The Chicago Bears failed to convert on a single third-down en-route to a miserable 23-20 loss to the Seattle Seahawks at Soldier Field on Sunday.
In Jay Cutler's first game back from the concussion that knocked him out of the game against the Giants, he looked rusty and discombobulated. He was sacked six times, including one time for a safety. He went 17-for-39, gaining 290 yards.
Surprisingly, he did not throw an interception, because he threw into double and triple-coverage several times.
Though he was able to connect with his receivers on big plays, the offense had no idea what to do on the next play. The Bears chose not to run the ball often, despite Forte's strong start and excellent game last week. Sacks, bad play-calling and poor protection all played a part in the Bears not being able to create offense.
Devin Hester made it interesting in the final minutes with an 89-yard punt return for a touchdown, but it was not enough to salvage a weak performance.
Things started with promise. Chicago struck early, scoring on the very first drive. Devin Hester drew a 58-yard pass interference penalty, setting up the Bears on the Seattle 22-yard line. Matt Forte capitalized with a touchdown, but that's where the offense ended.
The defense, usually the bright side of any Bears game, looked slightly confused on the field.
Veteran Lance Briggs did not play because of an ankle injury, and though Brian Iwuh filled in well with eight tackles, he didn't have the big play ability of Briggs.
Chicago Bears
The Bears were not ready for the Seahawks running game, and Marshawn Lynch and Justin Forsett took advantage, combining for two touchdowns. Quarterback Matt Hasselbeck was 25-for-40 for 242 yards and one touchdown. The Bears were unable to sack him or pick off any of his passes.
With the Redskins on the horizon, the Bears need to settle down and focus on next week. With as befuddled as they looked on the field this week, they were lucky to get away with a 23-20 loss.
