There might not be any greater sound byte in Chicago sports these days than Steve McMichael. The former Bears defensive tackle has long had a reputation for being outspoken, unafraid to tell it like it is in whatever colorful language he chooses. It’s why he had success in professional wrestling. It’s also why he’s a joy to listen to on the radio and in interviews.
That’s why it was most enjoyable to read his conversation with Andrew Dannehy of Da Bears Blog. The two talked about a number of subjects including the Bears’ upcoming season, his ongoing Hall of Fame snub, favorite QB to sack and his brief stint in New England. His most extensive comment though was saved for Jay Cutler.
Steve McMichael feels lack of locker room control killed Jay
By now most people heard the comments by former 80s Bears staple Dan Hampton. The Hall of Famer didn’t mince words when he stated his team would’ve won four Super Bowls had Cutler been on their roster. It wasn’t the first time he’d said this and even became more specific with the details.
Sure enough McMichael was also asked about the former polarizing Bears quarterback. He offered his own spin on the key reason Cutler never had success. It came down to locker room culture and lack of a defense to lean on.
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“Boy, Cutler needed me and Hampton in that locker room. When you’re not a leader, you need to be led and nobody led him. He was more talented than McMahon, he just knew with the defense he had that he had to take chances and that’s going to come back to bite you in the ass. With our defense, you don’t make a mistake or you beat yourself.”
It all goes back to McMahon
It’s no secret that a number of former Bears defenders from the ’80s are resentful of quarterback Jim McMahon. His reckless playing style frequently got him injured during those days. This put more pressure on the defense to perform with sub par backup QBs. It likely cost them numerous opportunities to win another championship. McMichael didn’t even try to hide the emotion when asked about it.
“If that pussy Deion Sanders could make business decisions and be in the Hall of Fame, McMahon should’ve been able to.”
No one will ever know what might’ve been. McMichael can only look forward, as Jay Cutler has with his broadcasting career. Hopefully not too long from now “Mongo”gets a chance to join his old brother “Danimal” in Canton. An honor he richly deserves with the third-most sacks for a defensive tackle in NFL history at 95. Not to mention playing on the best defense in NFL history.
