Today Could Be Devin Hester's Day for a TD Return

Every time Devin Hester lines up in the backfield to return a punt or kick, there is a certain excitement in the air. Fans, opponents and media are all ready and waiting for Hester to repeat his performances from last season and return a kick for a touchdown. Who can blame us? Hester's returns were bright spots in an otherwise dismal season. Of course we want to see it again, but so far, that hasn't happened.

Today could be the day. In today's noon game against the Minnesota Vikings, Hester has a good shot of breaking through for a big run. The Vikings special teams unit is a bit on the porous side, Just two weeks ago, Reggie Bush returned two punts for six when the Vikings' win over the Saints. Though the Vikings have been working on punts that keep the ball out of Hester's hands, those tactics don't always work.

On his part, Hester claims that he is trying to remain patient and not look for the TD when it isn't there. That is not what I have witnessed so far this season. When not calling a fair catch, Hester often ends up backing up or running laterally. Hester is no longer a secret, and opponents know what he is capable of. He has a target on his head.

If Hester does finally get his return today, it could loosen him up for the rest of the game and season. The expectation for a touchdown return has been weighing on his performance, and removing that albatross from his neck, plus the six points, could only benefit the Bears.

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