Bear Download — A Chicago Bears podcast: Recent Episodes
Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs
Chicago Bears coach Matt Nagy sits down — virtually, of course — for a conversation with Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs. They cover a number of topics in this exclusive interview, starting with how Nagy plans to set up his offense without a starting quarterback in place. From there they move on to receiver Allen Robinson’s contract situation, why Nagy is so high on receiver Darnell Mooney and what new defensive coordinator Sean Desai brings to the table. By the way, Nagy is well-aware of the heightened urgency heading into his fourth season at the helm: “We welcome the challenge.”
The NFL’s new league year begins March 17. Where do the Chicago Bears find themselves with free agency and the draft looming? Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs discuss the team’s most pressing needs — starting with quarterback. Mitch Trubisky won’t be back. Nick Foles likely will be, but the Bears probably prefer to use him as a backup. Ryan Pace says the team has a number of options, but are any worthwhile? Trading for Deshaun Watson on Russell Wilson would be no-brainers if their current teams are willing, but chances are the Bears will have to settle for a lower-tier QB. The Bears also could stand to upgrade their receiving corps. That’s the case even if they do keep Allen Robinson. The good news for those making decisions at Halas Hall: With the salary cap expected to be low, signing recognizable names for deals that cost less than they might have in other years is well within the realm of possibility.
Welcome to a rare playoff edition of the Bear Download podcast! Fans probably feel much different about these 8-8 Chicago Bears than the 12-4 team from two seasons ago. Nevertheless, the Bears will look to make the most of their gift from the football gods. Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs take a look at what went wrong (a lot) as well as what went right (a few things) in Week 17 against the Green Bay Packers. The good news for the Bears is they might match up better against the Saints than they did against the Pack, as Drew Brees hasn’t been the same since breaking several ribs earlier this season, and Alvin Kamara’s availability is in question after he recently tested positive for COVID-19. Ultimately, how the Bears fare might hinge on their defense, as game-changing plays have been absent for most of this season. And can they regroup if they have to play without linebacker Roquan Smith? Dan and Brad cover all that and more.
Bears-Packers. Week 17. Soldier Field. A shot at the playoffs on the line. It doesn't get any better than that, and Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs are here to preview all the action. They start with the player who often stands in the Bears' way — Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers — before discussing what Davante Adams brings to Green Bay's offense. They look at keys to success in what could be Mitch Trubisky's final game in Chicago as Bears quarterback.
The Chicago Bears enter Week 17 of the NFL season with everything to play for, and Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs are back to look at what's at stake after a victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. They break down how the Bears look heading into a big showdown with the Green Bay Packers and discuss — and rank — Mitch Trubisky’s 50 games a starter heading into Sunday’s game.
The Bears are on a winning streak! And still in the playoff hunt! Dan and Brad break down the Week 15 win over the Vikings, in which the offense with Mitch Trubisky, David Montgomery & Co. were clicking on all cylinders and the defense … needs to do more. Up next: A trip to sunny Florida against the Jaguars — and with a win, a potentially meaningful Week 17 home date vs. the Packers.
The Chicago Bears take on the Minnesota Vikings with — somehow — a possible playoff spot on the line, and Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs are here to preview the game. They start with Mitch Trubisky's performances the last few weeks and look at changes made to the offense during that span. They then go into a discussion of Trubisky's future and whether he will be with the team next season before looking at what awaits the Bears in Minneapolis.
Dan and Brad talk about the Chicago Bears’ dominant Week 14 win over the Houston Texans that snapped a 6-game losing streak. And now there’s … playoff chances? General hope for the offense? What’s next for Mitch Trubisky and the offense — and will the win that got them to 6-7 change endings that seemed inevitable?
The Chicago Bears season has gone from bad to worse after an embarrassing loss to the Detroit Lions at Soldier Field, and Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs break down everything that went wrong in Week 13. They look at the struggles of the defense — long this team's strength — and question if the unit is shot or just in need of a break. They transition to discuss this weekend's opponent in the Houston Texans and, yes, revisit that fateful 2017 draft that resulted in taking Mitch Trubisky instead of Deshaun Watson. Finally, they wrap up the show by forecasting where the Bears are as an organization heading into the home stretch of the season.
The Chicago Bears welcome the Detroit Lions to Soldier Field with a chance to snap their five-game skid, and Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs are here to preview Sunday’s matchup. They look at Mitch Trubisky’s past success against the Lions and assess how the Bears’ upcoming schedule can serve as an evaluation period for an offensive unit that has struggled all season. Finally, Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press joins the show to discuss the changes in the Lion organization, including the firings of GM Bob Quinn and coach Matt Patricia.
The Chicago Bears' loss to the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night was about as ugly as it gets, and Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs break it all down. They discuss the poor effort by the defense — and Matt Nagy's criticism of the unit — before moving on to Mitch Trubisky's struggles in his first game since being benched during Week 3. The two look at the upcoming schedule and discuss if Nagy and GM Ryan Pace are on the hot seat.
The move is officially official: Mitch Trubisky will be the starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears against the Green Bay Packers, and Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs are here to break it down on the Bear Download podcast. The two look at the events that led to the decision, what are reasonable expectations for Trubisky and a struggling offense and what the future holds for the QB and Nick Foles.
The Chicago Bears need answers — and fast. Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs do their best to offer some on this episode of the Bear Download podcast. Unfortunately for the Bears, their offensive woes are less of a slump and more of an identity. And coach Matt Nagy is struggling for explanations; just listen to his recent press conferences. So how can the Bears awaken their dormant running game? Brad is convinced that if quarterback Mitch Trubisky is healthy, it’s him and not Nick Foles who gives them the best chance to find success in this six-week sprint against several bad teams. The two games against the Green Bay Packers, on the other hand, represent two major obstacles in the Bears’ quest to reach the postseason. Getting more out of their best offensive player, receiver Allen Robinson, can only help — and he’s putting his faith in the coaching staff.
Once 5-1, the Chicago Bears are now 5-4 and a home underdog against the Minnesota Vikings on Monday. How did they get here, and how can they right the ship? Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs start by breaking down the offense, specifically the offensive line. Also, putting themselves in playoff contention might require the Bears to use their offense to set up the defense and for coach Matt Nagy to dial back his aggressiveness. Turning to the defense, yes, the news is better. However, the unit isn’t making as many splash plays as it once did. Dan and Brad wrap up by naming players who have been impressive despite the Bears’ free-fall — and one of those players happens to be on special teams.
After a miserable showing on offense by the Chicago Bears against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 7, Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs try to make sense of it all before the Week 8 matchup against the New Orleans Saints. They compare this season's offensive woes to last year's struggles, discuss Matt Nagy's play calling and even explore the big question: Will Mitch Trubisky play again this season?
The Chicago Bears are 5-1 — but are they legit? And what are we to make of their start to the season? Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs break down the victory against the Carolina Panthers and look ahead to the challenge that awaits Monday night against the Los Angeles Rams on the latest episode of the Bear Download podcast.
Can the Chicago Bears fix their offensive woes heading into Week 6 on the road against the Carolina Panthers? Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs break it all down.
It’s a short week for the Chicago Bears coming off a frustrating loss to the Indianapolis Colts, and next up are Tom Brady and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Thursday night matchup puts the Bears in the national spotlight, and Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs dive into how Matt Nagy’s team can make that a good thing (besides Nick Foles’ success against Brady in a certain Super Bowl). For starters, the Bears must ignite their offense — starting with the running game — in some way, shape or form. As Dan and Brad run through the Bears' big names on the offensive side of the ball, only Allen Robinson gets high marks. And as well as the defense has played overall the past few years, the dearth of sacks and takeaways lately does not bode well (paging Khalil Mack). Finally, Dan has plenty of stats to share — as well as a spot-on John Fox impression — as they wrap up their Week 5 preview.
The Bears have a new starting quarterback, and Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs waste no time breaking down what the change means to the offense. If the second half of the win over Atlanta is any indication, Foles should be able to run the offense more smoothly, get the ball out more quickly and allow the Bears to run a more complex scheme. As for the defense, figure extra time will be spent in meetings this week to address mistakes made against the Falcons (cough, shoddy tackling, cough). Good thing for the Bears Akiem Hicks had a monster game, taking advantage of Atlanta zeroing in on Khalil Mack and Robert Quinn. Dan and Brad also look ahead to what should be a telling six-game stretch before crowning Foles’ biggest passes from his Bears debut.
The Bears are 2-0, which is a good kind of strange for the franchise — unlike having to play without fans. Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs explore how the Bears got here without being all that outstanding overall. It’s not just about quarterback Mitch Trubisky’s inconsistency, either — the defense hasn’t been as stout as the team would like. So what’s different? Dan and Brad explain why they’re impressed with the running game before previewing Sunday’s matchup at Atlanta. Finally, in Crown ‘Em, they give their way-too-early Super Bowl matchups by naming their picks for the best team in each conference. (Ahem, they agree on the NFC but differ on the AFC.)
Instead of focusing on the Chicago Bears' 27-23 comeback victory over the Detroit Lions, Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs give context to wide receiver Allen Robinson's surprise inquiry about a possible trade as contract talks appear to stall. They break down the situation and what it means for Robinson and the team going forward. They then transition to talking about the Bears' Week 1 performance as they prepare for the New York Giants in Week 2.
Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs preview the Chicago Bears' Week 1 game against the Lions in Detroit, starting with Matt Nagy's decision to go with Mitch Trubisky over Nick Foles at quarterback. They also discuss how good the defense can be this season, look at the overall concerns the team faces and finish by crowning X-factor players.
The Bears are back at practice and things are, well, confusing at Halas Hall. Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs try to make sense of it all. Much of the strangeness resulted from nine false positive COVID-19 tests, which started in the wee hours Sunday and carried through the day’s rescheduled practice. The good news is the Bears did not have a coronavirus outbreak. The bad news is this won’t be the end of the detours on that front. On the field, the quarterback competition is in full swing between Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles — and so far neither is lighting it up. Coach Matt Nagy is among those who seems underwhelmed. Then there’s the rotating group of kickers. Will the Bears need Cairo Santos on the roster simply to back up Eddy Pineiro? Speaking of confusion, Nagy is not doing a great job explaining the situation. Injuries to star players also won’t help, though Nagy insists there’s nothing to worry about as far as two star players are concerned. And those are just some of the issues the Bears face with only a few weeks until their season opener.
Dan and Brad set the scene for the Bears’ first padded practices of training camp in 2020 by asking — and answering — 5 key questions, including Allen Robinson’s contract status and reasons for optimism. Not answered: Will Dan wear his face shield to Halas Hall daily?
The NFL finally made it — to training camp. How the league makes it to Week 1, much less the Super Bowl, amid the COVID-19 pandemic is a complicated question. But Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs lay out the most daunting issues facing the voluminous operation. Will larger meeting rooms and getting creative in between actual football practice be enough to avoid the issues that have befallen Major League Baseball? The NFL figures to be on defense until February. Speaking of defense, the Bears will have to replace lineman Eddie Goldman, who has opted out of the season because of coronavirus concerns. The Bears also have holes to fill at tight end, though their depth at that position is more substantial. Next, Dan and Brad dive into Brad’s mailbag, specifically on how best to evaluate general manager Ryan Pace — which might not be all that complicated. The same cannot be said for the Bears’ quarterback competition, though Brad and Dan think they know who will come out on top. Finally, Brad crowns Chargers defensive end Joey Bosa and his enormous contract extension — and how Khalil Mack looks more impressive because of it.
Although the Bears halted their offseason program weeks ago, there’s still plenty for Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs to discuss. They sift through what they learned from Bears coaches, especially the ones hired fairly recently. You’ll have to excuse the coaches if they’ve been a bit vague — there’s only so much they can learn via Zoom call. Dan and Brad — and Bears fans, no doubt — can’t wait to find out if there really is an open competition at quarterback or if Mitch Trubisky has had his shot. And can modest improvements by each unit on the offense lead to a rapid ascension overall? (Dan says yes). Next they dip into Brad’s mailbag, centering on running backs (with a little kicker talk thrown in). Finally, they touch on the origins of Dan’s desk-slamming bit before crowning … sports! Just for attempting to return to competition, really. That said, safety is still paramount, and it remains to be seen what the NFL does when it is truly challenged by the coronavirus pandemic.
Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs are joined by colleague Colleen Kane to discuss and process the emotional and personal talks with Bears players Danny Trevathan, Allen Robinson and Akiem Hicks and coach Matt Nagy this week. And later, after the 1st week of OTAs, breaking down what Nagy had to say about the QB competition — once they are allowed back on the field — and what the Bears still need to improve upon.
Dan Wiederer doesn’t have Brad Biggs with him on this edition of Bear Download, so he’s brought reinforcements: Jeff Dickerson of ESPN Chicago and Dionne Miler of ABC-7. First, Dan and Jeff discuss who has the edge in the team’s quarterback battle — if there’s an edge to be had. Next, they get into the difficulties the NFL faces in returning to the field in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, including whether players can breathe through masks suitable for Cobra Commander (“G.I. Joe” reference!). Dionne jumps on with Dan from there, and they tackle Ryan Pace’s string of draft do-overs and whether Matt Nagy — or any coach, for that matter — can be effective through Zoom. Finally, while trying not to wake Dan’s daughter during nap time, they crown none other than Michael Jordan. The joyride of ESPN’s “The Last Dance” has come to an end, and it makes Dan and Dionne wistful for the energy a winner brings to Chicago — especially on the gridiron.
Schedule alert! Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs can’t just sit around and NOT discuss how it all lines up for the Bears in 2020 — even if there’s a possibility it gets thrown into upheaval by the coronavirus pandemic. For now, the duo breaks down the schedule from (seemingly soft) start to (brutal-on-paper) finish. Dan and Brad lay out the games they’re most looking forward to, which stretch will test the Bears most, which opponent might throw the team for a loop and which road trips hold the most potential for excitement. Stick around for adventures in Jacksonville — Brad’s recall ability will astound you!
With Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs’ boat party on hold (they want to get out of the house, too!) and no Bears minicamp in sight, they forge ahead with another shelter-in-place edition of the Bear Download podcast. First up: discussing whether the team got better at each offensive position group — your poll answers included! Dan and Brad then transition to That’s Just Stupid, in which they hopefully put to rest the discussion of whether the Bears should have picked up quarterback Mitch Trubisky’s fifth-year option. Then it’s on to evaluations of the defense and special teams — with very little kicker talk, we promise — before crowning the NFL for moving forward with its schedule release. Speaking of which, will the Rams’ new stadium be ready to host the Bears and other opponents, and will reporters even be allowed to attend road games for the teams they cover? Stay tuned in the weeks ahead.
The 2020 NFL draft is in the books, which means Dan Wiederer can stop running all over his house while the Bears make their picks, and Brad Biggs is free of a certain analyst who makes him scratch his head. GM Ryan Pace emerged with seven selections, and Dan and Brad dive into analysis on the latest Bear Download podcast. Much of the spotlight shines on the Bears’ second-round picks, tight end Cole Kmet and cornerback Jaylon Johnson — two positions that desperately needed upgrades. As for whether Pace did enough at wide receiver, that’s debatable. In That’s Just Stupid, Dan and Brad tackle the Packers’ decision to draft QB Jordan Love in the first round. For the record, they think it’s a smart move; they’re just not sure why so few see the potential upside. Also, it appears Brad likes saying “Gutekunst,” the last name of Green Bay’s general manager. The duo closes by assessing Mitch Trubisky’s fifth-year option (seems the Bears’ mind is made up, yes?) and by crowning the NFL for putting on a glitch-free draft.
Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs are — like the rest of the NFL — working from home in preparation for the 2020 draft. They preview the upcoming draft from a Bears perspective and address the positions most in need of an upgrade (cornerbacks, anyone?). They dig through general manager Ryan Pace's draft history and the decision to release Trey Burton before opening up Brad's mailbag.
The Bears have been busy this offseason. Maybe not Khalil Mack trade-busy, but busy nonetheless. That gives Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs plenty to discuss — while social distancing, of course — on the Bear Download podcast. They waste no time assessing the “open competition” at quarterback, though Brad believes all signs point to Nick Foles as the starter. The Bears will look to bolster their offense via the draft, of course, but even that will be completely different because of the coronavirus. The duo next look for reasons for optimism as they dive into Brad’s mailbag before breaking down all things Jimmy Graham with Jim Owczarski of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. (Ahem, Bears fans might not want to set the bar too high for the tight end.) Finally, Dan and Brad crown the NFL and its teams for expanding the playoffs — although that likely means the Bears are under more pressure in the near future.
Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs are working from home — and socially distancing — as the NFL goes ahead with free agency despite the further outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic. The guys discuss the Bears' biggest move — acquiring quarterback Nick Foles — and what that means for Mitch Trubisky and the offense. They break down GM Ryan Pace's other moves, including Leonard Floyd's departure and Robert Quinn's signing, a surprise move for Jimmy Graham and where else the Bears need to improve. Finally, they crown the Buccaneers for pulling off the signing of a certain free-agent QB.
Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs look ahead to free agency and what the Bears and general manager Ryan Pace have in store. They begin with discussing the impending decision regarding Leonard Floyd, talk about positions to improve and the need for Pace to get the offseason right. Brad opens up his mailbag to discuss Mitch Trubisky's fifth-year option before they break down the shopping spree at quarterback that will happen across the NFL this offseason. They finish by crowning ... the Eagles?
Bears coach Matt Nagy joins the show as Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs hit the road for the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis. Nagy discusses the team's struggles last season, the new coaches on staff, the backup quarterback search and areas Mitch Trubisky needs to improve. Dan and Brad then discuss their conversation with Nagy and look at the run game, what tight ends might be available in the draft and which positions are up for grabs on the defense.
The NFL combine is less than a week away and Dan Wiederer and Brad Biggs break down what to expect from the event. They take a long look at the Bears quarterback situation and question the notion a marquee free agent — say, Tom Brady or Philip Rivers — would be willing to join the team even if the Bears decide Mitch Trubisky is no longer the starter. They discuss other positions of need, Brad opens up his mailbag in a new segment and the two crown a former Bears defensive coordinator.
Super Bowl LIV is in the books, and Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes left quite an impression — again. Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer gather in a hotel lobby, of all places, and break down the big game and how Mahomes' brilliance has the Chiefs in the NFL driver's seat. Naturally, Rich and Dan segue into the Bears' plans with Mitch Trubisky and the questions about his ability to handle everything asked of him. Then they mash up this episode's Crown 'Em and That's Just Stupid segments as Rich drops some personal news. And that leads to a nostalgic journey through the duo's last seven seasons covering the Bears.
Rich and Dan break down a newsy offseason week, starting with Matt Nagy's changes to his offensive coaching staff. They break down the arrivals of coordinator Bill Lazor, quarterbacks coach John DeFilippo and the promotion of passing game coordinator Dave Ragone. They wonder how all the new coaches' responsibilities will fit together and how the new group will affect the 2020 offense. They question Anthony Davis' attire and rooting interest on the Lambeau Field sideline for the divisional round of the playoffs. They wax nostalgic about Bourbonnais (with passing mention to Dan's golf game) and think aloud about public access to training camp at Halas Hall. They crown the Bears newest Hall of Famers and look ahead to Sunday's conference title games.
Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer are going strong with the Bears’ season in the rear-view mirror, and they dive into the team’s kicker situation to sort out what the team accomplished with the search that led to Eddy Pineiro’s encouraging — if not convincing — 2019. Then they pivot, replacing "y" with “ie,” to examine the Bears’ decision to make Eddie Jackson the NFL’s highest paid safety. In That’s Just Stupid, they welcome Patriots coach Bill Belichick back to the podcast in honorary fly-swatter form — complete with sound bite! Next, Rich and Dan break down the NFL’s four divisional-round playoff games through navy and orange lenses. Finally, in Crown ‘Em, they pick this weekend’s postseason winners straight up and against the spread.
After the Bears' disappointing 2019 season — a “regression,” as GM Ryan Pace called it — Chairman George McCaskey, President Ted Phillips, coach Matt Nagy and Pace offered their evaluations. Some were more forthcoming with details than others. Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer dive into where the Bears go from here. (Get ready for LOTS of talk about the offense’s struggles.) After Dan’s lightning-fast recap of the Week 17 win over the Vikings and some cracking 3-word reviews, they examine five questions at the heart of the Bears’ plight: How close are they to winning a Super Bowl? How does Pace’s assessment of quarterback Mitch Trubisky account for his 2020 job security? What’s next for Trubisky as he remains the starter? What should we make of Pace’s public evaluation of Nagy? And how meaningful might changes to Nagy’s staff be? Rich and Dan also mix in their New Year’s resolutions, dissect Dan’s gross metaphor about hair in risotto and make predictions for the first weekend of playoff games.
Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer are in the Halas Hall coat closet to preview the meaningless finale against the Vikings. They marvel at the anticlimactic Week 17 matchup before turning their attention to the crucial conversations awaiting general manager Ryan Pace and coach Matt Nagy next week. They look ahead to what Pace and Nagy must consider in their postseason evaluation of the offense and, specifically, quarterback Mitch Trubisky. Rich self-reports a bratty, particular approach about Christmas gifts in "That's Just Stupid." They break down Dan's three keys to a Bears victory in Minneapolis, spotlighting the takeaways disparity between the two teams. They offer their final score predictions and crown the 2019 Bears Media Good Guy.
The morning after the Bears were whipped 26-3 by the Chiefs, Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer sift through the wreckage. They recap one of the more depressing nights at Soldier Field in recent memory, including how the Bears' sloppiness and Chiefs' offensive prowess helped mark the gap between the Bears and a legitimate Super Bowl contender. They take stock of the lopsided Mitch Trubisky-Patrick Mahomes matchup and question folks who insist on lowering the bar for the Bears quarterback. They also sympathize with Trubisky and coach Matt Nagy on the heels of a performance that encapsulates their interconnected struggles, and quickly spotlight a defense that failed to take the ball away again. The finish by sharing Rich’s favorite 3-word reviews, remembering Dan’s birthday and dropping a Christmas earworm.
The eliminated Bears have vowed to sprint through the finish line, and that's exactly what Rich and Dan are doing as well. From the Halas Hall coat closet, they preview Sunday night's game against the Chiefs. They examine how the Chiefs' partnership of coach Andy Reid and MVP quarterback Patrick Mahomes contextualizes the Bears' offensive struggles — from unproven coach Matt Nagy to inconsistent quarterback Mitch Trubisky and an inferior supporting cast. They spotlight the Bears' lack of long touchdowns ahead of the Chiefs' visit, knowing the Chiefs lead the NFL in touchdowns from their side of midfield since 2018 began. They look at Saints quarterback Drew Brees' all-time touchdown pass record and match that with the Bears best quarterbacks of all-time. They analyze Dan's three keys to a Bears victory, including a fast start and the matchup problem Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce presents. They offer their final score predictions, wonder about Akiem Hicks' iffy status and look at the three Bears Pro Bowlers.
The Bears are officially out of the playoff hunt after losing to the Packers 21-13 on Sunday. Rich and Dan are at Lambeau Field to break down the offense’s return to reality. They discuss another one-touchdown performance and the offense’s inconsistency as a whole. They analyze Mitch Trubisky’s latest uneven performance as Dan worries that he could be leading the Bears to QB purgatory. They put a stamp on a deeply disappointing decade for the Bears — especially compared with the Packers’ success. Switching to the defense, they identify how it came up short despite a respectable showing against Aaron Rodgers. They share their Rich’s favorite three-word reviews from the audience and, finally, make fun of Dan’s lack of toughness in the cold Wisconsin air.
The Bears are riding a three-game winning streak headed into Sunday’s game against the Packers. Is a playoff miracle possible? Rich and Dan take a quick jaunt down memory lane. Specifically, they compare the 2019 Bears to the 2012 Redskins and Vikings, two teams that staged improbable runs to reach the postseason. Next, they examine how the Bears have managed to stay afloat and what they can take from their recent surge even if they miss the playoffs. In That’s Just Stupid, they plead for perspective — the season’s still a marathon, after all. They break down Dan’s three keys for a Bears victory over the Packers, including red-zone offense and tapping into the Bears’ star power. They close by sharing their score predictions (they’re on the same page, FYI) and by crowning a young player who has won over a certain skeptic (cough, Rich, cough).
The Bears beat the Cowboys 31-24 on Thursday night and now have a winning record for the first time in 8 weeks. Rich and Dan slept a few hours before rallying for their review Friday morning. They examine a team that didn't crumble after a 4-game losing streak, a team that seems to thrive playing from behind, or at least out from under the weight of expectations. They dissect quarterback Mitch Trubisky's latest exceptional game, specifically how his legs brought his play to life in a way previously unseen this season. They marvel at the Power of Now and what the Bears can accomplish with it. They tip their caps to a defense that continues to be playoff-caliber as top contributors fall out due to injuries. And they end with a peek at the uphill road ahead, give out their game balls and read their favorite 3-word reviews from the audience.
The Bears enter December "in the hunt," and Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer try to figure out what that means. They preview Thursday night's game against the Cowboys by setting the stage for a daunting four-game run that features matchups against three first-place teams and another occupying a wild-card spot. They identify Bears players they'll closely watch over the final four weeks, including Roquan Smith, Anthony Miller and Mitch Trubisky. They look ahead to Akiem Hicks' potential return in Week 15 before zeroing in on the Cowboys. They explore the circus around Cowboys coach Jason Garrett's status and break down Dan's three keys to victory. They end by making their score predictions and award this week's crown.
The Bears beat the Lions 24-20 on Thursday, and Rich and Dan dig in from Ford Field. First up: Mitch Trubisky’s first late-fourth-quarter, winning touchdown drive and the seeds it plants for his future. Of course, that drive goes hand in hand with the continued evolution of Anthony “Mr. Clutch” Miller. Sure, the strong performances came against David Blough (er, Jeff Bluhhh?) and the lowly Lions, but it’s all an upgrade from the mopey wins against the Lions and Giants earlier in November. Turning to the defense, Rich and Dan spotlight the unit’s refusal to mail it in despite the offense underperforming earlier this season. Finally, they look ahead to a daunting December schedule before handing out game balls (two on offense!) and reading their favorite three-word reviews from the audience. Happy Thanksgiving, folks!
The Bears visit the Lions on Thanksgiving, and Rich and Dan are on a fast turnaround of their own to preview the game. From amid the hangers in the Halas Hall coat closet (look out, Rich!), they examine Mitch Trubisky's partnership with Matt Nagy, specifically whether the Bears can call plays — uptempo or otherwise — that cater to the QB’s strengths. In That’s Just Stupid, they revisit the comedy of errors that resulted in the missed 48-yard extra point (would a 7-yard 2-point conversion attempt have been better?) against the Giants. They go through Dan's three keys to a win, including receiver Anthony Miller's upward momentum and kicker Eddy Pineiro's stumbles. They finish by handing out multiple crowns: toasting Thanksgiving shenanigans, identifying their least favorite items on the annual smorgasbord and giving props to a Bears newcomer who has played well this season.
The Bears outlasted the Giants, 19-14, in a battle of bad teams Sunday, and Rich and Dan break it all down. Even though the Bears claimed their fifth win, they demonstrated plenty of their trademark sloppiness — even against a terrible Giants secondary. They dissect both of Mitch Trubisky's interceptions, which were particularly troubling considering this is Week 12 of the NFL season. The stalled running game is on the hook, too, as are poor red-zone performances, dropped passes and penalties. But there were bright spots, including Khalil Mack returning to top form and a defense that was solid overall. After quickly handing out game balls (the recipients were super obvious), Rich and Dan run through their favorite three-word reviews from the audience.
What do Mitch Trubisky, Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer have in common? Full participation at Halas Hall this week. As the Bears’ starting quarterback practices in the wake of suffering a hip pointer, Rich and Dan preview Sunday's game against the Giants. Rich leads off by turning in the homework assignment Dan gave him, a sobering one at that. They disagree on whether backup QB Chase Daniel would allow for more comprehensive evaluation of Matt Nagy's offense over the final six games as well as what's at stake for GM Ryan Pace as the Bears play out the string. In That’s Just Stupid, they spotlight the latest kicker problems (how can Eddy Pineiro be too confident?). Next, they lay out Dan’s three keys to a Bears victory, two of which involve Nagy’s offense (finally) hitting its stride. Getting to their predictions, they agree on who will win Sunday — though neither predicts a blowout. Finally, in Crown ‘Em, they wonder which Bears defensive player will bring home hardware by beating up on the woeful Giants.
Mitch Trubisky's premature exit from the Bears' 17-7 loss to the Rams has had 36 hours to marinate, and Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer are here to break it all down. They share how they experienced Matt Nagy's decision to pull Trubisky, first from the press box as it happened and then from the postgame media area. They break down what Nagy and Trubisky said what Nagy explained Monday. They explore the possibility Chase Daniel finishes the season at quarterback and discuss the evidence that Trubisky was hindered by his hip pointer. They look ahead to the week, mindful of what questions need to be answered, and finish by sharing your 3-word game reviews.
Rich and Dan discuss their 10-chapter examination of why the Bears drafted Mitch Trubisky over Patrick Mahomes and Deshaun Watson (which can be found at chicagotribune.com/bears). In a supplement to the online project, the guys provide important context and analysis of what they reported about the draft decisions and developmental processes for all three quarterbacks. The objective is to understand how the Bears got to this point with Trubisky in order to establish where they're headed. They shine a light on general manager Ryan Pace's role in leading the Bears to Trubisky and potential shortcomings in how the Bears evaluated Watson. They look at the infrastructure the Chiefs had in place to develop Mahomes, as opposed to the Bears' situation for Trubisky. They answer audience questions at the end of the show, including some about Pace and Trubisky's future and what role race played in the evaluation of all three quarterbacks.
Bears win! Well, yes, they did end their four-game losing streak with a 20-13 victory over the shorthanded Lions. But Rich and Dan break it all down and let some air out of the balloon — not that much was in there to start. On the bright side, quarterback Mitch Trubisky threw three touchdown passes and the offense showed it could take advantage of another bad defense. But the Bears had seven three-and-outs on 12 possessions and gained only 25 yards on their first 15 plays, and they were fortunate Lions QB Matthew Stafford was scratched. Next up are Rich and Dan's favorite three-word reviews from the audience, including several bites at the Trubisky-to-Gabriel apple. Last but not least, they hand out game balls: one to a linebacker in a contract year and another to a tight end whose senses have been heightened.
Rich and Dan break down the matchup against the Lions as the Bears hope to end their four-game losing streak Sunday. Leading off: To bench or not to bench? Quarterback Mitch Trubisky, that is. Would starting backup Chase Daniel help them in the long run? Beyond stabilizing the QB, what does coach Matt Nagy have to do to spark the offense, including getting more out of the void at tight end as well as Tarik Cohen? There are rumblings that a switch on the offensive line is imminent, by the way. In That’s Just Stupid, Rich and Dan come to Trubisky’s defense: They can’t believe his tongue-in-cheek remark about turning off the TVs at Halas Hall ballooned into a nationwide talking point. Next, Dan offers his three keys to Sunday’s game — one of which sounds awfully familiar. They also analyze how to slow down Matthew Stafford and the Detroit passing game. Getting to their predictions, both writers agree on who they think will win — and they foresee the same scoring output for the Bears. Finally, in Crown 'Em, they get a bit slap happy while reminiscing about Patriots coach Bill Belichick's praise of Trubisky and receiver Taylor Gabriel. They've got clips and everything!
Each week, the Bears find a new way to underscore their ineptitude. This time it was a 22-14 loss to the Eagles, highlighted by an atrocious offensive performance in the first half. Rich and Dan break it all down from the Lincoln Financial Field press box. They discuss the historically bad first half that featured nine total yards — nine! — and doubt much can be done to fix the mess. Even the defense (ahem, seven penalties) deserves blame, as it hasn't sustained the magic that carried the Bears to the 2018 NFC North title. Next, Rich and Dan reflect on how every level of anger could be found in the locker room afterward, which is indicative of the team’s brand of last-place football. They finish the show by sharing the audience’s best three-word reviews. As usual, the readers do not disappoint in that regard.
The Bears have lost three straight for the first time in Matt Nagy's tenure, and his critics are out in full force. That includes Rich — who dressed as an NFL equipment manager for Halloween — and Dan as they preview the Bears' game at Philadelphia on Sunday. They discuss Nagy's overflowing self-confidence and defiance in the face of outside second-guessing, after which they break down the coach's ability to bring his offensive wits to the level of his heralded people skills. In That's Just Stupid, they take on the Curious Case of the Missed 41-yard Field Goal. What follows is a spirited back-and-forth on how the Bears handled the lead-up and aftermath of Eddy Pineiro’s ill-fated attempt against the Chargers. FYI, Rich and Dan aren't quite on the same page here. Moving on to Dan's 3 keys to a Bears victory, running backs, defense and Mitch Trubisky (of course) are in the spotlight. The duo definitely agree on how the game against the Eagles will turn out — they even have the same margin of victory for the winner. Finally, they give a young Bears running back his due in Crown 'Em.
The Bears’ hope (hype?) doesn’t feel real anymore as they have gone 0-for-October. Rich and Dan break down the team’s third straight defeat, a gut-wrenching 17-16 loss to the Chargers, from Soldier Field. They start with the end, discussing coach Matt Nagy's anxiety as well as his decision to kneel down and run the clock down before Eddy Pineiro’s ill-fated, 41-yard field goal. Next they dive into Mitch Trubisky's latest struggles, including his two fourth-quarter turnovers, before shifting gears to analyze Nagy's commitment to the running game and David Montgomery's breakout performance. They examine where this season is headed now that the losses are piling up and the schedule is getting tougher. Finally, they wrap up by handing out game balls (not everyone played poorly, after all) and some of their favorite three-word reviews.
The Bears are preparing to host the Chargers, hoping to snap their two-game losing streak, and Rich and Dan go into therapy mode: They put the team on the proverbial couch and examine its collective psyche. That includes coach Matt Nagy — who’s asking his team for "ruthless anger" as opposed to "reckless anger" — quarterback Mitch Trubisky and a locker room wobbling under the weight of championship expectations. In That’s Just Stupid, they brush off the criticism of Trubisky's demeanor at Wednesday's press conference as behavior to be expected from a QB coming off a terrible game. Then they break down Dan's three keys to a Bears victory, including a defensive recovery (yes, really), an ultra-low bar for the offense and exploiting the Chargers' biggest weakness. Next come the score predictions, and both Rich and Dan are on the same page. Finally, they look outside the Bears universe — specifically to the cream of the NFC crop — in Crown ‘Em.
That awful sound you hear is the Bears’ season going off the rails with a 36-25 home loss to the Saints that wasn’t as close as the score indicated. Rich and Dan break it all down, starting with Mitch Trubisky’s ineptitude, and they go so far as to issue their verdicts on the third-year quarterback after his latest dreadful performance. Coach Matt Nagy’s play selection and inability to elevate Trubisky go under the microscope next. Even the defense and special teams take some heat before the duo circle back to where the Bears and their underperforming quarterback go from here. Finally, Rich and Dan pass the mic to the listeners in the form of three-word reviews.
Rich and Dan literally talk into a wall — that’s actually a good thing — as they preview the Bears-Saints game from Halas Hall. They start with the week’s two big roster moves: Kyle Long and Akiem Hicks going on injured reserve. Rich and Dan covered every season Long has played, and they explore the human side of discarding a well-respected veteran as well as read between the lines on what the decision implies about his skills. Hicks, meanwhile, will continue to be a huge (literally and figuratively) smiling presence in the locker room. In That’s Just Stupid, the guys rip the league’s officiating in the wake of two penalties that marred the Packers' win over the Lions on Monday. Switching to Dan’s three keys to beating the Saints, they focus on Mitch Trubisky’s comfort level, jump-starting the running game and slowing down the Saints’ top playmakers. To wrap up, Rich makes a prediction, and he and Dan conclude with a different sort of Crown ‘Em: Picking a wild card of a player to reset the Bears’ path (looking at you, Leonard Floyd and Tarik Cohen).
As the Bears come out of their bye week, Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer look at the offense by going all the way back through the 2019 offseason and examine how the Bears assessed their offense and quarterback Mitch Trubisky's evolution. They look at what coach Matt Nagy, offensive coordinator Mark Helfrich and general manager Ryan Pace said about their vision for the offense and what their target is as they proceed from an underwhelming first five games. The discussion includes a look at Trubisky's accuracy, his command of the scheme and how the Bears plan to accelerate his development. They finish the show with a crown for Mrs. Wiederer, who is more athletic than the two of them put together.
The Bears' 24-21 loss to the Raiders on Sunday in London featured the worst half they've played in coach Matt Nagy's 22-game tenure. Rich and Dan — one of whom is in his pajamas — convene to break it down just before heading back to the States. They discuss whether the Bears' relatively late arrival in London affected their terrible start as they fell behind 17-0 (2:33). They examine what happened to the Bears’ run defense (6:29), which had been excellent the first four games. Switching to the offense, is there anything the Bears can do to improve significantly this season, even if Mitch Trubisky returns (13:34)? Finally, Rich and Dan run a hurry-up version of the best three-word game reviews, even breaking out their (iffy) British accents (20:45).
Cheerio! The Bears are in London — and so are Rich and Dan for the first international episode of Bear Download. In this preview of Sunday's game against the Raiders, Rich and Dan share details of the first 24 hours of their London experience, hack British accents and all. They discuss Roquan Smith's status amid personal issues that kept him out of the Week 4 win over the Vikings. Dan overreacts to some turbulence on his trans-Atlantic flight before detailing his 3 keys to a Bears victory. The latter includes a discussion on the Bears' sensational first-half defense, the Raiders' return in the Khalil Mack trade and backup quarterback Chase Daniel’s temporary management of the offense. They finish with a deeper re-examination of the Mack trade 13 months later, including the direction it sent the Raiders and how the trade is still being processed from the Bay Area all the way to Lakeview.
The Bears' 16-6 win over the Vikings was an impressive top-to-bottom flex by a dominant defense and a handful of backups on both sides of the ball. So how does the Bears' 3-game winning streak coexist with all the questions that surfaced in the victory? Rich and Dan break it down from the press level at Soldier Field. They discuss Mitch Trubisky's left shoulder injury, the uncertainty surrounding his status and why Chase Daniel is a capable place holder for a limited time. Next, they spotlight the latest outstanding defensive performance, including how Khalil Mack and the two Nicks helped bottle up the Vikings and running back Dalvin Cook. Lastly, they read Rich's favorite 3-word game reviews submitted on Twitter, give out their game balls and quickly look at the unusual week ahead involving the London game.
Rich And Dan preview the Bears' pivotal NFC North matchup before Sunday’s game vs. the Vikings at Soldier Field. They start by sharing the audience's best 3-word reviews of Monday’s win over the Redskins. Then, they introduce a new game to the podcast called "Big Deal or Not A Big Deal" to discuss Mitch Trubisky's third-down production, his interception inside the red zone, this week’s lengthy injury report and the ramifications of a second home loss to a divisional opponent. Next, they get out their magnifying glasses to examine Tarik Cohen's NSFW live video, go over Dan's 3 keys to a Bears win in Week 4, share their score predictions and crown the receiver who finally added a touchdown (or three) next to his name in the season box score.
Rich and Dan are at Halas Hall on Friday afternoon as the Bears prepare for Monday night’s road game against the Redskins. First, Dan's attempt to sing one of Cher's greatest hits nearly ruins an otherwise insightful segment about the offense’s opportunity to get untracked against one of the NFL’s worst defenses. Next, they sift through Mitch Trubisky's belief that the offense will soon get rolling, discuss the bogus roughing the passer penalties from the Week 2 victory over the Broncos, detail Dan’s 3 keys to a Bears victory. Lastly, they share their Week 3 predictions and finish up by spotlighting Matt Nagy's timely lesson to his players involving the Week 1 Saints-Texans game.
Rich and Dan, from the 25-yard line at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, recap those 9 crazy seconds that was the ending of the Bears' Week 2 win over the Broncos. Plus: Eddy Pineiro's 53-yard field goal, your 3-word reviews and an overall critic of the offense and defense.
It won’t be long before the Bears take on Denver to try and put their Week 1 loss behind them. But before that happens, Rich and Dan dissect what went wrong against the Packers (3:05) and how the Bears — coach Matt Nagy and quarterback Mitch Trubisky in particular — can move forward. They zero in on Nagy’s game management (12:22) and put a few questions out there, including: How long before the coach trusts kicker Eddy Pineiro? And how does a team determine which field goals to attempt? Next, the upcoming chess match between Nagy and Broncos coach Vic Fangio takes center stage (22:40). Short version: Trubisky will have his hands full. In That’s Just Stupid (26:11), the guys tackle Trubisky’s odd press conference in which he refused to offer details from the Packers game. In breaking down Sunday’s matchup, Dan’s Three Keys (46:37) shine a spotlight on David Montgomery, taking a page out of Aaron Rodgers’ playbook (yes, really) and setting up Khalil Mack and Leonard Floyd to do some damage. Score predictions are up next (56:37) before the duo crown the Bears’ best offensive player (1:00:29).
Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer break down the Bears' 10-3 loss to the Packers in the NFL season opener, focusing on how Mitch Trubisky and the offense struggled and where the unit can go from here (2:46 mark). They discuss the team's sloppiness to start the third quarter and why Matt Nagy went for it on fourth-and-10 instead of sending out Eddy Pineiro to try a 51-yard field goal (17:50). They read your three-word reviews (23:35), give the Bears defense its due after some young players came up with big plays (29:06) and give out game balls to key performers (38:22). They wrap up by taking an early look at Week 2's opponent: The Vic Fangio-coached Broncos (39:09).
The NFL regular season is here, and Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer are basking in the glow of Bears-Packers. They dive into the power struggle between new Green Bay coach Matt LaFleur and Aaron Rodgers (4:58), including whether the quarterback really had back tightness in the preseason (11:20). Switching to the Bears’ challenges, the spotlight shines on tight end Trey Burton in That’s Just Stupid (20:35). Specifically, will he ever be healthy? Rich and Dan are skeptical. In Dan’s Three Keys to Thursday’s game, the discussion is on Matt Nagy and Mitch Trubisky trying to make magic (27:50), Eddy Pineiro trying to make kicks (32:50) and the Bears defense trying to account for Packers running back Aaron Jones (36:58). Finally, the guys dole out predictions (39:06) — which we won’t spoil here — before pondering Cody Whitehair’s newfound buying power in Crown ‘Em.
It's Week 0 for the Bears and final cuts are looming, which means Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer are getting antsy for the regular season. Dan shares his first-hand account of Andrew Luck's retirement announcement in Indianapolis (5:01) and the guys break that down from multiple angles, including how the news broke. They discuss Cris Collinsworth's and Al Michaels' reflections on the "double doink" call and how a call can become synonymous with a game (30:58). They examine how the Bears are trying to ensure Mitch Trubisky gained confidence from his final drive against the Eagles (37:15) and predict the first 53-man roster, highlighting the questions surrounding the bottom of the roster as the Bears exit the preseason and head toward the season opener against the Packers (52:17).
Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer are reunited in the Halas Hall coat closet, and it feels so good. With Rich back from paternity leave, he and Dan catch up on — what else? — the kicker search now that Eddy Pineiro is the only one on the roster and have conflicting reactions to a Sports Illustrated story that depicts the Bears as lost in their search (4:00). Matt Nagy's recent "no turds" comment compels the guys to relive the disastrous 2014 campaign, which was the last time the Bears entered a season with such high expectations (30:26). They shift gears to explain their comfort with a wait-and-see approach to Mitch Trubisky's season after an undeniably inconsistent showing in summer practices (40:21) and finish by detailing some of the Tribune's Bears100 coverage, which continues to roll out ahead of the season opener (53:34).
Rich and Dan are still in Bourbonnais to discuss what they've learned watching about the Bears so far from watching practice: The defense is pretty, pretty good (3:01 mark), the offense with Mitch Trubisky is still a work in progress (15:13) and the two kickers are somewhat better than expected (28:48). On the other side of things, an investigation into Matt Nagy's Pennsylvania Dutch accent and the case of “peanuts” (33:44). And then, a dive into the new pass-interference review that will make NFL history (38:29). Lastly, the two crown … themselves, the Tribune and love (48:30).
The Bears are back — which means Rich and Dan are podcasting from Bourbonnais. They start, of course, with the kicking competition (4:02 mark) before zeroing in on quarterback Mitch Trubisky and what would constitute a successful season in the second year of his partnership with Matt Nagy (10:48). Next, they discuss Tarik Cohen’s flashy entrance (19:05), breakout candidates (25:30), potential pitfalls (33:12), the transition to defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano (36:08) and what Nagy has to prove in his second year (43:31). Lastly, they toss some random non-football questions at each other to finish the show as the silliness sets in.
Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer wrap up the Bears offseason program as the team heads for summer break. They examine what the offense accomplished this spring behind quarterback Mitch Trubisky's progress and how Super Bowl expectations fall into Trubisky's lap (2:50), spotlight the apparent — and unsettling — lack of progress in the kicker search (16:50) and question whether Matt Nagy has created a kicking competition that has negative ramifications for its quirkiness and intensity (26:19). They offer their impressions of the ongoing defensive transition and what to look for from Khalil Mack's crew during training camp and preseason games (33:33). They finish with a "Crown 'Em" curve ball with an eye on various warnings about complacency (42:04).
Rich and Dan recap the Bears100 convention with a loaded show, that includes a chat with All-Pro safety Eddie Jackson. But first they share their highlights of the weekend (3:13), from Devin Hester’s pulse-pounding introduction to William Perry rapping his verse of the “Super Bowl Shuffle.” Several panels also stood out, including Mitch Trubisky’s budding bromance with Jim McMahon (11:57), the showcase of Hall of Fame linebackers (16:58) and the emotional defensive line gathering (24:54) in which Akiem Hicks boldly accepted a challenge from his predecessors. In That’s Just Stupid, Rich and Dan pan the bizarre sequencing at the opening ceremony (41:00) and review the 1936 replica uniforms (44:04). Enter Jackson, (46:36), who discusses his Little League career ahead of his charity softball game Saturday in Schaumburg. He shares his own lasting impressions from Bears100, including his introduction to Da Coach and what he took from the panel with Gary Fencik, Doug Plank and Mike Brown. Jackson also shares his insight about the defense’s transition to coordinator Chuck Pagano, how his season-ending ankle injury fuels him in 2019 and how Khalil Mack has supercharged the Bears defense. Finally in Crown ‘Em, Rich and Dan salute the franchise's matriarch (1:07:06).
Tarik Cohen, the Bears' All-Pro return specialist, joins the podcast, as Rich and Dan spotlight the offense during full-squad spring practices. They chat with Cohen (2:56 mark) about his Pro Bowl experience, the Bears’ retooled backfield and his work for New Era hats, which occasionally includes him trying to “copy coach (Matt) Nagy’s swag with the visor.” In That’s Just Stupid, Rich and Dan scratch their heads over Trey Burton’s offseason sports hernia surgery and wonder about his return (17:42). They dig into Mitch Trubisky’s progress (27:37) using insight from offensive coordinator Mark Helfrich and quarterbacks coach Dave Ragone. In Crown ‘Em, they assess they state of the elusive Khalil Mack and get an up-close look at his presence during practice (47:50). That discussion includes Dan playing proverbial ominous music about the avalanche of attention headed the Bears’ way in 2019 (49:16).
Rich and Dan host the world’s only podcast to mention Taquan Mizzell and Donald Trump within eight minutes of each other. In discussing Bears spring practices, they highlight elements they’re monitoring during the offseason. Specifically: QB Mitch Trubisky’s grasp of the offense (3:39), how chess pieces Tarik Cohen, Cordarrelle Patterson and David Montgomery fit into the offense (10:20), the defense’s comfort under new coordinator Chuck Pagano (13:50) and the kicker competition (23:07). Ahem, they also had fun laying odds on whether Robbie Gould will kick for the Bears in 2019. In That’s Just Stupid, Rich and Dan scratch their heads over the Jets’ moves — some of which involve Bears connections — that "scream incompetence" (29:26). They share their first impressions of new secondary coach Deshea Townsend (41:45) and outside linebackers coach Ted Monachino (46:47). Finally, the two kick off the Tribune’s crowning of the 100 best players in franchise history by going behind the scenes of the staff's spirited discussions (54:06).
As the dust settles on the Bears' battle royal of rookie kickers, Rich and Dan examine what progress — if any — the team has made any, toward identifying the Week 1 kicker: Details on the 8-man competition at the rookie minicamp (2:04 mark), whether the Bears need to add a veteran to the competition (8:25), break down the head-to-head battle that ended with Casey Bednarski's backflip and Redford Jones' departure (12:30), address the minority opinion that Cody Parkey should be part of this competition (17:28), discuss what to make of the trade for kicker Eddy Pineiro (19:46), how the Bears must manage the competition from here (23:16) and examine the hire of kicking consultant Jamie Kohl (29:17). Then, they share their rookie camp impressions of cornerback Duke Shelley and running back David Montgomery (42:11) and talk about fourth-round pick Riley Ridley and the roster outlook at receiver (47:41). They finish by discussing how ping-pong tables and mini basketball hoops influence a locker room (53:15), noting how Dan once got posted up by Martellus Bennett.
Rich and Dan waste no time recapping the Bears' draft class from the Halas Hall coat closet (where else?). They dissect the trade up for Iowa State running back David Montgomery (2:28), spotlighting the traits that make him a pro-ready back and the upside the Bears see in him as a receiver (9:55). They salute Montgomery’s huge heart (12:30) and set realistic expectations for him as an NFL player. The duo (temporarily) skids off on a tangent to slam Chicago’s insane April weather (21:40). BTW, they are not fans of construction, either. Getting back on track, they break down the Bears’ four Day 3 picks with special attention paid to Georgia receiver Riley Ridley (24:38) and Kansas State cornerback Duke Shelley (35:06). Rich and Dan finish by taking the Crown ‘Em segment to hope the Bears call some audibles as they audition their growing cache of kickers (40:40).
Rich and Dan preview the NFL draft from the Halas Hall coat closet (without chairs this time!) after Bears GM Ryan Pace’s annual pre-draft news conference. They dig into the team's need for a running back (3:48) — despite Pace's insistence otherwise. The pair examine how the Bears’ small set of picks (five) affects the dynamic of this year’s draft (15:29) and wonder whether they'll make any trades. In continuing to get to know new defensive coordinator Chuck Pagano, they spotlight his penchant for hyperbole (28:05). Rich and Dan then highlight other positions of need, starting with, yes, kicker, and Robbie Gould demanding a trade from the 49ers (32:53). They also suggest that grading on a curve might be the way to go when judging the Bears' efforts (43:33). They finish by crowning a veteran who was crowned by his peers and can't help but crack people up (49:02).
The Bears' 2019 schedule is out, and Rich and Dan couldn't wait to break it down — so they didn't. They begin with their overall impressions (5:31) before going month by month with a magnifying glass. They analyze a September that features two divisional home games (7:25); the London matchup against the Raiders (14:13) and the rest of October (16:46); a November slate that includes a Thanksgiving sequel (21:26); and a difficult December (25:45). In That's Just Stupid, they lament another Week 17 trip to the icebox that is Minneapolis (30:01), and don't get them started on Russell Wilson's social media antics. Finally, Rich and Dan crown their favorite road trips on the schedule (37:40). (Hint: Hellooooo, sunshine!)
Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer dig into the recent Bleacher Report expose about Aaron Rodgers and the dynamics that precipitated the Packers' two-year fall from Super Bowl contention to firing coach Mike McCarthy (5:12 mark). They share their overall impressions of the article (6:36) before Dan provides context by recounting his personal experience with Greg Jennings criticizing Rodgers (12:23). They distinguish between facts and opinions in the article (17:26) and examine if Rodgers' persona has been detrimental to the Packers despite their run of success, especially against the Bears (18:46). They explain journalistic processes required for a story such as this (34:32) and discuss how McCarthy and former general manager Ted Thompson were portrayed in the article (46:46). They discuss what the future holds for Rodgers and new coach Matt LaFleur (52:22) and crown the Bears' 2018 Ed Block Courage Award winner (1:06:51).
Rich and Dan are at Tribune headquarters to analyze the Bears offseason as the calendar flips to April. They break down the Jordan Howard trade from all angles, including why the Bears were willing to part with him for such low-level compensation and what Matt Nagy must prove with his makeover over the Bears running backs group (3.20 mark). Next, they share a giant eye roll at April Fools silliness (23:28), spotlight what GM Ryan Pace said at the owners’ meetings about Ha Ha Clinton-Dix's 2018 stumbles and 2019 upside (30:40) and finally, make their NCAA Tournament predictions (39:00).
Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer wrap up the NFL owners' meetings in Phoenix: Assessing the unmistakable confidence and energy Matt Nagy is exuding (3:00 mark), moving the magnifying glass over to Nagy's confidence in quarterback Mitch Trubisky and how, in 2019, they will clean up some of the missed throws (15:40), debating the use of Bitmojis in the wake of Nagy's revelation that he and Andy Reid communicate using the text-message cartoons (23:30), zeroing in on the kicker situation after Ryan Pace and Nagy's latest update (31:39) and finally, George McCaskey tells the story about how he once lost his Super Bowl XX championship ring (50:28).
On a special edition of the Bear Download podcast, Virginia McCaskey shares her perspective on the team’s rich history as the Bears and the NFL begin their 100th anniversary celebrations. She shares what specifically inspires her to celebrate this year (4:23 mark), talks about her father — the legendary George Halas — as a coach, leader and innovator from the early days of the NFL through the championship team of 1963 (6:06), remembers the 1985 Super Bowl team (15:56), reflects on an exciting resurgence following Khalil Mack's arrival (20:28) and expresses hope for another prosperous 100 years for the league and for her family's stewardship of the Bears (24:10). Enjoy!
Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer break down the Bears' start to free agency, starting with the Bears-Packers swap of safeties Adrian Amos and Ha Ha Clinton-Dix (2:31 mark). They discuss the role of sports media in the wake of Bradley University's restrictions on the Peoria Journal Star's longtime basketball beat writer (21:44) and use that incident to discuss the dynamics of Bears media coverage (28:09). They examine the free-agent additions to the offense, specifically Mike Davis and Cordarrelle Patterson (37:51), and what they mean for Jordan Howard and Mitch Trubisky (48:14). They crown a coach who helped develop two unheralded secondary prospects and, by extension, improved the Bears' chances of earning a compensatory draft pick in 2020 (55:26).
With the NFL's new league year upon us, Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer preview free agency with a detailed examination of the Bears' needs and options (3:25 mark), look at how the Bears might upgrade the offense despite having all 11 starters under contract (5:23) and discuss adding a wide receiver (6:05). They dissect the situations of safety Adrian Amos (15:34) and slot cornerback Bryce Callahan (26:25), and take familiar target practice at the latest inanity of the pre-draft process (31:10). They examine running back Jordan Howard's future (39:50) and what trading him would do for the offense and the team's running backs, specifically Tarik Cohen. They finish with a spirited crowning of two friends (55:13).
Rich Campbell and Dan Wiederer are at the NFL scouting combine in Indianapolis and are joined by a special guest: Bears coach Matt Nagy (3:05 mark). Nagy weighs in on a range of topics, including his first season, how he develops his leadership methods and how he'll lay out the team's path to the Super Bowl. Nagy discusses the Bears' "average" offense (13:05) and how they'll improve in 2019. He discusses his offseason, including attending the Duke-North Carolina basketball game (20:20). Rich and Dan explain the weirdness of this combine when the Bears don't draft until No. 87 and have less salary cap space than in past years (27:00). They recap what general manager Ryan Pace said about the kicker competition (30:58) and crown a veteran player for finding a solution to remain with the team (41:49).
Rich and Dan are at Tribune headquarters to catch up on a busy Bears offseason. Dan reports back from the Pro Bowl, where he covered a much more relaxed Mitch Trubisky and his six teammates (3:10), including a self-deprecating Tarik Cohen. Rich shares his impressions of Chuck Pagano (15:05), and he and Dan discuss the new defensive coordinator’s task as well as his one-liners. In "That’s Just Stupid” (29:24), the guys tear down ProFootballTalk.com’s Mike Florio’s bloated analysis of introductory press conferences. In other words, would you rather have Matt Nagy or Jon Gruden right now? The reporters also dissect recent news, including whether Kareem Hunt will be a Bear (36:20), why re-signing right tackle Bobby Massie is important (39:31) and why Bears fans should know who Redford Jones is (43:13). Hint: Cody Parkey’s baggage. They finish the show by crowning their Super Bowl picks while possibly oversharing (51:17).
Rich and Dan break down the news conference held by Bears general manager Ryan Pace and coach Matt Nagy by discussing what was said about running back Kareem Hunt and what those comments indicate about a potential union (3:11 mark). They detail Nagy and Pace's adverse reaction to Cody Parkey's "Today" show appearance (32:49), discuss the possibility of Robbie Gould's return (44:48), spotlight Dan's misguided curiosity about Bears fans' escalated feud with Alshon Jeffery (53:44), look at Chuck Pagano's hire (1:02:17) and give the NFL injury gods their due credit for the Bears' 2018 success (1:11:36).
Rich and Dan host the first 2019 offseason episode, bystanders in the postseason after the Bears' wild-card loss to the Eagles. They bid farewell to Vic Fangio and wonder how the 60-year-old longtime coordinator will fair in the head coaching job he coveted (3:28 mark), wonder who will replace him and examine the important characteristic of the new coordinator (14:40), highlight a disputed play in the Bears’ one-point loss to the Eagles and the extreme takes it prompted (22:53), discuss maligned kicker Cody Parkey’s appearance on NBC’s “Today,” wondering exactly what he trying to accomplish by seeking the national spotlight after his season-ending field goal miss (29:45) and finish up with their picks for the divisional round of the playoffs (44:54).
Rich and Dan are in a dark suite on the Soldier Field press level to recap the Bears' heartbreaking 16-15 playoff loss to the Eagles. They begin by discussing Cody Parkey’s season-ending missed 43-yard field goal and the team's disastrous kicking situation (2:40 mark), identify some of the little things that swung the outcome — including Trey Burton,s shocking and mysterious injury absence (12:28), examine quarterback Mitch Trubisky’s performance and ask how his playoff debut should be remembered (17:10), spotlight a respectable defensive performance that included conceding the game-winning touchdown in the final minute (26:18) and discuss Eddie Jackson’s absence despite him being in uniform (31:07). They finish by reading your 3-word reviews (34:53) and thanking the listeners for a fun season.
In the long-awaited inaugural playoff edition of Bear Download, Rich and Dan preview the Bears’ wild-card game against the Eagles. They unpack Dan’s story on Khalil Mack’s incredible first four months with the team (2:20) — including his evasiveness off the field, which contrasts with his poise while being interviewed. They examine Dan’s three keys to a Bears win against the Eagles: Mitch Trubisky’s composure (8:10), stopping Chicago-insulter and former Bears receiver and Alshon Jeffery (16:12) and blocking Pro Bowl lineman Fletcher Cox (20:15). In That’s Just Stupid, they roll their eyes at pre-packaged TV narratives (with audio!) (26:30). They break down the X-factors that will determine whether the Bears make a deep run in the playoffs (33:50), including kicker Cody Parkey and the resurgent running game. Finally, their Crown ‘Em segment touches on the head-scratching business of hiring and firing head coaches, as well as the two friends coaching against each other Sunday (45:30).
Rich and Dan are in the U.S. Bank Stadium press box after the 12-4 Bears ended the Vikings' season with a 24-10 win: They examine the Bears' urgency and killer instinct (3:06 mark) in a game they didn’t have to win, as well as players’ ability to focus on the present (3:51), spotlight Mitch Trubisky’s success on third down (5:15), discuss Kyle Long’s return and the re-ignited running game (8:01), break down another dominant defensive performance (9:00) and the Bears’ 5-1 record against NFC North opponents (12:01). Then, they look ahead to the wild-card round matchup against the Eagles (12:41) and update the Bears’ injury situation leaving Minneapolis (15:00). They discuss kick Cody Parkey’s latest miss (16:50) and finish by reading your 3-word reviews of Sunday’s beatdown (20:15).
Rich and Dan are still spreading holiday cheer as they preview the Bears’ regular-season finale against the Vikings. They assess the NFC playoff landscape (3:36), then Rich wonders why more people aren’t talking about Vikings safety Harrison Smith’s illegal hit on quarterback Mitch Trubisky (8:23), especially considering the Bears might have to play them twice in six days. The guys discuss how Bears coach Matt Nagy make adjustments Sunday, knowing the strong likelihood of a playoff rematch against the Vikings (20:01). Segueing to That’s Just Stupid, they lambaste first-year Lions coach Matt Patricia’s Grinch-like persona while Dan forgives Rich’s occasional tardiness (27:48). Finally, they detail Dan’s three keys to beating Minnesota (38:19), try to plan Dan’s shirtless outdoor appearance and crown a Prince as the 2018 Bears Media Good Guy (47:43).
Rich and birthday boy Dan are in the Levi's Stadium press box to recap the Bears' 14-9 victory over the 49ers. They assess the playoff picture following most of the Week 16 results (2:10 mark), examine quarterback Mitch Trubisky's effective, accurate dink-and-dunk approach following his discouraging interception that was negated by a penalty (3:58) and look at Allen Robinson’s fumble in the final 3 minutes (14:01). Then, they spotlight another good defensive performance, this time against the depleted 49ers (15:25) — Danny Trevathan was the hero with his interception in red zone in the final 8 minutes (15:56) Lastly, they read your 3-word reviews (21:07) and answer your questions (22:52) about the skirmish, another missed field goal by Cody Parkey and more.
Rich and Dan examine the Bears’ worst-to-first turnaround in the afterglow of their NFC North championship and preview Sunday’s game against the 49ers. They discuss GM Ryan Pace’s role in the division title (3:25), including how his best traits have aided the rebuild and the organization’s faith in him. They ponder the Bears’ potential vulnerabilities in the postseason(their health springs to mind) (29:25) and scoff at how many alternates usually end up making the Pro Bowl (35:50). They also shower Dan with the premature birthday wishes he craves — ruining Rich’s plan to surprise him (44:10), analyze Dan’s three keys to beating the 49ers (44:47) and lay out the Week 16 playoff picture (55:36). Finally, they crown the division champs, with a shout-out to Club Dub (57:50).