Several key players contributed to the Chicago Bears’ victory over the Carolina Panthers. Caleb Williams threw for 300 yards and two touchdowns, and the running backs scored three touchdowns. Gervon Dexter had a sack and six pressures. Kevin Byard had an interception. Jaquan Brisker forced a fumble. However, other less notable names were crucial to the rout. Probably the most unsung of those heroes was Bill Murray. The veteran guard stepped in for an injured Teven Jenkins midway through the game and was statistically the team’s best blocker.
One person who took notice was Tom Thayer. The Bears’ color analyst and former Super Bowl champion guard was impressed with what he saw. He thinks the organization may have stumbled onto a legitimate player. Forget being an adequate backup. Thayer made it sound on ESPN 1000 that Murray has the capability to start. His violent temperament and disciplined hand technique stood out constantly. It went so far as to state that Teven Jenkins is looking at legitimate competition now.
Chicago Bears don’t seem in a rush to elevate Murray.
While Jenkins is nursing an ankle injury, hopes are high that he should still be good to go for next Sunday in London. More will be known in the next couple of days. If he can’t go, it was made clear last week that Murray is now the primary backup. Don’t forget that head coach Matt Eberflus mentioned his name unprompted as somebody who stood out in both training camp and the preseason. Murray was a defensive tackle coming out of college as an undrafted free agent. New England eventually shifted him to the offensive line. Despite getting cut and enduring some career uncertainty, his persistence is finally paying off. One more opportunity could be all he needs to achieve his dream of claiming a starting job.
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Wow, lots to dwell on here! 1… Came out of college as a D lineman and converted to O line. Shades of Mark Bortz! 2,,, Doc Melhus, Damn, that’s interesting stuff. I’ll have to check out that site as I’m not Really impressed with PFF. 3… 3 to 4 years under Belichick’s tutelage. Belichick always focuses on the O line and kept this guy hanging around for 4 years even though he was a reserve/practice squad guy. That says something. 4… The way it’s emphasized how Murray is always searching with his head on a swivel is pretty eye opening.… Read more »
Belichick knows IOL play. Logan Mankins was #32, Strange was #29. Thuney was 3rd round, and Shaq Mason was 4th round. He’s always developed a solid center, but usually he flips those guards for picks when it’s contract extension time. No way would I ever select a guard at #6 like the Colts did with Quenton Nelson. Not to knock him as a player, but if I’m targeting a guard then I’m trading back and getting a couple players. You have to have a solid scouting department and draft strategy. Look at all the stud WRs that sign big contracts… Read more »
I think really, it’s just the offense picking up on Waldrons scheme and them Jelling as well. After all it is the first year in this offense. Arrows pointing up. Be nice to say the Bears got another good starting guard without using a draft pick though.
It’s just going to take a little more time, that’s all. Believe it or not, they were the top O line in football last week.
WDIK…. yes ..am I completely happy with the O Line? No… but one cannot rebuild the entire team in just 3 years. Poles took some swings and some missed, but many others hit. JF caused as many sacks and hits taken as did the O line by burping the baby all day. He still ranks as one of the worst at time to throw even with the Steelers. The line is improving weekly and I’m sure Poles will address it vigorously next off season. It’s one of the few remaining weaknesses left. Remember, the line got off to a slow… Read more »