Watch: Bears' Marcus Cooper Commits Boneheaded Mistake, Stripped A Yard Shy Of Score
By Chris Emma--
CHICAGO (CBS) -- The Bears were on their way to a game-changing play and a two-touchdown halftime lead over the Steelers on Sunday but then committed an unfathomable mistake a yard shy of the goal line.
Sherrick McManis blocked a Steelers field goal in the final seconds of the first half, and veteran cornerback Marcus Cooper scooped the ball for the recovery and return. With open field ahead, Cooper was destined for the end zone but inexplicably decided to slowly stride in for the score just ahead of the goal line. Steelers tight end Vance McDonald stripped him of the football, which was then illegally batted out of the end zone by the Steelers.
You can watch it here, courtesy of Josh Frydman:
After a lengthy review, it was determined that the Bears would receive one untimed down from the half-yard line. They lined up with the offense in goal-line formation, but tackle Charles Leno committed a false start. They settled for a Connor Barth field goal and a 17-7 lead at halftime.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.
