August 2, 2007
How much have Bears changed in one year?
Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of e-mail questions from fans every day on ChicagoBears.com.
Larry:
How would you compare this year’s Bears team to last year’s squad at this point in training camp?
Christopher P.
Morton, Illinois
Christopher: The biggest difference is the explosiveness of the Bears offense. With the addition of Devin Hester and first-round draft pick Greg Olsen, the Bears have the ability to put points on the board at any time. Experience is also a huge factor. A year ago, Rex Grossman had only played two games in Ron Turner’s system and Bernard Berrian was trying to win a starting job. Grossman proceeded to start all 16 games and Berrian enjoyed a breakout season. With Lance Briggs back in camp, the Bears defense is relatively the same, although Darwin Walker is definitely an upgrade over Tank Johnson at defensive tackle. In my opinion, this Bears squad is markedly better than the one that was in Bourbonnais a year ago.
Larry: I thought Greg Olsen was the NFL’s fastest tight end, but I read an article today indicating that he was the second fastest.
Who would be No. 1 and what’s the difference between them?
John B.
Canyon Country, California
John: The only NFL tight end who is faster than Greg Olsen is probably Vernon Davis of the San Francisco 49ers. In 2006, Davis was timed at 4.38 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine, the fastest ever by a tight end. Olsen was timed at 4.51, the fastest among tight ends at this year’s combine.
Larry: I’m really excited about the upcoming season and have high expectations for this team.
Which teams do you see as the biggest threats the Bears might face in the NFC this year?
Mateen Z.
Hoffman Estates, Illinois
Mateen: It’s hard to say which NFC teams will emerge to challenge the Bears for a return trip to the Super Bowl. With Drew Brees and Reggie Bush, it seems like the New Orleans Saints have the best chance. I think the Philadelphia Eagles also could be good this season but only if Donovan McNabb rebounds from his injury. My surprise team this year is the San Francisco 49ers. I’m predicting that they will win the NFC West and possibly do some damage in the playoffs.
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How much have Bears changed in one year? - Chicago Bears
How much have Bears changed in one year? Q&A
How much have Bears changed in one year? Q&A
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