Pompei: Observations From Bears-Chiefs
By Dan Pompei--
CHICAGO (CBS) -- It's difficult to comprehend that these Bears beat these Chiefs, 18-17, last October. The Chiefs appear to be better than the Bears on every level, as shown in Saturday's convincing preseason win.
Our perception of the Bears at this point is probably skewed because of the number of players who couldn't play and the fact that this is preseason competition. But there isn't a lot to be excited about after Saturday.
Here are my observations:
1. The Bears' offensive line was manhandled. Part of that was right guard Kyle Long was out; part of that was probably uncertainty over assignments and part of that may be the line isn't as physical as it needs to be.
2. I didn't get the release of Matt Slauson when it happened. I really don't get it now.
3. After final cutdowns last year, the Bears signed guard Patrick Omameh and he started nine games. A similar move may be required this year.
4. The defensive front, on the other hand, is playing with more strength at the point than the defensive front a year ago. Credit the addition of Akiem Hicks, the maturation of Eddie Goldman and the continued recovery of Lamarr Houston.
5. Jonathan Bullard is going to be good in Vic Fangio's defense. I wonder if he wouldn't have been even better in Lovie Smith's defense.
6. Bears defensive backs seem to be making a concerted effort to get the ball out. This apparently has been a coaching point of emphasis.
7. You have to like the fire that safety Harold Jones-Quartey plays with. He's probably not always going to be where he's supposed to be, but that's a guy who helps set a tone.
8. Linebacker John Timu has the same kind of playing style. There should be a place for him on the Bears' roster.
9. Too bad about quarterback Connor Shaw. I'm not sure if he can be consistent and productive over time, but it's pretty obvious he can spark an offense.
10. The Bears have one receiver who looks like he'll be a threat to opposing defenses. And what happens if Alshon Jeffery pulls something?
11. It's starting to look like Marc Mariani is going to play a significant role on the Bears between returns and offense. The Bears' depth at the position isn't good.
12. Kevin White is going to be a really good wide receiver, I believe. But it's going to take some time. That shouldn't surprise anyone.
13. Defensive back Deiondre' Hall has potential, but he's awfully green. It doesn't' look like the Bears will have the luxury of developing him slowly.
14. Anyone with suggestions about how to cover DeAndre Hopkins on opening day should forward them to Vic Fangio, Halas Hall, 1920 Football Drive, Lake Forest, IL.
Dan Pompei has been covering the NFL since 1985 and is a regular contributor to 670 The Score and a host on 670's Bears pregame show. He writes for Bleacher Report and theatheltic.com. You can follow him on Twitter @Dan Pompei.
