise's 88th season in the National Football League (NFL). The season officially began on September 9, 2007, against the San Diego Chargers, and concluded on December 30 against the New Orleans Saints.[1] The Bears entered the 2007 season as the National Football Conference (NFC) Champions and had hopes of returning to the Super Bowl,[2] but instead finished the season with a disappointing 7–9 record, and missing the playoffs for the first time since 2004. The season marked the most recent time that the Bears swept the Green Bay Packers.
Offseason
Roster changes
One of the biggest stories in the Bears' off-season was Tank Johnson's jail sentence. In December 2006, Johnson came under increased scrutiny after police entered his house in Gurnee, Illinois, and found several guns and weapon paraphernalia.[3] The situation was further complicated when Johnson's friend, William Posey, was murdered the following evening while defending Johnson at a nightclub. On March 15, 2007, a judge in Skokie, Illinois sentenced Johnson to 120 days in jail and fined him $2,500.[4] He was released from jail on May 13, 2007, due to good behavior.[5] Johnson also faced an additional eight-game suspension from the NFL.[6] The league ultimately suspended Johnson for half of the regular season on June 4.[7] Despite vowing to amend his ways, Johnson was pulled over for speeding in Arizona, and was later given a blood test after an officer suspected he was driving under the influence. The incident prompted the Bears to waive Johnson on June 25.[8] Johnson was replaced by Darwin Walker.
Additionally, controversy ensued between the Bears' management and
The team traded
The Bears re-signed
The team re-signed Nathan Vasher and Charles Tillman to multi-year contracts.[27][28] The team traded one of their draft picks to the Buffalo Bills for Darwin Walker, who will replace Tank Johnson.[29] The Bears traded safety Chris Harris to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for an undisclosed draft pick in 2008.[30] Dante Wesley was also traded to the New England Patriots in exchange for a seventh-round pick.[31]
Coaching changes
The Bears' coaching staff also saw significant changes during the off season. The team did not re-sign defensive coordinator
2007 NFL draft
| Round | Pick | Player | Position | College |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 31 | Greg Olsen | Tight end | Miami |
| 2 | 62 | Dan Bazuin | Defensive end | Central Michigan |
| 3 | 93 | Garrett Wolfe | Running back | Northern Illinois |
| 3 | 94 | Michael Okwo | Linebacker | Stanford |
| 4 | 130 | Josh Beekman | Guard |
Boston College |
| 5 | 167 | Kevin Payne | Strong safety |
Louisiana-Monroe
|
| 5 | 168 | Corey Graham | Cornerback | New Hampshire |
| 7 | 221 | Trumaine McBride | Cornerback | Ole Miss |
| 7 | 241 | Aaron Brant | Offensive tackle |
Iowa State
|
Going into the
Trade activity
The Bears improved their placement in the second round by trading
Actual selections
The team used their 31st overall selection to draft
Undrafted signees
Following the Draft, the Bears signed several undrafted
Training camp
Though the team started conditioning for the upcoming season as early as February, the Bears had scheduled several training camps between the
The Bears held training camp from July 27 to August 18 at Olivet Nazarene University.[60][61]
Staff
| 2007 Chicago Bears staff | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Front office
Head coaches
Offensive coaches
|
Defensive coaches
Special teams coaches
Strength and conditioning
| |||||
Roster
Preseason
The team won their first preseason game against the
The following week, the Bears faced the
The Bears trumped their third opponent, the
The team lost their preseason finale to the Cleveland Browns, 19–9. Grossman and most of the team's starters saw limited action during the night.[72] Instead, the team turned to Orton and Chris Leak to lead their offense.[72] The Browns initially struggled but used their special teams unit to score twelve points in the first half. Their second-string rookie quarterback, Brady Quinn allowed the Browns to score their first offensive points of the night.[72] The Bears quarterback, Kyle Orton, lead the game in passing but failed to engineer a touchdown drive. The Bears turned to their fourth-string quarterback, Chris Leak, to finish the game.[72] While Leak threw the Bears' lone passing touchdown of the night, much of the night's praise went to David Ball and Mike Hass, who both made difficult catches.[73] The Bears finished the preseason with a 3–1 record. However, the team's top three draft picks, Greg Olsen, Dan Bazuin, and Michael Okwo sustained injuries.[74] While Banzuin and Okwo were lost for the season, the team was optimistic that Olsen may play in the season's opener.[74]
Schedule
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result | Record | Venue | Recap |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | August 11 | at Houston Texans | W 20–19 | 1–0 | Reliant Stadium
|
Recap |
| 2 | August 20 | at Indianapolis Colts | W 27–24 | 2–0 | RCA Dome | Recap |
| 3 | August 25 | San Francisco 49ers | W 31–28 | 3–0 | Soldier Field | Recap |
| 4 | August 30 | Cleveland Browns | L 9–19 | 3–1 | Soldier Field | Recap |
Regular season
Schedule
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result | Record | Venue | Recap | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | September 9 | at San Diego Chargers | L 3–14 | 0–1 | Qualcomm Stadium
|
Recap | ||
| 2 | September 16 | Kansas City Chiefs | W 20–10 | 1–1 | Soldier Field | Recap | ||
| 3 | September 23 | Dallas Cowboys | L 10–34 | 1–2 | Soldier Field | Recap | ||
| 4 | September 30 | at Detroit Lions | L 27–37 | 1–3 | Ford Field | Recap | ||
| 5 | October 7 | at Green Bay Packers | W 27–20 | 2–3 | Lambeau Field | Recap | ||
| 6 | October 14 | Minnesota Vikings | L 31–34 | 2–4 | Soldier Field | Recap | ||
| 7 | October 21 | at Philadelphia Eagles | W 19–16 | 3–4 | Lincoln Financial Field | Recap | ||
| 8 | October 28 | Detroit Lions | L 7–16 | 3–5 | Soldier Field | Recap | ||
| 9 | Bye | |||||||
| 10 | November 11 | at Oakland Raiders | W 17–6 | 4–5 | McAfee Coliseum
|
Recap | ||
| 11 | November 18 | at Seattle Seahawks | L 23–30 | 4–6 | Qwest Field
|
Recap | ||
| 12 | November 25 | Denver Broncos | W 37–34 (OT) | 5–6 | Soldier Field | Recap | ||
| 13 | December 2 | New York Giants | L 16–21 | 5–7 | Soldier Field | Recap | ||
| 14 | December 6 | at Washington Redskins | L 16–24 | 5–8 | FedExField
|
Recap | ||
| 15 | December 17 | at Minnesota Vikings | L 13–20 | 5–9 | Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome | Recap | ||
| 16 | December 23 | Green Bay Packers | W 35–7 | 6–9 | Soldier Field | Recap | ||
| 17 | December 30 | New Orleans Saints | W 33–25 | 7–9 | Soldier Field | Recap | ||
| ||||||||
Standings
| NFC North | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W | L | T | PCT | DIV | CONF | PF | PA | STK | |
| (2) Green Bay Packers | 13 | 3 | 0 | .813 | 4–2 | 9–3 | 435 | 291 | W1 |
| Minnesota Vikings | 8 | 8 | 0 | .500 | 3–3 | 6–6 | 365 | 311 | L2 |
| Detroit Lions | 7 | 9 | 0 | .438 | 3–3 | 4–8 | 346 | 444 | L1 |
| Chicago Bears | 7 | 9 | 0 | .438 | 2–4 | 4–8 | 334 | 348 | W2 |
Regular season week-by-week results
Week 1: at San Diego Chargers
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| Chargers | 0 | 0 | 7 | 7 | 14 |
at
- Game time: 4:15 pm Peter Morelli(color commentator)
- TV announcers (Fox): Joe Buck (play-by-play) and Troy Aikman
Game summary
The Bears traveled to San Diego's
However, the Bears blew their shutout in the third quarter. After a punt return mishap, the Chargers capitalized on great field position and drove into Bears' territory. Tomlinson threw a touchdown pass to
Scoring summary
Q2 – CHI – 14:13 – Robbie Gould 27-yard FG (CHI 3–0)
Q3 – SD – 0:45 – 17-yard TD pass from LaDainian Tomlinson to Antonio Gates (Nate Kaeding kick) (SD 7–3)
Q4 – SD – 9:09 – LaDainian Tomlinson 7-yard TD run (Kaeding kick) (SD 14–3)
Week 2: vs. Kansas City Chiefs
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chiefs | 0 | 7 | 3 | 0 | 10 |
| Bears | 0 | 17 | 3 | 0 | 20 |
at Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois
- Game time: 4:15 pm CDT(color commentator)
- Game weather: 70 °F (21 °C) (clear skies)
- Game attendance: 62,095
- Referee: Mike Carey
- TV announcers (CBS): Jim Nantz (play-by-play) and Phil Simms
Game summary
After their season-opening loss to the Chargers, the Bears rebounded by winning their home opener against the
During halftime, the Bears received the Pro Team Community Award for their charity efforts.
Scoring summary
Q2 – CHI – 10:29 – 2-yard TD pass from Rex Grossman to John St. Clair (Robbie Gould kick) (CHI 7–0)
Q2 – CHI – 9:33 – Devin Hester 73-yard punt return TD (Gould kick) (CHI 14–0)
Q2 – CHI – 2:30 – Robbie Gould 47-yard FG (CHI 17–0)
Q2 – KC – 1:24 – 16-yard TD pass from Damon Huard to Dwayne Bowe (Dave Rayner kick) (CHI 17–7)
Q3 – CHI – 8:36 – Robbie Gould 38-yard FG (CHI 20–7)
Q3 – KC – 3:12 – Dave Rayner 45-yard FG (CHI 20–10)
Week 3: vs. Dallas Cowboys
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cowboys | 0 | 3 | 14 | 17 | 34 |
| Bears | 3 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 10 |
at Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois
- Game time: 8:15 pm CDT(color commentator)
- Game weather: 79 °F (26 °C) (clear)
- Game attendance: 62,099
- Referee: Ron Winter
- TV announcers (NBC): Al Michaels (play-by-play) and John Madden
Game summary
The Bears returned home to play a Sunday night match with the Dallas Cowboys. The game was close early as the Bears' Robbie Gould and the Cowboys' Nick Folk each hit field goals to make it a 3–3 tie at halftime. The Cowboys took the opening drive of the third quarter and ended it with a Tony Romo to Jason Witten touchdown pass. The Bears responded on the ensuing drive with a Cedric Benson goal line plunge. The Cowboys struck again before the end of the third quarter, Romo connecting on his second touchdown pass, this time to running back Marion Barber. Folk converted a 44-yard field goal early in the fourth quarter, and on the next play from scrimmage, Bears quarterback Rex Grossman threw an interception to Cowboys cornerback Anthony Henry, who ran it back for the score. With the lead in hand, the Cowboys proceeded to kill the clock, which they did effectively with Barber, who capped the scoring with a one-yard touchdown run. Barber ended the night with over 100 yards rushing, and Cowboys wide receiver Terrell Owens caught eight passes for 145 yards. The Cowboys improved to 3–0, while the Bears dropped to 1–2.
Scoring summary
Q1 – CHI – 3:09 – Robbie Gould 20-yard FG (CHI 3–0)
Q2 – DAL – 8:49 – Nick Folk 30-yard FG (3–3)
Q3 – DAL – 10:14 – 3-yard TD pass from Tony Romo to Jason Witten (Folk kick) (DAL 10–3)
Q3 – CHI – 7:14 – Cedric Benson 1-yard TD run (Gould kick) (10–10)
Q3 – DAL – 1:18 – 10-yard TD pass from Tony Romo to Marion Barber (Folk kick) (DAL 17–10)
Q4 – DAL – 12:10 – Nick Folk 44-yard FG (DAL 20–10)
Q4 – DAL – 11:49 – Anthony Henry 28-yard interception return TD (Folk kick) (DAL 27–10)
Q4 – DAL – 3:10 – Marion Barber 1-yard TD run (Folk kick) (DAL 34–10)
Week 4: at Detroit Lions
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears | 0 | 7 | 6 | 14 | 27 |
| Lions | 3 | 0 | 0 | 34 | 37 |
at Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan
- Game time: 1:00 pm CDT(color commentator)
- Game weather: 68 °F (20 °C) (Game was played inside domed stadium)
- Game attendance: 60,811
- Referee: Bill Carollo
- TV announcers (Fox): Dick Stockton (play-by-play) and Brian Baldinger
Game summary
Following the aftermath of the team's loss to Dallas, the Bears turned to Brian Griese to replace Rex Grossman. The change came in an attempt to protect the ball, and reduce turnovers. Nonetheless, the turnovers continued to haunt the team en route to a 37–27 loss against the Detroit Lions. The Lions took a first-quarter lead by blocking a Robbie Gould field-goal attempt, and then using the field position to score a field goal. The Bears' offense struggled to move the ball in the first quarter, and but began to pick up momentum in the second quarter. Griese threw a fifteen-yard touchdown to Muhsin Muhammad, but also threw two interceptions in two red zone visits.
Jon Kitna and the Lions' top-tier passing offense exploited the Bears' injury-depleted secondary. He threw two touchdowns in the fourth quarter, to keep the Bears four points behind the Lions. Griese threw an interception to Keith Smith, who returned it for a touchdown. However, Devin Hester responded by returning the ensuing kickoff for a touchdown. The Lions established their running game later, and allowed Kevin Jones to score a rushing touchdown, sending the Lions up by ten again. Griese led the Bears downfield on the subsequent drive. After several unusual penalties and mishaps, the Griese threw a touchdown to Desmond Clark. Now trailing by three points, Gould attempted by an onside kick, but it was recovered and returned by Casey FitzSimmons, sealing the Bears' loss. The 34 points allowed in the fourth quarter by the Bears are the most in NFL history.[78]
Griese completed thirty-four of fifty-two passes for 286 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions in his first start as a Bear. The team's running game mustered a combined total of sixty-nine yards, ousted by the Lions' ninety-five yards. Both defenses unleashed equal punishment on their opposing quarterbacks, combining for a total of twelve quarterback sacks. The Lions' victory snapped their four-game losing streak against the Bears.
Scoring summary
Q1 – DET – 10:05 – Jason Hanson 49-yard FG (DET 3–0)
Q2 – CHI – 4:16 – 15-yard TD pass from Brian Griese to Muhsin Muhammad (Robbie Gould kick) (CHI 7–3)
Q3 – CHI – 5:08 – Robbie Gould 49-yard FG (CHI 10–3)
Q3 – CHI – 0:49 – Robbie Gould 41-yard FG (CHI 13–3)
Q4 – DET – 14:56 – 4-yard TD pass from Jon Kitna to Shaun McDonald (Hanson kick) (CHI 13–10)
Q4 – DET – 13:14 – Keith Smith 64-yard interception return TD (Hanson kick) (DET 17–13)
Q4 – CHI – 12:57 – Devin Hester 97-yard kickoff return TD (Gould kick) (CHI 20–17)
Q4 – DET – 10:06 – 15-yard TD pass from Jon Kitna to Troy Walters (Hanson kick) (DET 24–20)
Q4 – DET – 3:34 – Kevin Jones 5-yard TD run (kick failed) (DET 30–20)
Q4 – CHI – 0:52 – 1-yard TD pass from Brian Griese to Desmond Clark (Gould kick) (DET 30–27)
Q4 – DET – 0:45 – Casey FitzSimmons 41-yard kickoff return TD (Hanson kick) (DET 37–27)
Week 5: at Green Bay Packers
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears | 0 | 7 | 10 | 10 | 27 |
| Packers | 7 | 10 | 3 | 0 | 20 |
at Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin
- Game time: 8:15 pm Andrea Kramer(sideline reporter)
Game summary
The Bears played the Green Bay Packers, their longtime rivals, during week five. The game was a must-win situation for the Bears, who needed a win to preserve any chance of winning the division. The Packers entered the game with a 4–0 record, but suffered their first loss of the season at the hands of a staunch Bears defense. The Packers took a quick lead as DeShawn Wynn rushed for over sixty yards and scored a touchdown on the team's opening drive. Cedric Benson responded by scoring a rushing touchdown, but the Packers broke the tie when Brett Favre threw a touchdown pass to Greg Jennings.
The Packers' offense drove into Bears territory several times during the second quarter, but Charles Tillman forced two fumbles. The two turnovers allowed the Bears to hold the Packers at bay, and keep hold their deficit to ten points. However, Brian Urlacher provided the game's biggest turnover, when he intercepted Favre at the Packers' fifteen-yard line. The turnover allowed Brian Griese to throw a touchdown to Greg Olsen. Later, Charles Woodson fumbled while returning a punt, which allowed Robbie Gould to kick a game-tying field goal. The Bears defense prevented the Packers from scoring again. With two minutes left on the game clock, the Bears offense seemingly moved the ball in hopes of setting up a Gould field goal. However, Griese threw a play-action touchdown pass to Desmond Clark, and gave the Bears a seven-point lead.
Favre tried to lead the Packers down field again, but threw an interception to rookie Brandon McGowan in the end zone. The pick sealed a Bears victory, allowing the team to progress to 2–3. Al Michaels named Tillman as the 'Horse Trailer Player of the Game' for forcing two pivotal fumbles.
Scoring summary
Q1 – GB – 11:01 – DeShawn Wynn 2-yard TD run (Mason Crosby kick) (GB 7–0)
Q2 – CHI – 7:52 – Cedric Benson 10-yard TD run (Robbie Gould kick) (7–7)
Q2 – GB – 4:55 – 41-yard TD pass from Brett Favre to Greg Jennings (Crosby kick) (GB 14–7)
Q2 – GB – 0:01 – Mason Crosby 37-yard FG (GB 17–7)
Q3 – CHI – 12:03 – Robbie Gould 44-yard FG (GB 17–10)
Q3 – GB – 9:02 – Mason Crosby 37-yard FG (GB 20–10)
Q3 – CHI – 4:19 – 19-yard TD pass from Brian Griese to Greg Olsen (Gould kick) (GB 20–17)
Q4 – CHI – 14:13 – Robbie Gould 36-yard FG (20–20)
Q4 – CHI – 2:05 – 34-yard TD pass from Brian Griese to Desmond Clark (Gould kick) (CHI 27–20)
-
The Bears defense take on Packers quarterback Brett Favre -
Chicago faces a rush by Vernand Morency -
Mason Crosby kicks a field goal, held by Jon Ryan -
Play at the goal line, Chicago at Green Bay
Week 6: vs. Minnesota Vikings
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vikings | 7 | 7 | 7 | 13 | 34 |
| Bears | 7 | 7 | 0 | 17 | 31 |
at Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois
- Game time: 1:02 pm
- TV announcers (Fox): Dick Stockton (play-by-play) and Brian Baldinger (color commentator)
Game summary
Following their victory against the Packers, the Bears returned home to play the Minnesota Vikings. The Bears' return specialist Devin Hester allowed the Bears to take a lead by returning a punt 89 yards for a touchdown. However, Tarvaris Jackson tied the game by throwing a 60-yard touchdown pass to Troy Williamson. Brian Griese threw a 39-yard touchdown to Bernard Berrian that helped the Bears regain the lead, but Minnesota running back Adrian Peterson helped the Vikings gain control of the game by scoring rushing touchdowns of 67, 73, and 35 respectively. With roughly two and a half minutes left on the clock, Griese threw a 33-yard touchdown pass to Muhsin Muhammad and later an 81-yard touchdown pass to Hester. The two touchdowns tied the game, but Ryan Longwell kicked a 55-yard field goal in the game's final seconds. With the loss, the Bears dropped to 2–4.
Scoring summary
Q1 – CHI – 1:56 – Devin Hester 89-yard punt return TD (Robbie Gould kick) (CHI 7–0)
Q1 – MIN – 0:00 – 60-yard TD pass from Tarvaris Jackson to Troy Williamson (Ryan Longwell kick) (7–7)
Q2 – CHI – 11:45 – 39-yard TD pass from Brian Griese to Bernard Berrian (Gould kick) (CHI 14–7)
Q2 – MIN – 2:19 – Adrian Peterson 67-yard TD run (Longwell kick) (14–14)
Q3 – MIN – 2:31 – Adrian Peterson 73-yard TD run (Longwell kick) (MIN 21–14)
Q4 – MIN – 11:31 – Ryan Longwell 48-yard FG (MIN 24–14)
Q4 – CHI – 8:37 – Robbie Gould 32-yard FG (MIN 24–17)
Q4 – MIN – 4:10 – Adrian Peterson 35-yard TD run (Longwell kick) (MIN 31–17)
Q4 – CHI – 2:36 – 33-yard TD pass from Brian Griese to Muhsin Muhammad (Gould kick) (MIN 31–24)
Q4 – CHI – 1:38 – 81-yard TD pass from Brian Griese to Devin Hester (Gould kick) (31–31)
Q4 – MIN – 0:00 – Ryan Longwell 55-yard FG (MIN 34–31)
Week 7: at Philadelphia Eagles
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears | 0 | 3 | 3 | 13 | 19 |
| Eagles | 3 | 6 | 0 | 7 | 16 |
at Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Game time: 4:15 pm
- TV announcers (Fox): Dick Stockton (play-by-play) and Brian Baldinger (color commentator)
Game summary
The Eagles fell to the Chicago Bears in the closing seconds of the game. The first three-quarters were essentially a battle of field goals. David Akers successfully converted all three of his first-half field goal attempts, the longest from 37 yards out. Robbie Gould was one for two, and the score was 9–3 Philadelphia at halftime. The Bears took the ball to the Eagles' one-yard line on their first drive of the third quarter, but settled for a field goal. Gould connected for two more field goals early in the fourth quarter to tie the game, then put the Bears ahead 12–9. On their ensuing possession, Donovan McNabb guided the Eagles down the field and fired a touchdown pass to tight end Matt Schobel, putting Philadelphia back on top 16–12 with less than five minutes to play. The Eagles forced a three and out, but their offense could not kill the clock. Chicago got the ball back with less than two minutes left and Brian Griese, with his headset broken, commanded his own drive, marching his team down the field, completing the winning touchdown pass to Muhsin Muhammad with nine seconds remaining. The Eagles fell short on their final opportunity, as the Bears improved to 3–4 with the win.
Scoring summary
Q1 – PHI – 1:01 – David Akers 24-yard FG (PHI 3–0)
Q2 – PHI – 4:08 – David Akers 33-yard FG (PHI 6–0)
Q2 – CHI – 1:46 – Robbie Gould 31-yard FG (PHI 6–3)
Q2 – PHI – 0:22 – David Akers 37-yard FG (PHI 9–3)
Q3 – CHI – 8:04 – Robbie Gould 22-yard FG (PHI 9–6)
Q4 – CHI – 14:52 – Robbie Gould 41-yard FG (9–9)
Q4 – CHI – 9:21 – Robbie Gould 45-yard FG (CHI 12–9)
Q4 – PHI – 4:57 – 13-yard TD pass from Donovan McNabb to Matt Schobel (Akers kick) (PHI 16–12)
Q4 – CHI – 0:09 – 15-yard TD pass from Brian Griese to Muhsin Muhammad (Gould kick) (CHI 19–16)
Week 8: vs. Detroit Lions
Game summary
Coming off a last-second road win over the Eagles, the Bears went home for Week 8, donned their alternate uniforms, and played an NFC North rematch with the Detroit Lions. After a scoreless first quarter, Chicago trailed as Lions kicker Jason Hanson got a 26-yard field goal, while RB Kevin Jones got a 4-yard TD run. Afterwards, Hanson increased Detroit's lead with a 52-yard field goal.
In the third quarter, the Bears got on the board with QB Brian Griese completing a 20-yard TD pass to rookie TE Greg Olsen for the only score of the period. The Lions sealed Chicago's doom as Hanson nailed a 20-yard field goal, while Detroit's defense held its ground and got the season-sweep.
With the loss, the Bears entered their bye week at 3–5.
Scoring summary
Q2 – DET – 14:56 – Jason Hanson 26-yard FG (DET 3–0)
Q2 – DET – 1:53 – Kevin Jones 4-yard TD run (Hanson kick) (DET 10–0)
Q2 – DET – 0:05 – Jason Hanson 52-yard FG (DET 13–0)
Q3 – CHI – 5:26 – 20-yard TD pass from Brian Griese to Greg Olsen (Robbie Gould kick) (DET 13–7)
Q4 – DET – 14:42 – Jason Hanson 20-yard FG (DET 16–7)
Week 10: at Oakland Raiders
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears | 0 | 3 | 0 | 14 | 17 |
| Raiders | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 6 |
at
- Game time: 4:15 pm
- TV announcers: (FOX) Matt Vasgersian and J.C. Pearson
Game summary
Coming off their bye week, the Bears flew to
After a scoreless third quarter, Oakland regained the lead in the fourth quarter with Janikowski nailing a 52-yard field goal. Chicago took the lead for good as Grossman completed a 59-yard TD pass to WR Bernard Berrian, along with RB Cedric Benson getting a 3-yard TD run.
With the win, not only did the Bears improve to 4–5, but it also marked their first road win against the Raiders since 1987 when playing in Los Angeles and first at Oakland since 1981. The Bears did beat them at Soldier Field in 2003, 24–21.
Scoring summary
Q1 – OAK – 9:18 – Sebastian Janikowski 37-yard FG (OAK 3–0)
Q2 – CHI – 6:51 – Robbie Gould 32-yard FG (3–3)
Q4 – OAK – 4:04 – Sebastian Janikowski 52-yard FG (OAK 6–3)
Q4 – CHI – 3:11 – 59-yard TD pass from Rex Grossman to Bernard Berrian (Gould kick) (CHI 10–6)
Q4 – CHI – 1:35 – Cedric Benson 3-yard TD run (Gould kick) (CHI 17–6)
Week 11: at Seattle Seahawks
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears | 10 | 7 | 0 | 6 | 23 |
| Seahawks | 7 | 10 | 7 | 6 | 30 |
at
- Game time: 4:15 pm FOX): Matt Vasgersian (play-by-play) and J.C. Pearson(color commentator)
Coming off their road win over the Raiders, the Bears flew to
In the first quarter, Chicago took the early lead with RB
In the third quarter, Seattle retook the lead as Hasselbeck completed a 4-yard TD pass to WR Nate Burleson for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, Chicago tried to come back as Gould kicked a 47-yard field goal. However, the Seahawks pulled away with Brown kicking a 23-yard and a 46-yard field goal. The Bears' final response was Gould nailing a 48-yard field goal.
With the loss, Chicago fell to 4–6.
For Rex Grossman's first starting appearance in eight weeks, he went 24/37 for 266 yards.
For Bernard Berrian, in his last three games against the Seahawks, he had a combined 315 receiving yards.
Week 12: vs. Denver Broncos
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | OT | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Broncos | 3 | 10 | 14 | 7 | 0 | 34 |
| Bears | 3 | 3 | 14 | 14 | 3 | 37 |
at
- Game time: 4:15 pm EDT/1:15 pm PDT(color commentator)
- Game weather: 39 °F (4 °C) (Cloudy with Flurries and Drizzles)
- Game attendance: 62,148
- Referee: Larry Nemmers
- TV announcers (CBS): Greg Gumbel (play-by-play) and Dan Dierdorf
| "We're going after it. We're not going to kick away from him. Hey, we respect him and he's the best, but we have guys on our coverage teams that are paid to make big tackles."[79] |
| ~Todd Sauerbrun's pregame quote on Devin Hester |
Hoping to rebound from their road loss to the Seahawks, the Bears went home for a Week 12 interconference duel with the Denver Broncos. In the first quarter, Chicago got the early lead as kicker Robbie Gould made a 24-yard field goal. The Broncos tied the game as kicker Jason Elam made a 23-yard field goal. In the second quarter, Denver took the lead as RB Andre Hall got a 16-yard TD run. Afterwards, the Bears responded with Gould kicking a 44-yard field goal. The Broncos ended the half with Elam kicking a 22-yard field goal.
In the third quarter, the Bears tied the game with WR/KR/PR
With the win, the Bears improved to 5–6.
Devin Hester became the fifth player since 1970 to return a kickoff and a punt for a touchdown in the same game.
Week 13: vs. New York Giants
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Giants | 0 | 7 | 0 | 14 | 21 |
| Bears | 7 | 6 | 3 | 0 | 16 |
at
- Game time: 4:15 p.m. (sideline reporter)
Coming off their overtime win over the Broncos, the Bears stayed at home for a Week 13 intraconference duel with the New York Giants. In the first quarter, Chicago struck first with QB Rex Grossman completing a 1-yard TD pass to TE Desmond Clark for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Giants got on the board with RB Derrick Ward. Afterwards, the Bears ended the half with kicker Robbie Gould getting a 35-yard and a 46-yard field goal.
In the third quarter, Chicago increased its lead with Gould nailing a 41-yard field goal for the only score of the period. However, in the fourth quarter, New York took the lead with QB Eli Manning completing a 6-yard TD pass to WR Amani Toomer, along with RB Reuben Droughns. The Bears did have one final attempt, but it ended with a thud.
With the loss, Chicago fell to 5–7.
Week 14: at Washington Redskins
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears | 0 | 0 | 10 | 6 | 16 |
| Redskins | 0 | 7 | 7 | 10 | 24 |
at
- Game time: 8:00 pm CDT(color commentator)
- Game weather: 26 °F (−3 °C) (Clear)
- Game attendance: 82,213
- Referee: Jerome Boger
- TV announcers (NFL Network): ' Bryant Gumbel (play-by-play) and Cris Collinsworth
Hoping to rebound from their home loss to the Giants (along with keeping any hope of a playoff spot alive), the Bears flew to
In the third quarter, the Bears continued to trail as Washington continued its night with FB Mike Sellers getting a 1-yard TD run. Afterwards, Chicago would get on the board with kicker Robbie Gould getting a 30-yard field goal, while QB Brian Griese completed a 17-yard TD pass to WR Bernard Berrian. In the fourth quarter, the Redskins replied with kicker Shaun Suisham getting a 23-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Bears responded with Gould kicking a 22-yard field goal. Later, Washington struck big as Collins completed a 16-yard TD pass to RB Ladell Betts. Chicago would draw closer as Gould nailed a 21-yard field goal. However, a failed onside kick sealed their doom.
With the loss, the Bears fell to 5–8.
Starting QB Rex Grossman (2 of 6 for 14 yards) left the game in the first quarter with a left knee injury.
Week 15: at Minnesota Vikings
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bears | 3 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 13 |
| Vikings | 0 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 20 |
at
- Game time: 8:30 pm CDT(sideline reporters)
- Game weather: Game Played Indoors (Domed Stadium)
- Game attendance: 63,800
- Referee: Tony Corrente
- TV announcers (ESPN): Mike Tirico (play-by-play), Ron Jaworski, Tony Kornheiser (color commentators), Michele Tafoya, & Suzy Kolber
Trying to snap a two-game skid, the Bears flew to the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome for a Week 15 Monday night NFC North rematch with the Minnesota Vikings. In the first quarter, Chicago struck first as kicker Robbie Gould got a 29-yard field goal for the only score of the period. In the second quarter, the Vikings tied the game with kicker Ryan Longwell getting a 42-yard field goal. Afterwards, the Bears would take the halftime lead as Gould kicked a 47-yard field goal and FB Jason McKie managed to get a 1-yard TD run.
In the third quarter, Minnesota started to creep closer as RB Adrian Peterson got a 1-yard TD run (with a failed PAT) for the only score of the period. In the fourth quarter, the Vikings took the lead with Peterson getting an 8-yard TD run. Chicago tried to rally, but Minnesota's defense was too much.
With their third-straight loss, not only did the Bears fall to 5–9, but they were knocked out of playoff contention.
On a positive note, LB Brian Urlacher had a good day with 4 tackles, 2 sacks, and an interception. It was also the first time since 2004 that Urlacher had a sack and an interception in the same game.
Week 16: vs. Green Bay Packers
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Packers | 0 | 7 | 0 | 0 | 7 |
| Bears | 3 | 10 | 15 | 7 | 35 |
at
- Game time: 1:00 p.m. (sideline reporter)
| "I've been playing 17 years, and that was the worst condition I've ever played in. Excuse? No excuse. It was, but they handled it better than we did. We have historically handled it well. It's kind of our ace in the hole, but today, obviously, it wasn't."[80] |
| ~Brett Favre commentating on the game's poor weather. |
The Bears went into Week 16 knowing that any chance of a playoff berth was over, but they still had the chance to end the season on a high with their rivals the Green Bay Packers traveling to Soldier Field. The game was a must-win for the Packers if they wanted to have any chance of getting the No. 1 seed and gain home-field advantage in the playoffs.
On a 16-degree afternoon in
After Green Bay previously going 12 years (929 punts) without a blocked punt, the Bears blocked Jon Ryan twice on a slippery afternoon. In the second quarter, Darrell McClover got his hand onto a Ryan punt but more damaging was Charles Tillman's charge down midway through the third quarter which allowed Corey Graham to pick up the football and run in 7 yards for a TD to put the Bears up 28–7.
Kyle Orton, Lovie Smith's third-choice QB, went 8-for-14 for 101 yards including a 3-yard touchdown pass to Desmond Clark in the third quarter. It was also a good day for LB Brian Urlacher who ran home an 85-yard interception early in the fourth quarter, the first of his career. Alex Brown, starting for the injured Mark Anderson, also got an interception which set up Clark's touchdown.
In the end, it was a fairly comfortable win for the Bears, who ran out 35–7 victors which meant that they completed the double over their arch rivals having previously beating them at Lambeau Field in Week 5 27–20. Also, these 35 points were their most against Green Bay since a 61–7 win on December 7, 1980. This game remains the most recent time the Bears have beaten the Packers by more than a one possession margin.
Week 17: vs. New Orleans Saints
| Period | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saints | 0 | 17 | 0 | 8 | 25 |
| Bears | 10 | 14 | 7 | 2 | 33 |
at Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois
- Game time: 1:00 p.m. FOX): Dick Stockton, Brian Baldinger
References
- ^ NFL.com, Chicago Bears — Team Schedule Retrieved on April 4, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears determined to complete unfinished business Archived 2007-04-14 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on April 4, 2007
- ^ NBC5.com, Tank Johnson Charged After Police Raid Home Archived 2007-05-21 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on March 17, 2007
- ^ CBS Chicago, Tank Johnson Sentenced To 120 Days In Jail Archived 2007-03-17 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on March 15, 2007
- ^ Chicagosports.com, Tank's a free man again Retrieved on May 29, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Will Tank Johnson be suspended? Archived 2007-03-20 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on March 17, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, NFL announces Tank Johnson suspension Archived 2007-06-06 at the Wayback Machine, Retrieved on June 4, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears say goodbye to troubled defensive tackle Archived 2007-06-28 at the Wayback Machine, Retrieved on June 25, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears designate Briggs as franchise player Archived 2007-02-18 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on February 17, 2007
- ^ Chicago Sun-Times, Briggs to Bears: Pay me or trade me[permanent dead link] Retrieved on March 3, 2007
- ^ Fox Sports, Bears Pro Bowler ready to sit out season Archived 2007-03-15 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on March 17, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Briggs remains in Bears' plans for 2007 season Archived 2007-03-13 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on March 17, 2007
- ^ The Washington Times, Gibbs acknowledges talks, but Briggs trade unlikely Retrieved on March 31, 2007
- ^ ESPN.com, Bears tell Redskins draft pick swap won't do Retrieved on April 3, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears still negotiating with Redskins Archived 2007-04-07 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on April 4, 2007
- ^ Gano, Rick, Briggs agrees to 1-year deal with Bears Archived 2007-10-12 at the Wayback Machine (July 25, 2007), Yahoo! Sports, Retrieved on July 25, 2007.
- ^ a b ESPN, Sources: Bears to swap Jones for Jets draft pick Retrieved on March 3, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears continuing their march to a championship Archived 2007-03-11 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on March 11, 2007
- ^ Profootballweekly.com, Bucs net June; No match for Fowler; Titans sign WR Gage[permanent dead link] Retrieved on March 17, 2007
- ^ Upi.com, Redskins trade safety Archuleta to Chicago Archived 2007-03-24 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on March 20, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Will Hester play on offense in 2007? Archived 2007-02-21 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on February 18, 2007
- ^ ESPN, Adams will sign a four-year contract with Bears Retrieved on March 25, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Adams prepared to tackle new challenge with Bears Archived 2007-04-09 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on April 8, 2007
- ^ Yahoo! Sports, Bears agree to terms with G Brown, DT Adams Retrieved on March 25, 2007
- ^ Yahoo! Sports, Angelo: Bears building, not dismantling, winner Archived 2007-03-17 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on March 25, 2007
- ^ Yahoo! Sports, Notes and Transactions Retrieved on April 8, 2007
- ^ Associated Press, Bears sign Vasher to five-year deal Archived 2008-12-04 at the Wayback Machine (June 25, 2007), Yahoo! Sports, Retrieved on July 25, 2007.
- ^ Mayer, Larry, Tillman agrees to six-year contract extension Archived 2012-02-08 at the Wayback Machine (July 24, 2007), chicagobears.com, Retrieved on July 24, 2007.
- ^ Seligman, Andrew, Bears, Walker agree on 5-year contract[permanent dead link] (July 31, 2007), Yahoo! Sports, Retrieved on August 1, 2007.
- ^ Mayer, Larry, Depth at safety made Harris expendable Archived 2007-09-29 at the Wayback Machine (August 2, 2007), chicagobears.com, Retrieved on August 2, 2007.
- ^ McClure, Vaughn, For safety Brown, it's all about staying in one piece Archived 2007-08-12 at the Wayback Machine (August 7, 2007), Chicago Tribune, Retrieved on August 8, 2007.
- ^ Fox Sports, Bears won't renew Rivera's contract Archived February 28, 2007, at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on February 19, 2007
- ^ ESPN, Chicago doesn't plan to retain D-coordinator Rivera Retrieved on February 19, 2007
- ^ Yahoo! Sports, Bears named Babich defensive coordinator Archived 2007-02-22 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on February 19, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Wilson leaves Bears for same job with Cowboys Archived 2007-02-25 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on February 19, 2007
- ^ ESPN, Lovie Smith scores $22 million extension with Chicago Retrieved on March 1, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Smith, Angelo sign contract extensions Archived 2007-03-03 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on February 28, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears add Hamilton, London to coaching staff Archived 2007-03-10 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on March 11, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears sticking with best player available approach Archived 2007-03-02 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on February 28, 2007.
- ^ NFL.com, 2007 NFL Draft order Archived 2007-03-21 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on February 17, 2007
- ^ Yahoo! Sports, Bears acquire S Archuleta from Redskins Archived 2007-03-23 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on March 31, 2007.
- ^ ESPN.com, Browns trade draft pick for Bears lineman Friedman Retrieved on April 29, 2007
- ^ Yahoo! Sports, Bears select Miami TE Olsen with 31st pick Retrieved on April 28, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears trade second-round pick to Chargers Archived 2007-05-01 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on April 28, 2007
- ^ a b Chicagobears.com, Bears choose Wolfe, Okwo in Round 3 Archived 2007-05-01 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on April 28, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Defensive end Bazuin a value pick in second round Archived 2007-05-02 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on April 28, 2007
- ^ Fox23news.com, Beekman Selected by Bears in 4th Round Retrieved on April 29, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears boost secondary with safety, cornerback Archived 2007-05-02 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on April 29, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears draft corner, tackle in seventh round Archived 2007-05-02 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on April 29, 2007
- ^ Palm Beach Post, Chris Leak to Chicago Bears Retrieved on April 29, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears sign Leak, six other undrafted rookies Archived 2007-05-02 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on May 1, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears sign six free agents, release Currie Archived 2007-05-09 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on May 7, 2007
- ^ Mayer, Larry Bazuin agrees to four-year contract Archived 2007-09-26 at the Wayback Machine (July 25, 2007), chicagobears.com, Retrieved on July 25, 2007.
- ^ WGN-TV, MLB Baseball: "St. Louis Cardinals at Chicago Cubs, April 22, 2007, 2007 Chicago Cubs season.
- ^ WFLD Fox Chicago, Fox News at Nine, May 4, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears' title quest begins with full-squad minicamp Archived 2007-05-20 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on May 18, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Now healthy, Dvoracek looks to make an impact Archived 2007-05-17 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on May 29, 2007
- ^ Yahoo! Sports, NFC team reports: Camp work intensifies[permanent dead link], Retrieved on May 29, 2007
- ^ ChicagoBears.com, Bears moving dynamic Hester to offense Archived 2007-06-05 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on May 14, 2007
- ^ Chicagobears.com, Bears announce 2007 training camp schedule Archived 2007-06-18 at the Wayback Machine, Retrieved on June 15, 2007.
- ^ Bearstrainingcamp.info, Bears Training Camp 2007 at Olivet Nazarene University Archived 2007-04-10 at the Wayback Machine Retrieved on April 14, 2007.
- ^ a b c d e NFL.com, NFL Game Center: Box Score – Chicago Bears at Houston Texans – 2007 Archived 2008-01-04 at the Wayback Machine (August 11, 2007), Retrieved on August 21, 2007.
- ^ Mayer, Larry, Bears quarterbacks shine in preseason victory Archived 2007-09-26 at the Wayback Machine (August 11, 2007), chicagobears.com. Retrieved on August 21, 2007.
- ^ Mayer, Larry, Toub: All special teams mistakes are correctable Archived 2007-09-26 at the Wayback Machine (August 13, 2007), chicagobears.com. Retrieved on August 21, 2007.
- ^ Yahoo! Sports Super Bowl rematch highlights NFL exhibition schedule[permanent dead link] Retrieved on April 14, 2007
- ^ Mayer, Larry, Revenge not part of equation in Super Bowl rematch Archived 2007-08-28 at the Wayback Machine (August 20, 2007), chicagobears.com, Retrieved on August 21, 2007.
- ^ a b c d e f NFL.com, NFL Game Center: Post Game – Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts – 2007 (August 20, 2007). Retrieved on August 21, 2007.
- ^ Mayer, Larry, Bears overcome miscues in preseason win over Colts Archived 2007-08-28 at the Wayback Machine (August 20, 2007), chicagobears.com, Retrieved on August 21, 2007.
- ^ a b c d e Seligman, Andrew, Chicago 31, San Francisco 28 (August 26, 2007), Yahoo! Sports, Retrieved on September 9, 2007.
- ^ Mayer, Larry, Hester's whole season flashed before his eyes Archived 2007-09-05 at the Wayback Machine (August 27, 2007), chicagobears.com, Retrieved on September 9, 2007.
- ^ Calculated by QB Rating Calculator, Retrieved on September 9, 2007.
- ^ a b c d Seligman, Andrew, Cleveland 19, Chicago 9 (August 31, 2007), Yahoo! Sports, Retrieved on September 9, 2007.
- ^ Mayer, Larry, Hass' spot on Bears' 53-man roster well deserved Archived 2007-09-06 at the Wayback Machine (September 4, 2007), chicagobears.com, Retrieved on September 9, 2007.
- ^ a b Mayer, Larry, Bears sign FB Polite, place Okwo on injured reserve Archived 2007-09-11 at the Wayback Machine (September 4, 2007), chicagobears.com, Retrieved on September 9, 2007.
- ^ Mayer, Larry (September 10, 2007). "Bears head back to the drawing board after loss". chicagobears.com. Archived from the original on September 12, 2007.
- ^ Schefter, Adam (September 10, 2007). "Bears safety, defensive tackle out for season". NFL.com. Retrieved May 10, 2018.
- ^ Mayer, Larry, Bears receive prestigious community award Archived 2008-01-04 at the Wayback Machine (September 17, 2007), chicagobears.com, Retrieved on September 24, 2007.
- ^ Mayer, Larry (November 14, 2013). "Have Bears had two 1,000-yard receivers?". Chicago Bears. Archived from the original on November 15, 2013. Retrieved November 14, 2013.
- ^ The Denver Post, Broncos risk being hurt by Hester Retrieved on November 25, 2007.
- ^ Chicago Tribune, Favre struggles as Packers see hopes of top seed wiped out with 35–7 loss to Bears Retrieved on July, 2014.
External links
| |
| Franchise | |
| Records | |
| Stadiums | |
| Culture |
|
| Lore | |
| Rivalries | |
| Minor league affiliates |
|
| Retired numbers | |
| Key personnel |
|
| Division championships (21) | |
| Conference championships (4) | |
| League championships (9) | |
| Media |
|
| Current league affiliations |
|
