Bears coach Lovie Smith defended Matt Forte Monday, even though he picked up just 34 yards on 14 carries against the Eagles in Week 11.
"I know [Forte's] yardage -- the rushing total --didn't say that, but I liked the way he hit the holes." Smith admitted that Kahlil Bell, who rushed four times for 81 yards last week, could steal a few reps from Forte. "With production like that, why not?" asked Smith. Bell's 72-yard run was more of a fluke and we're expecting Forte to retain his every-down back status.
Kahlil Bell stepped in as Matt Forte's primary backup and rushed four times for 81 yards Sunday night.
Bell's first carry went for 72 yards, which was the Bears' longest running play since 1989. Bell was signed off the practice squad last week with Garrett Wolfe (kidney) sidelined. He's more of a bruiser and is not worth an add. If Forte went down, the Bears would be forced to go even more pass heavy.
Johnny Knox was held to two catches for 16 yards in Week 11.
Knox had his defender beat by at least three steps late in the fourth quarter, but QB Jay Cutler sailed a sure 70-yard touchdown pass a few feet out of his reach. Cutler struggled with the deep ball all night and most of the Bears' wideouts suffered. Hopefully the passing game can find a rhythm before Chicago's Week 12 matchup with the Vikings.
Devin Hester was limited to 18 yards on four catches in Week 11.
Hester had trouble breaking free after the catch against the Eagles' swarming defense. And with QB Jay Cutler struggling to throw an accurate over-the-top ball, it was a lost week for most of the Bears' wideouts. Hester should have an easier time getting open next week against the Vikings.
Kellen Davis caught two passes for 17 yards and a touchdown in Week 11.
Davis was able to break free late in the third quarter for a 15-yard over-the-shoulder touchdown catch. It was only his ninth catch of the season, though, and he remains a rare target in the Chicago offesne.
Greg Olsen caught six passes for 42 yards against the Eagles in Week 11.
Olsen again served as QB Jay Cutler's go-to target in the second half, and especially on the Bears' final drive. But he was overthrown in some instances and underthrown on Chicago's last offensive play, resulting in a game-ending interception. Olsen's value is reliant on Cutler's confidence, which, right now, is pretty low. The Bears face the Vikings in Week 12.
Earl Bennett caught five passes for 57 yards in Week 11.
Bennett has had only one truly productive week this season and doesn't appear destined for another one. The Bears are heading to a pass-friendly Minnesota in Week 12, but Bennett still isn't much of a fantasy option.
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