For much of Monday night’s first half, the Jay Cutler and Mike Martz marriage was experiencing the growing pains that many folks expected to see in the season’s first two weeks.
Cutler threw an early interception, held the ball too long at times, and was thoroughly harassed by a Packers defense that recorded three quick sacks. The Packers moved the ball well through the air, but only led 10-0 when the Bears stopped them on a drive at the two minute warning.
One Devin Hester return and a few gorgeous Cutler throws later and the Bears cut the lead to 10-7 at halftime after a Greg Olsen nine-yard touchdown catch.
Aaron Rodgers has thrown for 172 yards on 23 attempts, although the Packers aren’t even trying to run the ball. (They have eight yards on the ground.)
The Bears defense has yet to make a big play, but Chicago has limited the damage after a great Packers opening drive. Chicago has to be thrilled to be down only three at the break after that half.
And we’re thrilled this Rogers-Cutler duel may yet live up the hype.