2011 Chicago Bears season

American football league team season May 2019 March 2026 Chicago Bears 2011 8–8 3rd NFC North Lovie Smith Jerry Angelo The McCaskey Family Soldier Field Did not qualify RB Matt ForteOLB Lance BriggsMLB Brian UrlacherCB Charles TillmanCB Corey Graham PR/KR Devin Hester (2nd team) Ch bears uniforms.png Bears seasons The 2011 season was the Chicago Bears' 92nd in the National Football League (NFL) and their eighth under head coach Lovie Smith. The defending NFC North champion Bears attempted a return to the playoffs after falling in the NFC Championship Game to their arch-rival Green Bay Packers in 2010. The Bears were scheduled to appear in the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game but due to the lockout, the game was cancelled. The Bears traveled to Wembley Stadium in London to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the NFL International Series and played the Green Bay Packers on Christmas Day evening in the only scheduled game on that day.NFL to return to Wembley in October 2011 http://www.thefa.com/TheFA/Wembley/NewsandFeatures/2011/Tampa-Bay-Chicago-Bears-Confirmation TheFA.com July 26, 2011 Despite starting the season with a 7–3 record, starting quarterback Jay Cutler broke the thumb on his throwing hand and was forced to undergo season-ending surgery. After losing Cutler for the rest of the year, the Bears went 1–5, finishing the season with an 8–8 record and not qualifying for the playoffs. The season would begin somewhat of a lengthy playoff drought for the organization, as they would not return to the playoffs again until 2018. 3 Offseason 2011 NFL lockout After the 2010 season ended, the NFL entered its longest work stoppage in history. The lockout began after a failure to reach an agreement between the owners and the union in early March. Both sides agreed to extend the deadline another week.http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/jim_trotter/03/04/NFL.labor/index.html NFL, NFLPA agree to seven-day extension in labor negotiations Jim Trotter SI.com March 4, 2011 March 12, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110324234604/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/writers/jim_trotter/03/04/NFL.labor/index.html March 24, 2011 dead However, the talks broke down and the union officially decertified,http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/football/nfl/03/11/union-labor/index.html https://archive.today/20120903174659/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2011/football/nfl/03/11/union-labor/index.html dead September 3, 2012 NFLPA files to decertify as a union Jim Trotter SI.com March 11, 2011 March 12, 2011 after which a group of 10 players filed an antitrust lawsuit against the league. After months of failed negotiations, the two sides finally reached an agreement in late July. The owners announced on July 21 that it had approved a new collective bargaining agreement by a 31–0–1 margin (the Oakland Raiders abstained). On July 25, the players association's executive board voted to approve the new collective agreement and the players voted to ratify it on August 4.Schefter Adam Adam Schefter Kuharsky Paul 2011-08-04 CBA ratified, includes HGH testing, source says https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6834391/nfl-players-ratify-collective-bargaining-agreement-which-includes-hgh-testing-sources-say 2025-08-09 ESPN.com en Associated Press The delayed start to the season brought free agency and the opening of training camps to coincide. This gave clubs a short period of time to get a full roster signed before camp opened.Seligman Andrew NFL's Free-Agent Frenzy: Wild Times in NFL https://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory?id=14158459 August 17, 2011 ABC News July 26, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110727011737/http://abcnews.go.com/Sports/wireStory?id=14158459 July 27, 2011 live Roster changes Coaching changes On January 31, defensive line coach Eric Washington left the team to take the same position with the Carolina Panthers.http://www.suntimes.com/sports/3592562-419/defensive-coach-bears-assistant-panthers.html Bears assistant joins Panthers Chicago Sun-Times January 31, 2011 July 28, 2011 On February 3, the Bears hired Mike Phair as their new defensive line coach.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7552 Bears hired Phair as new D-line coach Chicago Bears February 3, 2011 July 28, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110306092805/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7552 March 6, 2011 dead Acquisitions On July 29, the Bears signed former Dallas Cowboys WR Roy Williams, former Pittsburgh Steelers TE Matt Spaeth for a three-year deal, former Jacksonville Jaguars P Adam Podlesh for a five-year deal, and former New York Jets DE Vernon Gholston.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8001 Bears agree to terms with 11 free agents Chicago Bears July 29, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20120526100222/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?STORY_ID=8001 May 26, 2012 dead On July 29, the Bears agreed to three-year contracts with DE Jake Laptad, TE Draylen Ross, RB Dan Dierking and T Mike Lamphear.http://www.chicagobears.com/team/transactions.asp Transactions Chicago Bears August 5, 2011 On July 30, the Bears signed former Dallas Cowboys RB Marion Barber and former Houston Texans DT Amobi Okoye.http://www.chicagobears.com/DailyBlogs.asp?DAILY_BLOG_DATE=07/30/11 https://archive.today/20120722064415/http://www.chicagobears.com/DailyBlogs.asp?DAILY_BLOG_DATE=07/30/11 dead July 22, 2012 Bears add RB Marion Barber Chicago Bears July 30, 2011 On July 31, the Bears signed former Seattle Seahawks C Chris Spencer.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8008 https://archive.today/20120723191638/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8008 dead July 23, 2012 Bears land Spencer; Kreutz era is over Chicago Bears July 31, 2011 On August 2, the Bears resigned TE Desmond Clark on a 1-year deal. On September 4, the Bears signed S Brandon Meriweather.https://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/6825348/source-chicago-bears-agree-deal-desmond-clark?campaign=rss&source=NFLHeadlines Bears, Desmond Clark agree August 2, 2011 ESPN Chicago August 16, 2011 Departures On July 28, the Bears released TE Brandon Manumaleuna after a failed physical. On July 30, the Bears waived G Herman Johnson On August 1, the Bears waived P Richmond McGee and DT Sean Murnane. On August 2, the Bears waived S K.J. Gerard. On August 3, the Bears waived TE Draylen Ross. On August 8, the Bears waived RB Dan Dierking and QB Matt Gutierrez. On October 27, the Bears released S Chris Harris. On December 16, the Bears released WR Sam Hurd.https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/redskins/bears-waive-qb-matt-gutierrez-rb-dan-dierking/2011/08/08/gIQADZrV3I_story.html Bears waive QB Matt Guiterrez, RB Dan Dierking Washington Post August 8, 2011 August 9, 2011 June 2021 medicmedic Free agents thumb|220 px|Bears did not come to terms with 13-year-veteran Olin Kreutz. Kreutz would go on and sign a 2-year deal with the New Orleans Saints.https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/6836722/ex-chicago-bears-center-olin-kreutz-new-orleans-saints-agree Olin Kreutz, Saints agree on deal ESPN Chicago August 6, 2011 August 17, 2011 thumb|220px|Brad Maynard left the Bears and signed with the Houston Texans.http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/08/01/texans-sign-brad-maynard/ Texans sign Brad Maynard Pro Football Talk August 1, 2011 August 17, 2011 Position Player Free agencytag Date signed 2011 team DT Anthony Adams UFA July 29 Chicago Bears WR Devin Aromashodu UFA July 26https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ycn-8857891 Vikings Land Former Bears WR Aromashodu Yahoo! Sports July 26, 2011 August 17, 2011 October 26, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20121026073828/http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slug=ycn-8857891 dead Minnesota Vikings RB Kahlil Bell ERFA July 29 Chicago Bears SS Josh Bullocks UFA August 15http://www.footballnewsnow.com/2011/oakland-raiders-sign-veteran-safeties-to-boost-injury-depleted-roster/ Oakland Raiders Sign Veteran Safeties to Boost Injury Depleted Roster Football News Now August 15, 2011 August 17, 2011 usurped https://web.archive.org/web/20120326131720/http://www.footballnewsnow.com/2011/oakland-raiders-sign-veteran-safeties-to-boost-injury-depleted-roster/ March 26, 2012 Oakland Raiders TE Desmond Clark UFA August 2 Chicago Bears QB Todd Collins UFA — — WR Rashied Davis UFA July 27http://www.myfoxchicago.com/dpp/sports/nfl/bears/apx-nfl-football-chicago-bears-rashied-davis-detroit-lions Bears WR Rashied Davis Signs With Lions Fox Chicago July 27, 2011 August 17, 2011 Detroit Lions CB Corey Graham UFA July 30 Chicago Bears QB Caleb Hanie RFA July 29 Chicago Bears OLB Brian Iwuh UFA July 31 Chicago Bears C Olin Kreutz UFA August 5 New Orleans Saints SS Danieal Manning UFA July 27https://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/6814863/danieal-manning-houston-texans-agree-4-year-20-million-deal-agent-says Agent: Danieal Manning, Texans agree ESPN Chicago July 27, 2011 August 17, 2011 Houston TexansTE/FBBrandon ManumaleunaUFA - - P Brad Maynard UFA August 1 Houston Texans OLB Nick Roach UFA July 29 Chicago Bears OLB Pisa Tinoisamoa UFA — — G/C Edwin Williams ERFA July 29 Chicago Bears OLB Rod Wilson UFA — — RB Garrett Wolfe UFA — —RFA: Restricted free agent, UFA: Unrestricted free agent, ERFA: Exclusive rights free agent Trades On July 28, the Bears traded TE Greg Olsen to the Carolina Panthers for a 2012 third-round draft pick.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7995 https://archive.today/20120730164344/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7995 dead July 30, 2012 Bears deal Olsen to Panthers for pick Chicago Bears July 28, 2011 Draft thumb| 180px| Gabe Carimi 2011 NFL draft 2011 Chicago Bears 1 29 Gabe Carimi OT Wisconsin yes 2 53 Stephen Paea DT Oregon State yes 3 93 Chris Conte FS California yes 5 160 Nathan Enderle QB Idaho 6 195 J.T. Thomas LB West Virginia yes Draft Notes: Washington traded its second- (#53) round pick this selection to Chicago for Chicago's second- (#62) and fourth-round (#127) selections.Pompei Dan Paea fits the bill for Bears: Oregon State defensive tackle the versatile player Angelo was looking for https://www.chicagotribune.com/2011/04/29/paea-fits-the-bill-for-bears/ May 2, 2011 Chicago Tribune April 29, 2011 The Bears forfeited their seventh-round selection, due to the use of a seventh-round selection in the 2010 Supplemental draft. Undrafted free agents Following the end of the lockout, the Bears announced coming to terms with 26 undrafted free agents.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7988 Bears agree to terms with 26 rookies Chicago Bears July 26, 2011 March 29, 2020 https://web.archive.org/web/20200329180729/https://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?STORY_ID=7988 dead Kris Adams, WR, (UTEP) Kyle Adams, TE, (Purdue) Mario Addison, DE, (Troy) Tanner Antle, LB, (Tulsa) Tressor Baptiste, LB, (Texas A&M–Kingsville) JC Brignone, C, (Mississippi State) Antareis Bryan, CB, (Baylor) Corbin Bryant, DL, (Northwestern) Travis Cobb, WR, (Arizona) Josh Davis, T, (Georgia) Dom DeCicco, LB, (Pittsburgh) Ricky Henry, G, (Nebraska) Mike Holmes, CB, (Syracuse) Robert Hughes, RB, (Notre Dame) Ryan Jones, CB, (NW Missouri State) Spencer Lanning, P, (South Carolina) Alex Linnenkohl, C, (Oregon State) Jordan Miller, DT, (Southern) Deron Minor, LB, (McNeese State) Sean Murnane, DT, (Central Michigan) Dane Sanzenbacher, WR, (Ohio State) Andre Smith, TE, (Virginia Tech) Winston Venable, S, (Boise State) Trevor Vittatoe, QB, (UTEP) Anthony Walters, S, (Delaware) Jimmy Young, WR, (TCU) Personnel Staff Chicago Bears 2011 staff Front office Secretary of the board of directors – Virginia Halas McCaskey Chairman – George McCaskey President/CEO – Ted Phillips General manager – Jerry Angelo Director of player personnel – Tim Ruskell Senior director of football administration/general counsel – Cliff Stein Assistant director of pro personnel – Kevin Turks Area scout – Chris Ballard Area scout – Marty Barrett Area scout – Rex Hogan Area scout – Mark Sadowski Head coaches Head coach – Lovie Smith Assistant head coach/defensive coordinator – Rod Marinelli Offensive coaches Offensive coordinator – Mike Martz Quarterbacks – Shane Day Running backs – Tim Spencer Wide receivers – Darryl Drake Tight ends – Mike DeBord Offensive line – Mike Tice Offensive quality control – Andrew Hayes-Stoker Defensive coaches Defensive line – Mike Phair Linebackers – Bob Babich Defensive backs – Jon Hoke Assistant Defensive Backs (Safeties) – Gill Byrd Defensive quality control – Mikal Smith Special teams coaches Special teams coordinator – Dave Toub Assistant special teams – Kevin O'Dea Strength and conditioning Director of physical development – Rusty Jones Strength and conditioning – Jim Arthur Final roster 2011 Chicago Bears 53 10 7 10 Nathan Enderle y 12 Caleb Hanie 15 Josh McCown 25 Armando Allen y 24 Marion Barber III 32 Kahlil Bell 44 Tyler Clutts FB 80 Earl Bennett 23 Devin Hester RS 83 Max Komar 18 Dane Sanzenbacher y 11 Roy Williams wide receiver 87 Kellen Davis 85 Andre Smith tight end y 89 Matt Spaeth 63 Roberto Garza C 64 Ricky Henry y G 79 Levi Horn T 60 Lance Louis G/T 68 Frank Omiyale T/G 67 Chris Spencer American football G 73 J'Marcus Webb T 70 Edwin Williams American football G/C 76 Mansfield Wrotto G 95 Anthony Adams DT 94 Chauncey Davis DE 71 Israel Idonije DE 69 Henry Melton DT 96 Jordan Miller defensive tackle y DT 91 Amobi Okoye DT 92 Stephen Paea y DT 90 Julius Peppers DE 75 Matt Toeaina DT 98 Corey Wootton DE 55 Lance Briggs OLB 58 Dom DeCicco y MLB 93 Thaddeus Gibson OLB 53 Nick Roach OLB 59 Patrick Trahan OLB 54 Brian Urlacher MLB 52 Jabara Williams y OLB 35 Zack Bowman CB 21 Corey Graham CB 26 Tim Jennings CB 31 Brandon Meriweather FS 30 D. J. Moore cornerback CB 20 Craig Steltz SS 33 Charles Tillman CB 49 Winston Venable y FS 27 Major Wright SS  9 Robbie Gould K 45 Chris Massey LS  8 Adam Podlesh P 86 Kyle Adams y TE IR American football 72 Gabe Carimi y T IR 47 Chris Conte y FS IR  6 Jay Cutler QB IR 22 Matt Forté RB IR 13 Johnny Knox WR IR 65 Patrick Mannelly LS IR 97 J. T. Thomas linebacker y OLB IR 37 Anthony Walters American football y FS IR 74 Chris Williams offensive lineman G IR 62 Perry Dorrestein y T 17 Johnathan Haggerty WR 39 Robert Hughes American football y RB 19 Kevin Jurovich WR 29 Joshua Moore American football CB 84 Draylen Ross y TE 78 Reggie Stephens offensive lineman G/C Current depth chart Current official depth chart announced by the club before the first game of the season against the Atlanta Falcons Pro-Set 4-3 Yes No Yes Jay Cutler Caleb Hanie Nathan Enderle Matt Forte Marion Barber Kahlil Bell Tyler Clutts Roy Williams Johnny Knox Dane Sanzenbacher Devin Hester Earl Bennett Sam Hurd Kellen Davis Matt Spaeth Kyle Adams J'Marcus Webb Frank Omiyale Chris Williams Edwin Williams Roberto Garza Chris Spencer Lance Louis Edwin Williams Gabe Carimi Frank Omiyale Lance Briggs Brian Iwuh Brian Urlacher Dom DeCicco Nick Roach Brian Iwuh Major Wright Brandon Meriweather Chris Conte Craig Steltz Winston Venable Tim Jennings Zackary Bowman D. J. Moore Charles Tillman Corey Graham Julius Peppers Mario Addison Nick Reed Anthony Adams Matt Toeaina Stephen Paea Henry Melton Matt Toeaina Amobi Okoye Israel Idonije Corey Wootton Nick Reed Robbie Gould Adam Podlesh Devin Hester Devin Hester Patrick Mannelly Adam Podlesh https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/2011_roster.htm https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/2011_roster.htm 85 85 No Preseason Training camp The Bears held training camp once again at Olivet Nazarene University in Bourbonnais, Illinois. The club has held annual training camp activities at the university since 2002.https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/chi/training-camps.htm Chicago Bears Training Camp Locations Pro-Football-Reference.com August 10, 2011 August 10, 2011 The franchise opened up training camp with an expanded roster of 90 players. Over the next month players competed for spots on the final roster. By August 30, the club had cut down players from 90 to 75 after the third preseason game.https://www.cnbc.com/id/43942157 NFL Post-Lockout Calendar CNBC July 29, 2011 August 13, 2011 November 2024 medicmedic It was though announced on August 20, the roster cuts would be changed from 75 to 80 players.http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/08/20/first-roster-cut-will-be-to-80-players-nt-75/ ProFootballTalk.com Pro Football Talk August 20, 2011 August 21, 2011 The franchise then had to make another round of cuts at the conclusion of the fourth preseason game on September 3. The final roster consisted of 53 players.http://www.cleveland.com/browns/index.ssf/2011/07/nfl_lockout_tony_grossi_addres.html NFL lockout: Tony Grossi addresses frequently asked questions The Plain Dealer July 22, 2011 August 13, 2011 The Bears wrapped up training camp with a final public practice on August 19 before heading back to team headquarters in Lake Forest, Illinois. The practice marked the end of the team's three-week training camp in Bourbonnais.http://www.chicagobears.com/DailyBlogs.asp?DAILY_BLOG_DATE=08/19/11 https://archive.today/20120724150153/http://www.chicagobears.com/DailyBlogs.asp?DAILY_BLOG_DATE=08/19/11 dead July 24, 2012 Bears hold final camp practice The Plain Dealer August 19, 2011 August 21, 2011 2011 Chicago Bears preseason roster changes Preseason roster changes background:#03182f; color:white; border:2px solid #df6108; uncollapsed Departures *On August 16, the Bears released WR Travis Cobb, whom the team had brought in at the start of camp as an undrafted rookie free agent. On August 17, the Bears released T Mike Lamphear, whom the team had brought in at the start of camp. On August 27, the Bears released CB Mike Homes. On August 29, the Bears released LB Tanner Antle, C J. C. Brignone, DE Vernon Gholston, DT Tank Tyler and QB Trevor Vittatoe. On September 2, the Bears released G Johan Asiata, LB Tressor Baptiste, CB Antareis Bryan, T Josh Davis, WR Andy Fantuz, LB Chris Johnson, WR Onrea Jones, CB Ryan Jones, P Spencer Lanning, DE Jake Laptad, C Alex Linnenkohl, LB Deron Minor, FB Eddie Williams and WR Jimmy Young. On September 3, the Bears released RB Chester Taylor,https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-bears-release-rb-taylor-dt-harrison-20110903,0,1264439.story https://archive.today/20120723120710/http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-bears-release-rb-taylor-dt-harrison-20110903,0,1264439.story dead July 23, 2012 Cutdown day: Bears release Taylor, Harrison Chicago Tribune September 4, 2011 September 4, 2011 DT Marcus Harrison, TE Desmond Clark, RB Robert Hughes, WR Kris Adams, TE Andre Smith, S Anthony Walters, DT Jordan Miller, T Levi Horn, LB Patrick Trahan and G Ricky Henry. On September 5, the Bears released CB Joshua Moore.https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-bears-waive-cb-joshua-moore-20110905,0,7835518.story Bears waive CB Joshua Moore Chicago Tribune September 5, 2011 September 5, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110905182230/http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-bears-waive-cb-joshua-moore-20110905,0,7835518.story September 5, 2011 dead On September 6, the Bears released FB Will Ta'ufo'ou from the team. Additions *On September 4, the Bears signed former New England Patriot S Brandon Meriweather to a one-year deal.https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-bears-sign-former-patriots-safety-meriweather-20110904,0,192499.story https://archive.today/20120721195659/http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-bears-sign-former-patriots-safety-meriweather-20110904,0,192499.story dead July 21, 2012 Bears sign former Patriots safety Meriweather Chicago Tribune September 4, 2011 September 4, 2011 On September 7, the Bears signed FB Tyler Clutts to a three-year contract. Reserve List *On September 3, the Bears placed RB Harvey Unga on Left Team list. On September 3, the Bears placed LB J.T. Thomas on Injured list 10px. Practice Squad Additions *On September 4, the Bears added WR Kris Adams, T Levi Horn, G Ricky Henry, DT Jordan Miller, TE Andre Smith, LB Patrick Trahan and S Anthony Walters to the practice squad.https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-bears-resign-wr-adams-to-practice-squad-20110904,0,5384925.story https://archive.today/20130119192926/http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-bears-resign-wr-adams-to-practice-squad-20110904,0,5384925.story dead January 19, 2013 Bears re-sign Adams, Horn; add Allen to practice squad Chicago Tribune September 4, 2011 September 4, 2011 http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8118 https://archive.today/20120730125914/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8118 dead July 30, 2012 Seven players added to practice squad ChicagoBears.com September 4, 2011 September 4, 2011 All players were part of the original 90-man training camp roster. On September 4, the Bears added former Tampa Bay Buccaneer RB Armando Allen to their practice squad. Soldier Field turf issue The club had scheduled an evening practice at Soldier Field in front of fans in an event called "Family Fest". However, the event was cancelled hours before the event was scheduled to begin due to the unsafe playing conditions at Soldier Field.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8026 https://archive.today/20120722025205/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8026 dead July 22, 2012 Family Fest practice canceled Chicagobears.com August 5, 2011 August 6, 2011 This is not the first incident related to the playing surface at the stadium. Brian Urlacher and other players have called for the surface to be changed from natural grass to artificial FieldTurf.http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/story/15406350/bears-players-want-artifical-surface-at-soldier-field Bears players want artificial surface at Soldier Field CBS Sports August 6, 2011 August 6, 2011 Chicago's mayor Rahm Emanuel has called on the Chicago Park District to find a permanent solution to the decades-old turf battle at the venue.http://www.suntimes.com/news/politics/6969620-418/emanuel-wants-solution-to-soldier-field-turf-problem.html Emanuel wants solution to Soldier Field turf problem Chicago Sun-Times August 9, 2011 August 9, 2011 However, Bears chairman George McCaskey has stated on record that the playing surface at Soldier Field will not change from grass to an artificial surface. McCaskey cited fewer injuries occur on natural grass and therefore believes the natural grass surface prolongs players' careers. He did admit a poorly maintained grass surface is unacceptable and promised the club will take a more active role in maintaining the playing surface so the field can be for home games.http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d82153ee8/article/mccaskey-bears-will-monitor-soldier-field-closely-but-no-turf https://web.archive.org/web/20121107034455/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d82153ee8/article/mccaskey-bears-will-monitor-soldier-field-closely-but-no-turf dead November 7, 2012 McCaskey: Bears will monitor Soldier Field closely, but no turf NFL.com August 9, 2011 August 9, 2011http://www.suntimes.com/sports/football/bears/6956735-606/bears-will-remain-a-grass-act.html Bears will remain a grass act Chicago Sun-Times August 9, 2011 August 9, 2011 In Week 13, the field was resodded for the Bears-Chiefs game. Schedule Even though the league was in the midst of the lockout, the NFL announced the Bears' preseason schedule on April 12, 2011. The schedule contained the traditional four opponents and a fifth game to be played during the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2011 induction weekend.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7734 Hall of Fame Game will feature Bears Chicago Bears April 12, 2011 July 28, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110415111021/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7734 April 15, 2011 dead The first scheduled preseason game for the Bears was to be the Pro Football Hall of Fame Game against the St. Louis Rams. However, with the lockout lingering into late July resulting in a delayed start to training camp, the NFL cancelled the game.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7977 https://archive.today/20120721155826/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7977 dead July 21, 2012 NFL cancels Bears-Rams Hall of Fame Game Chicago Bears July 21, 2011 August 6, 2011 The Bears won their first preseason game defeating the Buffalo Bills 10–3.http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2011081352/2011/PRE1/bills@bears NFL Game Center: Buffalo Bills at Chicago Bears NFL.com August 13, 2011 August 13, 2011 The offensive line struggled in the game while giving up nine sacks over the course of the game.https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-0814-bears-bills-chicago--20110814,0,6351013.story Bears' offense fails to impress in 10–3 victory Chicago Tribune August 13, 2011 August 13, 2011 Brad Biggs The Bears continued their preseason campaign with a visit to New Meadowlands Stadium in New Jersey to take on the New York Giants. The offensive line improved in the game by allowing only one sack of Cutler compared to the nine they gave up in a game last year.http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Offensive-line-checks-out-OK-for-Bears.html Offensive Line Checks out OK for Bears National Football Post August 23, 2011 August 23, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110901045438/http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/Offensive-line-checks-out-OK-for-Bears.html September 1, 2011 dead Cutler even joked about the experience by responding "Yeah, upright" to the question asked to him if this game against the Giants felt any different than last year's debacle. Cutler did express pleasure with the performance of the two young tackles, Webb and Carimi, when asked to assess their performance during preseason. The team did however fail to score twice inside the red zone in the 1st half against the Giants in a 41–13 loss.https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-0823-bears-bits--20110823,0,6809911.story Bears struggle in red zone Chicago Tribune August 23, 2011 August 23, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110823162141/http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/ct-spt-0823-bears-bits--20110823,0,6809911.story August 23, 2011 dead The game also saw the Bears had a punt blocked by the Giants and newly signed WR Roy Williams drop the first two passes thrown to him in his Bears career.https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-biggs-10-thoughts-on-the-bears-loss-to-giants-20110823,0,1793785,full.story Brad Biggs: 10 thoughts on the Chicago Bears' loss to New York Giants Chicago Tribune August 23, 2011 August 23, 2011 August 2019 InternetArchiveBot yes http://aol.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2011-08-23/chicago-bears-team-report-wide-receiver-roy-williams-under-increased-scrutiny Wide receiver Roy Williams under increased scrutiny Sporting News August 23, 2011 August 23, 2011 December 16, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20111216215132/http://aol.sportingnews.com/nfl/story/2011-08-23/chicago-bears-team-report-wide-receiver-roy-williams-under-increased-scrutiny dead In the third game, the Bears's first team offense showed more effectiveness than in previous games. The offensive starters racked up 239 yards in the first half.https://www.chicagotribune.com/2011/08/27/bears-offense-shows-some-smoothness-in-14-13-loss/ Bears offense shows some smoothness in 14–13 loss Chicago Tribune August 27, 2011 September 4, 2011 The team wrapped up the preseason season against the Browns by sitting out many key starters with instead going with various second-, third-, and even fourth-stringers in a very warm and humid night in Chicago.https://www.chicagotribune.com/2011/09/01/chicago-bears-four-downs/ Chicago Bears: Four downs Chicago Tribune September 1, 2011 September 1, 2011http://chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8110 Bears conclude preseason with win ChicagoBears.com September 1, 2011 September 1, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110924130526/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8110 September 24, 2011 dead On September 4, a day after rosters were trimmed down to 53 men, the Bears signed former first-round draft pick and two-time Pro Bowler safety Brandon Meriweather, who was released by the New England Patriots the previous day. In response to adding Meriweather, the Bears released corner back Joshua Moore to keep the roster at 53 men. Week Date Kickoff (CDT) Opponent Results Game site NFL.comGameBook NFL.comRecap Final score Team record HOF August 7 7:00 p.m. vs. St. Louis Rams Cancelled due to the 2011 NFL Lockout 1 August 13 7:00 p.m. Buffalo Bills W 10–3 1–0 Soldier Field Gamebook Recap 2 August 22 7:00 p.m. at New York Giants L 13–41 1–1 New Meadowlands Stadium Gamebook Recap 3 August 27 7:00 p.m. at Tennessee Titans L 13–14 1–2 LP Field Gamebook Recap 4 September 1 7:00 p.m. Cleveland Browns W 24–14 2–2 Soldier Field Gamebook Recap Regular season Season summary 2011 Chicago Bears season roster changes Regular season roster changes background:#03182f; color:white; border:2px solid #df6108; autocollapse Departures *On October 11, the Bears released S Winston Venable. On October 27, the Bears released S Chris Harris. On November 14, the Bears released DE Nick Reed from the club. On November 21, the Bears released DE Mario Addison. On November 24, the Bears released LS Jake Laptad. On November 29, the Bears released LB Brain Iwuh 10px. On December 16, the Bears released WR Sam Hurd. Additions *On October 11, the Bears elevated S Anthony Walters to the 53-man roster from the practice squad. On October 28, the Bears claimed LB Jabara Williams off waivers. On November 9, the Bears elevated TE Andre Smith from the practice squad. On November 14, the Bears signed DE Chauncey Davis to a two-year contract. On November 16, the Bears signed S Winston Venable to a contract. On November 17, the Bears elevated G Ricky Henry from the practice squad. On November 19, the Bears elevated T Levi Horn from the practice squad. On November 22, the Bears signed LS Jake Laptad to a three-year contract. On November 23, the Bears signed QB Josh McCown to a one-year contract. On November 24, the Bears signed LS Chris Massey to a one-year contract. On November 29, the Bears elevated LB Patrick Trahan from the practice squad. On December 19, the Bears elevated RB Armando Allen, DE Thaddeus Gibson and WR Max Komar to the 53-man roster from the practice squad. Extensions *On November 8, the Bears resigned G/C Roberto Garza to a two-year contract extension. On December 2, the Bears resigned WR Earl Bennett to a four-year contract extension. Injured Reserve *On November 9, the Bears placed TE Kyle Adams 10px on Injured Reserve. On November 14, the Bears placed G Chris Williams 10px on Injured Reserve. On November 16, the Bears placed S Anthony Walters 10px on Injured Reserve. On November 18, the Bears placed T Gabe Carimi 10px on Injured Reserve. On November 21, the Bears placed LS Patrick Mannelly 10px on Injured Reserve. On December 19, the Bears placed S Chris Conte 10px and WR Johnny Knox 10px on Injured Reserve. Practice Squad Transactions *On October 11, the Bears terminate the practice squad contracts of WR Kris Adams and RB Armando Allen and sign WR Max Komar and DE Jake Laptad to the practice squad. On October 13, the Bears signed S Winston Venable to the practice squad. On October 27, the Bears terminated the practice squad contract of DE Jake Laptad. On November 1, the Bears signed RB Armando Allen to the practice squad. On November 8, the Bears terminated the practice squad contract of S Winston Venable. On November 8, the Bears signed G Reggie Stephens to the practice squad. On November 9, the Bears agreed to terms with TE Draylon Ross to the practice squad. On November 22, the Bears signed T Josh Davis and CB Joshua Moore to the practice squad. On November 23, the Bears signed T Perry Dorrestein to the practice squad. On November 23, the Bears terminated the practice squad contract of T Josh Davis. On November 30, the Bears signed LB Thaddeus Gibson to the practice squad. On December 19, the Bears signed RB Robert Hughes to the practice squad. On December 20, the Bears signed WR Johnathan Haggerty to the practice squad. On December 21, the Bears signed WR Kevin Jurovich to the practice squad. Schedule The Bears' regular season schedule was announced on April 19, 2011.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7763 Bears, division foes in national spotlight Chicagobears.com May 1, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110423044553/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=7763 April 23, 2011 dead One day earlier (April 18), the NFL announced that the Bears would face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the International Series at Wembley Stadium in London, England, on October 23.https://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/news/story?id=6384888 Bears, Bucs to square off in London ESPN April 18, 2011 May 1, 2011 Week Date Kickoff Opponent Results Game site NFL.comGameBook NFL.comRecap Final score Team record 1 September 11 12:00 p.m. Atlanta Falcons§ W 30–12 1–0 Soldier Field Gamebook Recap 2 September 18 12:00 p.m. at New Orleans Saints§ L 13–30 1–1 Louisiana Superdome Gamebook Recap 3 September 25 3:15 p.m. Green Bay Packers† L 17–27 1–2 Soldier Field Gamebook Recap 4 October 2 12:00 p.m. Carolina Panthers§ W 34–29 2–2 Soldier Field Gamebook Recap 5 October 10 7:30 p.m. at Detroit Lions† L 13–24 2–3 Ford Field Gamebook Recap 6 October 16 7:20 p.m. Minnesota Vikings† W 39–10 3–3 Soldier Field Gamebook Recap 7 October 23 12:00 p.m. at Tampa Bay Buccaneers§ W 24–18 4–3 Wembley Stadium (London)^ Gamebook Recap 8 Bye 9 November 7 7:30 p.m. at Philadelphia Eagles§ W 30–24 5–3 Lincoln Financial Field Gamebook Recap 10 November 13 3:15 pm.https://www.espn.com/blog/chicago/bears/post/_/id/4673121/bears-lions-moved-to-315-ct Bears-Lions moved to 3:15 CT ESPNChicago.com October 31, 2011 May 18, 2025 Detroit Lions† W 37–13 6–3 Soldier Field Gamebook Recap 11 November 20 3:15 p.m. San Diego Chargers≈ W 31–20 7–3 Soldier Field Gamebook Recap 12 November 27 3:05 p.m. at Oakland Raiders≈ L 20–25 7–4 O.co Coliseum Gamebook Recap 13 December 4 12:00 p.m. Kansas City Chiefs≈ L 3–10 7–5 Soldier Field Gamebook Recap 14 December 11 3:05 p.m. at Denver Broncos≈ L 10–13 (OT) 7–6 Sports Authority Field at Mile High Gamebook Recap 15 December 18 12:00 p.m. Seattle Seahawks§ L 14–38 7–7 Soldier Field Gamebook Recap 16 December 25‡ 7:20 p.m. at Green Bay Packers† L 21–35 7–8 Lambeau Field Gamebook Recap 17 January 1 12:00 p.m. at Minnesota Vikings† W 17–13 8–8 Mall of America Field Gamebook RecapNOTES: All times are Central. Intra-division games are in Bold text. LEGEND: #03202F # white Games played with color uniforms. white # #03202F Games played with white uniforms. #df6108 # white Games played with alternate uniforms.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/ChalkTalkStory.asp?story_id=8173 Chicago Bears to wear Orange against Green Bay, Detroit ChicagoBears.com September 20, 2011 September 20, 2011 https://web.archive.org/web/20110924054145/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/ChalkTalkStory.asp?story_id=8173 September 24, 2011 dead #dfd – black Light green background indicates a victory. #fdd – black Light red background indicates a loss. white † black Games against division opponents. white § black Games against intra-conference non-division opponents. white ≈ black Games against inter-conference opponents.  ^  Red/White (Blue border) indicates the International Series game in London.  ‡  Green/White (Red border) indicates a Christmas Day football game. Standings Game-by-game summaries Week 1: vs. Atlanta Falcons #eee #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week One: Atlanta Falcons at Chicago Bears – Game summary September 11, 2011 1:00 pm EDT/noon CDT Falcons 3 0 3 6 Bears 10 6 14 0 Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois 62,115 78 °F (mostly cloudy) Ed Hochuli Fox Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, and Tony Siragusa Gamebook First quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 41 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 3–0) ATL – Matt Bryant 48 yd. Fieal Goal, (Tie 3–3) CHI – Matt Forte 56 yd. TD reception from Jay Cutler, R. Gould XP good, (CHI 10–3) Second quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 23 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 13–3) CHI – Robbie Gould 26 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 16–3) Third quarter ATL – Matt Bryant 25 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 16–6) CHI – Matt Spaeth 1 yd. TD reception from Jay Cutler, R. Gould XP good, (CHI 23–6) CHI – Matt Ryan fumble, Brian Urlacher 12 yd. TD recovered fumble return, R. Gould XP good, (CHI 30–6) Fourth quarter ATL – Kroy Biermann 50 yd. INT return from Jay Cutler, Matt Ryan run up the middle, failed 2-pt attempt, (CHI 30–12) Top passers ATL – Matt Ryan 31/47, 319 yards, INT CHI – Jay Cutler 22/32, 312 yards, 2 TDs, INT Top rushers ATL – Michael Turner 10 attempts, 100 yards CHI – Matt Forte 16 attempts, 68 yards Top receivers ATL – Tony Gonzalez 5 receptions, 72 yards CHI – Matt Forte 5 receptions, 90 yards, TD Top tacklers ATL – Sean Weatherspoon 10 tackles, Pass Def CHI – Brian Urlacher 8 tackles (2 ast), INT, Fum Rec The Bears opened up the season against the Atlanta Falcons at Soldier Field. The Falcons were the top-seeded NFC team in 2010, and were picked by many to be a Super Bowl contender. The Bears dominated the game against the Falcons, forcing 2 turnovers, and battering quarterback Matt Ryan for five sacks. Brian Urlacher recorded an interception and returned a fumble for a touchdown resulting in Urlacher being named the NFC Defensive Player of the Week. Defensive end Julius Peppers recorded two sacks and forced a fumble. Jay Cutler in his first game since the criticism of the NFC Championship Game against the Green Bay Packers, had a solid performance throwing for 312 yards and 2 touchdowns. Cutler did have a pass tipped in the fourth quarter that was returned for an interception by Kroy Biermann. Falcons running back Michael Turner finished with 100 yards on 10 carries, but 53 came on one dash and the low carry total is what mattered. Ryan was forced to throw 47 times as the Bears made the Falcons one-dimensional by getting out to a 16–3 halftime lead.https://www.chicagotribune.com/2011/09/11/bears-make-opening-statement-with-rout-of-falcons/ Bears make opening statement with rout of Falcons Chicago Tribune September 11, 2011 September 11, 2011https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310911003 https://web.archive.org/web/20160821000027/http://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=310911003 dead August 21, 2016 Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears – Recap ESPN September 11, 2011 September 11, 2011 The victory places the Bears at 1–0. Week 2: at New Orleans Saints #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Two: Chicago Bears at New Orleans Saints – Game summary September 18, 2011 1:00 pm. EDT/12:00 pm. CDT Bears 7 3 3 0 Saints 3 13 7 7 Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans, Louisiana 73,019 Played indoors (dome stadium) Walt Coleman Fox Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, and Pam Oliver Gamebook First quarter CHI – Dane Sanzenbacher 8 yd. TD reception from Jay Cutler, R.Gould XP Good, (CHI 7–0) NO – John Kasay 31 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 7–3) Second quarter NO – Devery Henderson 79 yd. TD reception from Drew Brees, J.Kasay XP Good (NO 10-7) NO – John Kasay 29 yd. Field Goal, (NO 13-7) NO – John Kasay 53 yd. Field Goal, (NO 16-7) CHI – Robbie Gould 42 yd. Field Goal, (NO 16-10) Third quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 38 yd. Field Goal (NO 16-13) NO – Robert Meachem 4 yd. TD reception from Drew Brees, J.Kasay XP Good (NO 23-13) Fourth quarter NO – Darren Sproles 12 yd. TD reception from Drew Brees, J. Kasay XP Good (NO 30-13) Top passers CHI – Jay Cutler 19/45, 244 yards, 1 TD NO – Drew Brees 26/37, 270 yards, 3 TDs Top rushers CHI – Matt Forte 10 attempts, 49 yards NO – Mark Ingram II 14 attempts, 51 yards Top receivers CHI – Matt Forte 10 receptions, 117 yards NO – Darren Sproles 8 receptions, 43 yards Top tacklers CHI – Lance Briggs 10 tackles (1 ast) NO – Roland Harper 7 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble During the game, three Bears players fell to injury; Bears rookie Gabe Carimi was lost for the season with a knee injury, receiver Earl Bennett was lost for a few weeks, and safety Major Wright sustained a head injury after colliding with Saints tight end Jimmy Graham. The Bears were only able to muster one takeaway by cornerback Charles Tillman, who stripped the ball from Mark Ingram II and recovered at the Bears 9-yard line. Saints quarterback Drew Brees' 79-yard touchdown pass to Devery Henderson was the longest that the Bears allowed since 2008 against the Vikings. The Bears had also been able to convert only 2 of 12 third down attempts, compared to New Orleans, who converted 8 of 17.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8168 Forte shines in his return to Louisiana Chicagobears.com August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20110927060208/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8168 September 27, 2011 dead With the loss, Chicago fell to 1–1. In 2012, the Bears were considered as one of the possible targets of the Saints bounty program because of the injuries to Carimi and Wright, and Jay Cutler was sacked 6 times, and was kicked in the throat. Later in the game, Bears offensive tackle Frank Omiyale pulled a Saints defender off of Cutler after what Omiyale called "some dirty stuff"."Wright Michael C. https://www.espn.com/blog/chicago/bears/post/_/id/4675326/bears-wonder-if-saints-targeted-them Bears wonder if Saints targeted them March 2, 2012 ESPN Chicago March 6, 2012 Week 3: vs. Green Bay Packers #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Three: Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears – Game summary September 25, 2011 4:15 pm. EDT/3:15 pm. CDT Packers 7 10 3 7 Bears 0 10 0 7 Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois 62,339 56 °F, Clear Mike Carey Fox Joe Buck, Troy Aikman, and Pam Oliver Gamebook First quarter GB – Jermichael Finley 6 yd. TD reception from Aaron Rodgers, M.Crosby XP Good (GB 7–0) Second quarter GB – Jermichael Finley 7 yd. TD reception from Aaron Rodgers, M.Crosby XP Good, (GB 14–0) CHI – Dane Sanzenbacher 4 yd. TD reception from Jay Cutler, R. Gould XP Good, (GB 14–7) GB – Mason Crosby 37 yd. Field Goal, (GB 17–7) CHI – Robbie Gould 25 yd. Field Goal, (GB 17–10) Third quarter GB – Mason Crosby 28 yd. Field Goal, (GB 20–10) Fourth quarter GB – Jermichael Finley 10 yd. TD reception from Aaron Rodgers, M. Crosby XP Good, (GB 27–10) CHI – Kellen Davis 32 yd. TD reception from Jay Cutler, R. Gould XP Good, (GB 27–17) Top passers GB – Aaron Rodgers 28/38, 297 yards, 3 TDs, INT CHI – Jay Cutler 21/37, 302 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs Top rushers GB – Ryan Grant 17 attempts, 92 yards CHI – Jay Cutler 3 attempts, 11 yards Top receivers GB – Greg Jennings 9 receptions, 119 yards CHI – Johnny Knox 4 receptions, 84 yards Top tacklers GB – Morgan Burnett 6 tackles (1 ast), 2 pass def, 2 INTs CHI – Lance Briggs 14 tackles (4 ast), forced fum Against their hated rivals, the Bears seemed lost for much of the game, allowing Aaron Rodgers to throw three touchdown passes to tight end Jermichael Finley, and the Bears running game was only able to collect 13 yards. Though Jay Cutler threw for 302 yards, two touchdowns, and a 78.9 passer rating, he was also intercepted twice by Morgan Burnett, and was sacked three times. After the Packers led 14–0 in the first quarter, Cutler would find rookie Dane Sanzenbacher on a 4-yard touchdown pass. After Mason Crosby made a field goal, the Bears would score on Robbie Gould's 25-yard field goal. The Packers would then score ten more points. After Cutler was intercepted, Lance Briggs would strip James Starks, and Julius Peppers would recover the loose ball. Cutler would then hit Kellen Davis on a 32-yard touchdown pass, but would fail to score for the rest of the game.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8189 Mistake-prone Bears fall to rival Packers Chicagobears.com September 25, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120819211659/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8189 August 19, 2012 dead The Bears would have narrowed the score to three points on a trick play, but was nullified by a penalty. On a punt late in the game, Devin Hester drifted to the left with blockers covering him, giving them the impression that Hester will return, but the punt was actually heading towards Johnny Knox, who returned the punt 89 yards for a touchdown. However, the play would be nullified after cornerback Corey Graham was penalized for holding.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8196 Key aspects of fake went as planned Chicagobears.com September 27, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20111231022406/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8196 December 31, 2011 dead The loss gave the Bears a 1–2 record. Week 4: vs. Carolina Panthers #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Four: Carolina Panthers at Chicago Bears – Game summary October 2, 2011 1:00 pm. EDT/12:00 pm. CDT Panthers 3 17 0 9 Bears 10 14 0 10 Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois 62,135 60 °F, Sunny Terry McAulay Fox Thom Brennaman, Brian Billick, and Laura Okmin Gamebook First quarter CAR – Olindo Mare 29 yd. Field Goal, (CAR 3–0) CHI – Robbie Gould 20 yd. Field Goal, (Tie 3–3) CHI – D.J. Moore 20 yd. INT return for TD, R. Gould XP Good, (CHI 10–3) Second quarter CAR – Cam Newton 1 yd. TD run, O. Mare XP Good, (Tie 10–10) CHI – Matt Forte 17 yd. TD run, R. Gould XP Good, (CHI 17–10) CHI – Devin Hester 69 yd. punt return for TD, R. Gould XP Good, (CHI 24–10) CAR – Cam Newton 2 yd. TD run, R. Gould XP Good, (CHI 24–17) CAR – Olindo Mare 39 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 24–20) Third quarter Fourth quarter CAR – Olindo Mare 38 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 24–23) CHI – Robbie Gould 24 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 27–23) CHI – Marion Barber 3 yd. TD run, (CHI 34–23) CAR – Greg Olsen 3 yd. TD reception from Cam Newton, 2 pt. failed, (CHI 34–29) Top passers CAR – Cam Newton 27/46, 374 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT CHI – Jay Cutler 9/17, 102 yards, 1 INT Top rushers CAR – DeAngelo Williams 10 attempts, 82 yards CHI – Matt Forte 25 attempts, 205 yards, 1 TD Top receivers CAR – Steve Smith 8 receptions, 181 yards CHI – Johnny Knox 3 receptions, 48 yards Top tacklers CAR – Dan Connor 8 tackles (2 ast) CHI – Brian Urlacher 8 tackles Against former defensive coordinator Ron Rivera and tight end Greg Olsen,http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8220 Rivera, Olsen fall to their former team Chicagobears.com October 3, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20111021204927/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8220 October 21, 2011 dead the Bears scored touchdowns on all three phases (offense, defense, special teams). Matt Forte, who was only able to record two yards the week before, recorded 205 yards against Carolina, as well as a 17-yard touchdown run. Though the Bears defense was able to keep Carolina from converting only 2 of 12 third down attempts, and D. J. Moore was able to pick off Cam Newton, the defense did not record a sack, and allowed 547 yards. Devin Hester also returned a punt 69 yards for a touchdown, which broke the all-time punt return touchdown record.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8214 Hester sets another NFL return record Chicagobears.com October 2, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120106101459/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8214 January 6, 2012 dead Hester would also return a kickoff 73 yards. However, Newton completed 27 of 46 passes for 374 yards, 1 touchdown and an 83.1 passer rating while also rushing for 35 yards and two TDs on eight carries, and the score was 34–29 late in the game when Newton connected with Olsen with :04 left in the game. The Panthers attempted to kick an onside kick, but Hester would recover the kick and give Chicago the victory.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8211 All three phases lift Bears over Panthers Chicagobears.com October 2, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120819211755/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8211 August 19, 2012 dead The victory gave Chicago a 2–2 record. Week 5: at Detroit Lions #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Five: Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions – Game summary October 10, 2011 8:30 pm. EDT/7:30 pm. CDT Bears 0 10 0 3 Lions 0 7 14 3 Ford Field, Detroit, Michigan 67,861 Played indoors (dome stadium) Clete Blakeman ESPN Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Jon Gruden, Suzy Kolber, and Rachel Nichols Gamebook First quarter No scoring plays Second quarter DET – Calvin Johnson 73 yd. TD reception from Matthew Stafford, J.Hanson XP Good (DET 7–0) CHI – Robbie Gould 44 yd. Field Goal, (DET 7–3) CHI – Kellen Davis 9 yd. TD reception from Jay Cutler, J.Hanson XP Good (CHI 10–7) Third quarter DET – Brandon Pettigrew 18 yd. TD reception from Matthew Stafford, J.Hanson XP Good (DET 14–10) DET – Jahvid Best 88 yd. TD run, J. Hanson XP Good, (DET 21–10) Fourth quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 49 yd. Field Goal, (DET 21–13) DET – Jason Hanson 31 yd. Field Goal, (DET 24–13) Top passers CHI – Jay Cutler – 28/38, 249 yards, 1 touchdown DET – Matthew Stafford – 19/26, 219 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception Top rushers CHI – Matt Forté – 22 carries, 116 yards DET – Jahvid Best – 12 carries, 163 yards, 1 touchdown Top receivers CHI – Dane Sanzenbacher – 6 receptions, 64 yards DET – Calvin Johnson – 5 receptions, 130 yards, 1 touchdown Top tacklers CHI – Lance Briggs – 5 tackles, 4 assists DET – DeAndre Levy – 9 tackles, 4 assists Coming off their home win over the Panthers, the Bears flew to Ford Field for a Week 5 Monday Night duel with their NFC North foe, the Detroit Lions. After a scoreless first quarter, Chicago trailed in the second quarter with Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford completing a 73-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Calvin Johnson. The Bears would answer with a 44-yard field goal from kicker Robbie Gould, followed by quarterback Jay Cutler finding tight end Kellen Davis on a 9-yard touchdown pass.December 2011 Detroit responded in the third quarter with Stafford completing an 18-yard touchdown pass to tight end Brandon Pettigrew, followed by running back Jahvid Best getting an 88-yard touchdown run. Chicago tried to rally in the fourth quarter with a 49-yard field goal from Gould, but the Lions pulled away with kicker Jason Hanson nailing a 31-yard field goal.December 2011 With the loss, the Bears fell to 2–3. Week 6: vs. Minnesota Vikings #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Six: Minnesota Vikings at Chicago Bears – Game summary October 16, 2011 8:20 pm. EDT/7:20 pm. CDT Vikings 0 3 7 0 Bears 16 10 10 3 Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois 62,322 56 °F, Clear, winds gusting to 20mph Walt Anderson NBC Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth, and Michele Tafoya Gamebook First quarter CHI – Devin Hester 48 yd. pass from Jay Cutler (Robbie Gould kick) CHI 7–0 CHI – Donovan McNabb sacked in end zone by Stephan Paea for a Safety. CHI 9–0 CHI – Marion Barber 3 yd. run (Gould kick) CHI 16–0 Second quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 37 yd. Field Goal CHI 16–3 CHI – Dane Sanzenbacher 13 yd. pass from Jay Cutler (Robbie Gould kick) CHI 23–3 CHI – Robbie Gould 51 yd. Field Goal CHI 26–3 Third quarter MIN – Adrian Peterson 4 yd. run (Ryan Longwell kick) CHI 26–10 CHI – Devin Hester 98 yd. kickoff return (Robbie Gould kick) CHI 33–10 CHI – Robbie Gould 26 yd. Field Goal CHI 36–10 Fourth quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 22 yd. Field Goal CHI 39–10 Top passers MIN – Dovovan McNabb – 19/24, 177 yards CHI – Jay Cutler – 21/31, 267 yards, 2 touchdowns Top rushers MIN – Adrian Peterson – 12 carries, 39 yards CHI – Matt Forte – 17 carries, 87 yards Top receivers MIN – Percy Harvin – 7 receptions, 78 yards CHI – Matt Forte – 6 receptions, 36 yards Top tacklers MIN – Erin Henderson – 8 tackles CHI – Charles Tillman – 10 tackles, 1 assist On Sunday night, the Bears would once again score on all three phases. The offensive line improved,http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8259 Bears offensive line shows improvement Chicagobears.com October 17, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20111221154950/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8259 December 21, 2011 dead allowing Jay Cutler to be sacked only once. Cutler would complete 21 of 31 passes for 267 yards with two touchdowns and a 115.9 passer rating. On the Bears opening possession, Cutler would fire a 48-yard touchdown pass to Devin Hester; it was the first time that the Bears scored a touchdown on the opening drive. Making his NFL debut, Stephen Paea sacked Donovan McNabb in the end zone for a safety, increasing the score to 9–0. Marion Barber would then score on a 3-yard run. Ryan Longwell would then kick a 37-yard field goal to make the score 16–3, but Cutler's 18-yard pass to Dane Sanzenbacher and Robbie Gould's 51-yard field goal increased the lead to 26–3. In the second half, Vikings defensive end Jared Allen would then force a fumble, and Adrian Peterson would then score, making the score 26–10, but Devin Hester would then return a kickoff 98 yards for a touchdown to increase the lead to 33–10.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8261 Hester pads his all-time NFL record Chicagobears.com August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20111221015128/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8261 December 21, 2011 dead Gould would then kick two field goals to end the game at 39–10. The Bears defense would record five sacks, including two by Julius Peppers, who started the game despite being listed as "Doubtful" due to a sprained knee. The defense would limit Peterson to just 39 yards, the lowest he recorded against the Bears.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8258 Bears pound Vikings in NFC North clash Chicagobears.com October 16, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120819212328/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8258 August 19, 2012 dead With the win, the Bears improved to 3–3. Week 7: at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (London, England) #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Seven: Chicago Bears at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Game summary October 23, 2011 6:00 p.m. BST/12:00 pm. CDT Bears 7 7 7 3 Buccaneers 2 3 0 13 Wembley Stadium, London, England (NFL International Series) 76,981 62 °F (Clear) Tony Corrente Fox Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, and Tony Siragusa Gamebook First quarter CHI – Matt Forte 32 yd. run (Robbie Gould kick) CHI 7–0 TB – Ronde Barber tackled Matt Forte in the end zone for a safety CHI 7–2 Second quarter CHI – Roy Williams 25 yd. pass from Jay Cutler (Robbie Gould kick) CHI 14–2 TB – Connor Barth 33 yd. Field Goal CHI 14–5 Third quarter CHI – Marion Barber 12 yd. run (Robbie Gould kick) CHI 21–5 Fourth quarter TB – Kellen Winslow 2 yd. pass from Josh Freeman (Pass Failed) CHI 21–11 TB – Dezmon Briscoe 24 yd. pass from Josh Freeman (Connor Barth kick) CHI 21–18 CHI – Robbie Gould 25 yd. Field Goal CHI 24–18 Top passers CHI – Cutler – 17/32, 226 yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions TB – Josh Freeman – 29/51, 264 yards, 2 touchdowns, 4 interceptions Top rushers CHI – Matt Forté – 25 rushes, 145 yards, 1 touchdown TB – Kregg Lumpkin – 8 rushes, 15 yards Top receivers CHI – Roy Williams – 4 receptions, 59 yards, 1 touchdown TB – Mike Williams – 6 receptions, 75 yards Top tacklers CHI – Charles Tillman – 9 tackles, 1 assist TB – Sean Jones – 6 tackles, 1 assist In the team's first international game since the 1997 American Bowl, the Bears traveled to London to take on the Buccaneers. The Bears struck first when Matt Forte scored on a 32-yard touchdown. However, Tampa Bay would then strike back when Ronde Barber tackled Forte in his own end zone for a safety. Jay Cutler would then hit Roy Williams for a 25-yard touchdown, and Tampa Bay would then score on a Connor Barth field goal. In the third quarter, Marion Barber would score on a 12-yard run. In the fourth quarter, Tampa Bay would attempt to fight back and scored 2 touchdowns, but a Robbie Gould field goal and a D. J. Moore interception would then put the game away.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8285 Bears hang on for key win over Bucs Chicagobears.com October 23, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120819211617/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8285 August 19, 2012 dead Chicago improved to 4–3 with the win. Week 8: Bye After the game across the Atlantic, the Bears would have a bye week upon their return to the United States. Week 9: at Philadelphia Eagles #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Nine: Chicago Bears at Philadelphia Eagles – Game summary November 7, 2011 8:30 pm. EST/7:30 pm. CST Bears 7 10 3 10 Eagles 0 10 14 0 Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 69,144 51 °F, Clear Scott Green ESPN Mike Tirico, Ron Jaworski, Jon Gruden, Suzy Kolber, and Rachel Nichols Gamebook First quarter CHI – Matt Spaeth 5 yd. TD reception from Jay Cutler, R. Gould XP Good (CHI 7–0) Second quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 51 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 10–0) PHI – Alex Henery 47 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 10–3) PHI – Matt Forté fumble, Brian Rolle 22 yd. TD recovered fumble return, A. Henery XP good, (Tied 10–10) CHI – Marion Barber 2 yd. TD run, R. Gould XP Good, (CHI 17–10) Third quarter PHI – Ronnie Brown 4 yd. TD run, A. Henery XP Good, (Tied 17–17) PHI – LeSean McCoy 33 yd. TD run, A. Henery XP Good, (PHI 24–17) CHI – Robbie Gould 38 yd. Field Goal, (PHI 24–20) Fourth quarter CHI – Earl Bennett 5 yd. TD reception from Jay Cutler, R. Gould XP Good (CHI 27–24) CHI – Robbie Gould 22 yd. Field Goal, (CHI 30–24) Top passers CHI – Jay Cutler – 18/32, 208 yards, 2 touchdowns PHI – Michael Vick – 21/38, 213 yards, 1 interception Top rushers CHI – Matt Forte – 24 carries, 113 yards PHI – LeSean McCoy – 16 carries, 71 yards Top receivers CHI – Earl Bennett – 5 receptions, 95 yards, 1 touchdown PHI – Brent Celek – 7 receptions, 60 yards Top tacklers CHI – Brian Urlacher – 10 tackles, 1 assist PHI – Kurt Coleman – 10 tackles, 2 assist Coming off their bye week, the Bears flew to Lincoln Financial Field for a Week 9 Monday night duel with the Philadelphia Eagles. Chicago delivered the game's opening punch in the first quarter as quarterback Jay Cutler found tight end Matt Spaeth on a 5-yard touchdown pass. The Bears added onto their lead in the second quarter with a 51-yard field goal from kicker Robbie Gould. The Eagles would answer with kicker Alex Henery getting a 47-yard field goal, followed by linebacker Brian Rolle returned a fumble 22 yards for a touchdown, yet Chicago closed out the half with a 2-yard touchdown run from running back Marion Barber. Philadelphia took the lead in the third quarter with running back Ronnie Brown getting a 4-yard touchdown run, followed by running back LeSean McCoy getting a 33-yard touchdown run. The Bears replied with a 38-yard field goal from Gould. Afterwards, Chicago regained the lead in the fourth quarter with Cutler connecting with wide receiver Earl Bennett on a 5-yard touchdown pass. On the Eagles possession, punter Chas Henry attempted to pass to Colt Anderson on a fake punt, which fell short." NFL Videos: Eagles botch fake punt," NFL.com (November 8, 2011). Retrieved August 13, 2012. Gould would then make a 22-yard field goal. The Eagles tried to rally, but the Bears defense would hold on for the victory.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/situationalupdates.asp?GAME_ID=189 Situational Updates Chicago Bears October 24, 2010 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20111211210523/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/situationalupdates.asp?GAME_ID=189 December 11, 2011 dead With the win, Chicago improved to 5–3. Week 10: vs. Detroit Lions #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Ten: Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears – Game summary November 13, 2011 4:15 pm. EST/3:15 pm. CST Lions 0 6 0 7 Bears 10 10 17 0 Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois 62,396 69 °F, Cloudy Pete Morelli Fox Thom Brennaman, Brian Billick, and Laura Okmin Gamebook First quarter CHI – Matt Forte 6-yard run (Robbie Gould kick), Bears 7–0,, Drive: 4 plays, 30 yards, 1:41. CHI – Robbie Gould 43-yard field goal, Bears 10–0, Drive: 8 plays, 37 yards, 3:36. Second quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 35-yard field goal, Bears 13–0, Drive: 8 plays, 35 yards, 2:44. CHI – Devin Hester 82-yard punt return (Robbie Gould kick), Bears 20–0, Drive: 1 play, 82 yards, 0:00. DET – Jason Hanson 29-yard field goal, Bears 20–3, Drive: 4 plays, 9 yards, 0:49. DET – Jason Hanson 35-yard field goal, Bears 20–6, Drive: 14 plays, 48 yards, 5:25. Third quarter CHI – Major Wright 24-yard interception return (Robbie Gould kick), Bears 27–6, Drive: 1 play 24 yards, 0:00. CHI – Charles Tillman 44-yard interception return (Robbie Gould kick), Bears 34–6, Drive: 1 play, 44 yards, 0:00. CHI – Robbie Gould 50-yard field goal, Bears 37–6, Drive: 6 plays, 47 yards, 2;33. Fourth quarter DET – Tony Scheffler 10-yard pass from Matthew Stafford (Jason Hanson kick), Bears 37–13, Drive: 8 plays, 56 yards, 2:00. Top passers DET – Matthew Stafford – 33/63, 323 yards, 1 touchdown, 4 interceptions CHI – Jay Cutler – 9/19, 123 yards Top rushers DET – Maurice Morris – 10 carries, 44 yards CHI – Matt Forte – 18 carries, 64 yards, 1 touchdown Top receivers DET – Nate Burleson – 8 receptions, 33 yards CHI – Earl Bennett – 6 receptions, 81 yards Top tacklers DET – Stephen Tulloch – 7 tackles CHI – Tim Jennings – 9 tackles, 1 assist The Bears made up for their Week 5 loss against the Lions by forcing six turnovers, and led 20–6 at halftime. Early in the third quarter, Major Wright and Charles Tillman returned interceptions of 24 and 44 yards, respectively, for touchdowns in a 1:52 span. This game was the first time the Bears returned two interceptions for touchdowns since the 1993 season, where they defeated Brett Favre's Packers 30–17.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8348 Bears force Lions to commit six turnovers Chicagobears.com August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20111118024304/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8348 November 18, 2011 dead Tillman had a career game against Lions receiver Calvin Johnson, who led the NFL in touchdown receptions at the time. Tillman allowed Johnson to catch only seven out of 19 passes that were thrown his way.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8357 Tillman put clamps on Lions receiver Chicagobears.com November 14, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20111219005344/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8357 December 19, 2011 dead During the game, Bears nickelback D. J. Moore was ejected from the game after fighting with Lions quarterback Matthew Stafford, who had pulled Moore down by his helmet during Tim Jennings' interception return. The incident would eventually lead to a brawl between the two teams, and chanting from the crowd. Chicago became 6–3 with the win. Week 11: vs. San Diego Chargers #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Eleven: San Diego Chargers at Chicago Bears – Game summary November 20, 2011 4:15 pm. EST/3:15 pm. CST Chargers 3 7 7 3 Bears 3 14 14 0 Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois 62,344 42 °F, Cloudy, winds gusting to 20 mph Jeff Triplette CBS Jim Nantz and Phil Simms Gamebook First quarter Second quarter Third quarter Fourth quarter Top passers SD – CHI – Top rushers SD – CHI – Top receivers SD – CHI – Top tacklers SD – CHI – The Chargers struck first on a Nick Novak 28-yard field goal, but Robbie Gould's 42-yard field goal and Marion Barber's 1-yard touchdown run gave the Bears a 10–3 lead. Philip Rivers would then find Antonio Gates on an 8-yard pass, but Jay Cutler and Kellen Davis would connect to give the Bears the lead in the second quarter. In the third quarter, Rivers would find Vincent Jackson to tie the game, but Cutler would then score two more touchdowns on a one-yard run, and Charles Tillman would force a Ryan Mathews fumble. Cutler would then throw a 24-yard touchdown pass to Johnny Knox to make the score 31–17. Novak would then score on a 48-yard field goal to end the game with a Bears 31–20 victory. Cutler passed for two touchdowns and ran for a third. He also completed 18 of 31 attempts for 286 yards and a 97.0 passer rating.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8375 Cutler, offense lead Bears over Chargers Chicagobears.com November 20, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120825214333/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8375 August 25, 2012 dead However, Cutler would break his thumb when he was attempting to tackle Antoine Cason early in the fourth quarter, who had intercepted his pass. The injury would end his season.https://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/7264419/chicago-bears-jay-cutler-surgery-fractured-thumb Jay Cutler to have thumb surgery Espn.go.com November 22, 2011 August 13, 2012 Despite Cutler's injury, the Bears would improve to 7–3. Week 12: at Oakland Raiders #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Twelve: Chicago Bears at Oakland Raiders – Game summary November 27, 2011 3:05 pm. CST/1:05 p.m. PST Bears 0 7 0 13 Raiders 6 6 6 7 O.co Coliseum, Oakland, California 59,244 59 °F (Partly Cloudy) Ron Winter Fox Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, and Tony Siragusa Gamebook First quarter OAK – Sebastian Janikowski 40 yd. Field Goal (OAK 3–0) OAK – Sebastian Janikowski 47 yd. Field Goal (OAK 6–0) Second quarter CHI – Johnny Knox 29 yd. pass from Caleb Hanie (Robbie Gould kick) (CHI 7–6) OAK – Sebastian Janikowski 42 yd. Field Goal (OAK 9–7) OAK – Sebastian Janikowski 19 yd. Field Goal OAK 12–7 Third quarter OAK – Sebastian Janikowski 37 yd. Field Goal (OAK 15–7) OAK – Sebastian Janikowski 44 yd. Field Goal (OAK 18–7) Fourth quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 50 yd. Field Goal (OAK 18–10) CHI – Robbie Gould 53 yd. Field Goal (OAK 18–13) OAK – Michael Bush 3 yd. run (Sebastian Janikowski kick) (OAK 25–13) CHI – Kellen Davis 9 yd. pass from Caleb Hanie (Robbie Gould kick) (OAK 25–20) Top passers CHI – Caleb Hanie – 18/36, 254 yards, 2 touchdowns, 3 interceptions OAK – Carson Palmer – 21/37, 301 yards, 1 interception Top rushers CHI – Marion Barber – 10 carries, 63 yards OAK – Michael Bush – 24 carries, 69 yards Top receivers CHI – Matt Forte – 6 receptions, 25 yards OAK – Marcel Reece – 5 receptions, 92 yards Top tacklers CHI – Lance Briggs – 6 tackles OAK – Tyvon Branch – 8 tackles In Caleb Hanie's first NFL start, he threw three interceptions in the first half, but was able to rally by completing 18 of 36 passes for 254 yards, two touchdowns and a 56.9 passer rating.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8399 Winning streak ends with loss to Raiders Chicagobears.com November 27, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120819212307/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8399 August 19, 2012 dead However, Raiders kicker Sebastian Janikowski's six field goals would put the game away.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8402 Kicker, punter boot Raiders to victory Chicagobears.com November 28, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120819211346/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8402 August 19, 2012 dead Late in the fourth quarter, with the Bears down 25–20, Hanie attempted to rally the Bears from their own 4-yard line. When the Bears reached their own 46-yard line with less than ten seconds in the game, Hanie dropped back and looked around as if he was going to throw before spiking, drawing an intentional grounding penalty. Since intentional grounding penalties have a ten-second runoff, the game ended in defeat for Chicago.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8401 Hanie shows flashes but turnovers costly Chicagobears.com November 28, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120101023528/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8401 January 1, 2012 dead The loss would put Chicago at 7–4. Week 13: vs. Kansas City Chiefs #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Thirteen: Kansas City Chiefs at Chicago Bears – Game summary December 4, 2011 1:00 pm. EST/12:00 pm. CST Chiefs 0 7 3 0 Bears 0 3 0 0 Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois 61,973 46 °F, Cloudy, wind gusts to 26 mph, temps to mid 40s Jerome Boger CBS Kevin Harlan and Solomon Wilcots Gamebook First quarter No scoring plays Second quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 32 yd. Field Goal (CHI 3–0) KC – Dexter McCluster 38 yd. pass from Tyler Palko (KC 7–3) Third quarter KC – Ryan Succop 21 yd. Field Goal (KC 10–3) Fourth quarter No scoring plays Top passers KC – Tyler Palko – 17/30, 157 yards, 1 touchdown CHI – Caleb Hanie – 11/24, 133 yards, 3 interceptions Top rushers KC – Dexter McCluster – 9 carries, 61 yards CHI – Marion Barber – 14 carries, 44 yards Top receivers KC – Steve Breaston – 5 receptions, 41 yards CHI – Johnny Knox – 5 receptions, 53 yards Top tacklers KC – Derrick Johnson – 7 tackles, 1 assist CHI – Craig Steltz – 9 tackles, 1 assist The Bears ended up losing another player for the season when they lost Matt Forté after he sprained his knee.http://www.midwestsportsfans.com/2011/12/matt-forte-injury-update-leaves-game-with-knee-injury/ Matt Forte Injury Update: Leaves Game With Knee Injury Midwestsportsfans.com December 4, 2011 August 13, 2012 The Chiefs would score the game-winning touchdown on a Hail Mary when Tyler Palko's pass was batted down by Brian Urlacher and Chris Conte, but the ball would land in Dexter McCluster's hands.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8431 Bears victimized by Hail Mary TD pass Chicagobears.com December 4, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120107201519/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8431 January 7, 2012 dead The Bears fell to 7–5 with the loss. Week 14: at Denver Broncos #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Fourteen: Chicago Bears at Denver Broncos – Game summary December 11, 2011 3:05 pm. CST/2:05 p.m. MST Bears 0 0 7 3 0 Broncos 0 0 0 10 3 Sports Authority Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado 76,487 50 °F (Sunny) Carl Cheffers Fox Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, and Tony Siragusa Gamebook First quarter No scoring plays Second quarter No scoring plays Third quarter CHI – Marion Barber 9 yd. run (Robbie Gould kick) (CHI 7–0) Fourth quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 57 yd. Field Goal (CHI 10–0) DEN – Demaryius Thomas 10 yd. pass from Tim Tebow (Matt Prater kick) (CHI 10–7) DEN – Matt Prater 59 yd. Field Goal (Tied 10–10) Overtime DEN – Matt Prater 51 yd. Field Goal (DEN 13–10) Top passers CHI – Caleb Hanie – 12/19, 115 yards DEN – Tim Tebow – 21/40, 236 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception Top rushers CHI – Marion Barber – 27 carries, 108 yards DEN – Tim Tebow – 12 carries, 49 yards Top receivers CHI – Kahlil Bell – 5 receptions, 24 yards DEN – Demaryius Thomas – 7 receptions, 78 yards, 1 touchdown Top tacklers CHI – Brian Urlacher – 10 tackles, 1 assist DEN – D.J. Williams – 9 tackles Against Tim Tebow and the Broncos, the two teams would be in a 0–0 deadlock in the first half, though the Broncos would nearly score in the second quarter on a 28-yard field goal, which would then be blocked by Julius Peppers. The Bears would then score 10 points on Marion Barber's 9-yard touchdown run, and Robbie Gould's team record-breaking 57-yard field goal, but Tebow's touchdown pass to Demaryius Thomas and Matt Prater's 59-yard field goal would tie the game. Barber would commit two costly mistakes during the late portion of the game. In the fourth quarter, Barber would run out of bounds with 1:55 left, and Barber would also fumble in overtime. The Broncos would then move downfield and kick a game-winning field goal.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8453 Bears blow 10-point lead late in OT loss Chicagobears.com December 11, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120813132719/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8453 August 13, 2012 dead The overtime loss dropped Chicago to 7–6. Week 15: vs. Seattle Seahawks #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Fifteen: Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears – Game summary December 18, 2011 1:00 pm. EST/12:00 pm. CST Seahawks 7 0 17 14 Bears 7 7 0 0 Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois 61,542 39 °F (Sunny) Ed Hochuli Fox Chris Myers, Tim Ryan and Jaime Maggio Gamebook First quarter SEA – Marshawn Lynch 2 yd. run (Steven Hauschka kick) (SEA 7–0) CHI – Israel Idonije fumble recovery in the end zone (Robbie Gould kick) (Tied 7–7) Second quarter CHI – Kahlil Bell 25 yd. pass from Caleb Hanie (Robbie Gould kick) (CHI 14–7) Third quarter SEA – Marshawn Lynch 3 yd. run (Steven Hauschka kick) (Tied 14–14) SEA – Red Bryant 20 yd. interception return (Steven Hauschka kick) (SEA 21–14) SEA – Steven Hauschka 33 yd. Field Goal (SEA 24–14) Fourth quarter SEA – Michael Robinson 2 yd. pass from Tarvaris Jackson (Steven Hauschka kick) (SEA 31–14) SEA – Brandon Browner 42 yd. interception return (Steven Hauschka kick) (SEA 38–14) Top passers SEA – Tarvaris Jackson – 19/31, 227 yards, 1 touchdown CHI – Caleb Hanie – 10/23, 111 yards, 1 touchdown, 3 interceptions Top rushers SEA – Justin Forsett – 20 carries, 42 yards CHI – Kahlil Bell – 15 carries, 65 yards Top receivers SEA – Golden Tate – 4 receptions, 61 yards CHI – Kahlil Bell – 5 receptions, 43 yards Top tacklers SEA – K.J. Wright – 8 tackles CHI – Craig Steltz – 5 tackles, 3 assists The Bears received a scare in the Seahawks game when wide receiver Johnny Knox bent his back awkwardly after taking a hit on Seahawk's defensive end Anthony Hargrove while trying to recover his own fumble. Knox remained down for nearly ten minutes leaving Bears fans in shock.https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2011/12/18/johnny-knox-injury-bears-chicago-seahawks-nfl_n_1156514.html Johnny Knox Injury: Bears WR Suffers Back Injury, Is Carted Off After Brutal Hit (VIDEO) Huffingtonpost.com December 18, 2011 August 13, 2012 Chris Greenberg The major hit ended the receiver's season, and he was placed on injured reserve. In the game, the Bears would lead 14–7 in the first half, but would end in disaster when they were outscored 31–0 in the second half including two defensive touchdowns. First, Hanie threw a pass that was intercepted by the Seahawks Red Bryant and he returned it 20 yards for a touchdown. The second one which Hanie threw was picked off by Brandon Browner and he returned it 42 yards for a touchdown. Hanie would then be benched late in the game and replaced by Josh McCown.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8483 Bears unravel in second half of loss Chicagobears.com December 18, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120819211605/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8483 August 19, 2012 dead The loss gave the Bears a .500 winning percentage and a 7–7 record. Week 16: at Green Bay Packers (Christmas Day) #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Sixteen: Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers – Game summary December 25, 2011 (Christmas Day) 8:20 pm. EST/7:20 pm. CST Bears 0 3 7 11 Packers 7 7 14 7 Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin 70,574 37 °F (Cloudy) John Parry NBC Al Michaels, Cris Collinsworth, and Michele Tafoya Gamebook First quarter GB – Jermichael Finley 2 yd. pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby kick) (GB 7–0) Second quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 35 yd. Field Goal (GB 7–3) GB – James Jones 2 yd. pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby kick)(GB 14–3) Third quarter CHI – Edwin Williams fumble recovery in the end zone (Robbie Gould kick)(GB 14–10) GB – Jordy Nelson 55 yd. pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby kick) (GB 21–10) GB – James Jones 7 yd. pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby kick) (GB 28–10) Fourth quarter GB – Jordy Nelson 2 yd. pass from Aaron Rodgers (Mason Crosby kick) (GB 35–10) CHI – Kellen Davis 1 yd. pass from Josh McCown (Josh McCown run)(GB 35–18) CHI – Robbie Gould 30 yd. Field Goal (GB 35–21) Top passers CHI – Josh McCown – 19/28, 242 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT GB – Aaron Rodgers – 21/29, 283 yards, 5 TD Top rushers CHI – Kahlil Bell – 23 rushes, 121 yards GB – Ryan Grant – 8 rushes, 44 yards Top receivers CHI – Roy Williams – 6 receptions, 81 yards GB – Jordy Nelson – 6 receptions, 115 yards, 2 TD Top tacklers CHI – Craig Steltz – 5 tackles GB – Desmond Bishop – 9 tackles After backup quarterback Caleb Hanie showing poor performance in his starting of 4 games that were all losses, the Bears decided to start third-string quarterback Josh McCown who was recently signed after being waived by the 49ers.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8495 McCown tabbed to start in Green Bay Chicagobears.com August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120107172451/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8495 January 7, 2012 dead McCown would complete 19 of 28 passes for 242 yards with one touchdown, two interceptions and a 76.8 passer rating, and wasn't sacked. He also rushed for 38 yards on eight carries. Kahlil Bell, filling in for Forte and Barber, would record 121 yards on 23 carries and caught four passes for 38 yards.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8506 Bell, McCown give offense a boost Chicagobears.com December 26, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120108000306/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8506 January 8, 2012 dead The Packers would eliminate the Bears from playoff contention with a score of 35–21, and the Bears would fall to 7–8.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8504 Loss to Pack ends Bears' playoff hopes Chicagobears.com December 25, 2011 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120819212318/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8504 August 19, 2012 dead Week 17: at Minnesota Vikings #eee background-color:#03182f; color:#fff; border:2px solid #df6108; text-align:center; autocollapse Week Seventeen: Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings – Game summary January 1, 2012 1:00 pm. EST/12:00 pm. CST Bears 0 14 0 3 Vikings 10 3 0 0 Mall of America Field at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, Minneapolis, Minnesota 62,867 Played indoors (dome stadium) Mike Carey Fox Kenny Albert, Daryl Johnston, Tony Siragusa Gamebook First quarter MIN – Ryan Longwell 26 yd. Field Goal (MIN 3–0) MIN – Percy Havin 5 yd. run (Ryan Longwell kick) (MIN 10–0) Second quarter CHI – Roy Williams 22 yd. pass from Josh McCown (Robbie Gould kick) (MIN 10–7) CHI – Charles Tillman 22 yd. interception return (Robbie Gould kick) (CHI 14–10) MIN – Ryan Longwell 26 yd. Field Goal (CHI 14–13) Third quarter No scoring plays Fourth quarter CHI – Robbie Gould 27 yd. Field Goal (CHI 17–13) Top passers CHI – Josh McCown – 15/25, 160 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception MIN – Joe Webb 17/32, 200 yards, 2 interceptions Top rushers CHI – Kahlil Bell – 17 carries, 54 yards MIN – Toby Gerhart – 15 carries, 67 yards Top receivers CHI – Kahlil Bell – 5 receptions, 28 yards MIN – Percy Harvin – 10 receptions, 115 yards Top tacklers CHI – Brian Urlacher – 7 tackles, 3 assists MIN – Chad Greenway – 6 tackles, 2 assists The Bears finally snapped their five-game losing streak on New Year's Day by beating the Vikings 17–13. The Bears also suffered through another devastating injury when linebacker Brian Urlacher sprained his left MCL after colliding into safety Major Wright.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8532 Urlacher sprains left MCL late in victory Chicagobears.com January 1, 2012 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120127001140/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8532 January 27, 2012 dead Vikings defensive end Jared Allen came close to breaking Michael Strahan's record for most sacks in a season, sacking Josh McCown 3½ times, and was ½ sacks away from breaking the record, but McCown was able to prevent Allen from breaking the record.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8533 McCown solid again in his second start Chicagobears.com January 1, 2012 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120609224431/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8533 June 9, 2012 dead The Vikings scored on first on Ryan Longwell's 26-yard field goal and Percy Harvin's touchdown run, both stemming from fumbles by Earl Bennett and Kahlil Bell. However, the Bears would then score on McCown's 22-yard pass to Roy Williams and Charles Tillman's interception return for a touchdown after intercepting Christian Ponder. After Julius Peppers blocked Longwell's field goal, Cedric Griffin would intercept McCown, but the Vikings would then botch the snap on a field goal attempt. D. J. Moore would then close the game out by intercepting Joe Webb, ending the Bears season at 8–8.http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8531 Bears finish season with comeback win Chicagobears.com January 1, 2012 August 13, 2012 https://web.archive.org/web/20120616050057/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/NewsStory.asp?story_id=8531 June 16, 2012 dead Statistical leaders Regular season Player(s) Value NFL Rank NFC Rank Passing yards Jay Cutler 2,319 yards 19th 9th Passing touchdowns Jay Cutler 13 TDs T-15th T-7th Rushing yards Matt Forte 985 yards 3rd 2nd Rushing touchdowns Marion Barber 5 TDs T-13th 7th Receiving yards Johnny Knox 622 yards 30th 17th Receiving touchdowns Kellen Davis 4 TDs T-32nd T-17th Points Robbie Gould 100 T-5th T-4th Kickoff Return Yards Devin Hester 519 yards 16th 9th Punt return Yards Devin Hester 368 yards 4th 2nd Tackles Lance Briggs 80 T-18th T-11th Sacks Julius Peppers 8.0 T-11th T-6th Interceptions Brian UrlacherD.J. MooreMajor WrightCorey Graham 3 INTs T-18th T-11th stats are updated through the end of Week 12.http://www.nfl.com/stats/player NFL Stats: Players NFL.com December 2, 2011 Statistical league rankings Total Offense (YPG): 339.0 (16th) Passing (YPG): 217.0 (20th) Rushing (YPG): 121.8 (10th) Points (PPG): 26.2 (6th) Total Defense (YPG): 369.1 (23rd) Passing (YPG): 270.5 (30th) Rushing (YPG): 98.6 (8th) Points (PPG): 21.2 (16th) Stats will be added after Week 12.http://www.nfl.com/stats/player NFL Stats: Teams NFL.com December 2, 2011 Awards and records Awards Weekly awards MLB Brian Urlacher was named NFC Defensive player of the week for games played during Week 1.https://www.espn.com/chicago/nfl/story/_/id/6969668/chicago-bears-brian-urlacher-named-nfc-defensive-player-week Brian Urlacher honored September 14, 2011 ESPNChicago.com September 17, 2011 RB Matt Forte was named FedEx Ground Player of the Week(Running Backs)for games played during Week 4.http://www.nfl.com/voting/players-air-and-ground/2011/reg/25 FedEx Air and Ground Players of the Week NFL.com October 17, 2011 WR Devin Hester was named NFC Special Teams player of the week for games played during Week 4.Josh Alper http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/10/05/devin-hester-named-nfc-special-teamer-of-the-week-for-10th-time/ Devin Hester named NFC special teamer of the week for 10th time Profootballtalk.com October 5, 2011 October 26, 2011 WR Devin Hester was named NFC Special Teams player of the week for games played during Week 6.Michael David Smith Michael David Smith http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/10/19/bradshaw-coleman-hester-named-nfc-players-of-the-week/ Bradshaw, Coleman, Hester named NFC players of the week Profootballtalk.com October 19, 2011 October 26, 2011 OLB Lance Briggs was named NFC Defensive player of the week for games played during Week 7.Michael David Smith Michael David Smith http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/10/26/brees-briggs-crosby-named-nfc-players-of-the-week/ Brees, Briggs, Crosby named NFC players of the week Profootballtalk.com October 26, 2011 October 26, 2011 WR Devin Hester was named NFC Special Teams player of the week for games played during Week 10.Michael Smith http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2011/11/16/fitzgerald-harper-hester-named-nfc-players-of-the-week/ Fitzgerald, Harper, Hester named NFC players of the week Profootballtalk.com November 16, 2011 November 26, 2011 Monthly awards WR Devin Hester was named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Month for games played during the month of October.Nate Davis http://content.usatoday.com/communities/thehuddle/post/2011/11/packers-qb-aaron-rodgers-named-nfcs-offensive-player-of-the-month--again/1 Rodgers named NFC's offensive player of the month ... again usatoday.com November 3, 2011 November 3, 2011 DE Julius Peppers was named the NFC Defensive Player of the Month for games played during the month of November.Nate Davis http://content.usatoday.com/communities/thehuddle/post/2011/12/packers-qb-aaron-rodgers-named-nfc-offensive-player-of-the-month--again-leads-pro-bowl-voting/1 Rodgers player of the month ... again, leads Pro Bowl voting usatoday.com December 1, 2011 December 1, 2011 Annual awards Records Individual Career WR Devin Hester set the Bears and NFL record for Most career punt returns for touchdowns with 11 on his 69-yard punt return touchdown during Week 4 against Carolina Panthers at Soldier Field. Footnotes References 30em Chicago Category:Chicago Bears seasons Bear Category:2011 in Chicago Category:2011 in Illinois