The Charter: A Chicago Bears Podcast

Voluntary workouts have begun and the Matt Eberflus has the team in good spirits. Eberflus, Justin Fields, and Roquan Smith speak on the state of the new era Bears the new regime. Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro break down the sights and sounds from minicamp, including how the O-line looks, what is the plan for Justin Fields, and what will be Matt Eberflus' impact on the defense. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The draft is only a week away now and the talk about what's going on around Justin Fields is heating up. Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro discuss an article by Connor Orr of Sports Illustrated suggesting that Justin Fields should demand a trade for how the Bears have treated him, and they discuss what head coach Mat Eberflus said to NFL analyst Chris Collinsworth how the plan for Fields. The guys also react to another 1yr deal Ryan Poles made by signing tight end James O’Shaughnessy. (1:39) - Is Justin Fields being built around correctly? (8:38) - Changing a GM means patience from fans (15:00) -Rumors are swirling that the Bears are not going to draft a WR with early picks in the draft (20:00) - Bears sign TE James O'Shaughnessy See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Even though Ryan Poles and the Bears are having a conservative offseason transaction wise, they are trying to build something solid and consistent for the future but there are things we absolutely need to know by the time the season ends. Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro select their top 5 things that we must know about the Bears at the end of the upcoming season for it to be a success. What is on your list? (3:48) - Bears updates: Voluntary workouts begin April 19th (6:40) - Will the Bears build a new stadium? (13:20) - What does offensive coordinator Luke Getsy's offense look like? (15:00) - What kind of players does GM Ryan Poles like? (20:45) - Will Roquan Smith be a Bear long-term? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ryan Poles addresses another need in signing cornerback Tavon Young to a one-year deal. With another player signed for only one year, what is Ryan Poles thinking and what is his strategy this offseason? Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro break down the signing and if Ryan Poles playing the long game and being patient for the draft or next offseason. The guys also discuss the tragic passing of quarterback Dwayne Haskins. (1:15) - Bears sign Tavon Young but has an injury history (5:00) - Are Bears fans bored of this Bears offseason so far? (12:00) - What is Ryan Poles' plan? (14:10) - NFL quarterback Dwayne Haskins' passing over the weekend See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Fan Controlled Football is a new league that is going to take the game in a direction never seen before. Directly to the fans! Ken Davis is joined by the commissioner of the FCF, former Bear Ray Austin as they discuss what is fans controlled football and how fans can be in charge of their own in-game experience and coverage of the sport they love. They also discuss growing a new football league and Ray's time as a Bear. Check out the start of the season on April 16th on Peacock and NBCLX. (1:47) - How did the FCF get started? (11:30) - How much control do fans have over real-life games? (26:00) - Breaking down the FCF season (40:00) - How FCF is helping its athletes to expand their careers See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As Ryan Poles rebuilds the Bears, the WR position hasn't been fully addressed and with the NFL Draft coming up on April 28th, he can certainly find players in such a deep class of pass-catchers but who will be available in the second round and how should they rank on a draft board? Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro discuss which players you should be looking out for as the Bears make their first selection in the second round of this year's draft. (3:47) - Jameson Williams (Alabama) (10:52) - Treylon Burks (Arkansas) (15:50) - Christian Watson (North Dakota State) (22:00) - David Bell (Purdue) (27:00) - John Metchie III (Alabama) (36:10) - George Pickens (Georgia) (45:52) - Does Ryan Poles deem the WR position important for this season? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Changes are being made around the NFL at the annual NFL owners meetings. Along with other rules, the biggest change is the new overtime rule. Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro discuss the impact of the overtime rule and if they agree with the change. Also, the Bear's decision-makers speak to the media and discuss the offseason so far and their plans for the rest of the offseason. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

So much to discuss and so much to catch up on over the weekend. Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro break down the Matt Eberflus interview in which he discussed what he wants from the run game and the different personnel he would like to see. Eberflus also discusses reaching out to former Bears to get their ideas and expertise to improve the team. Ken and Alex also discuss the loss of Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins and the slap seen around the world at the Oscars. (2:43) - Eberflus discusses helping Justin Fields in year two is improving the run game (10:00) - Eberflus wants Charles "Peanut" Tillman to teach the Peanut Punch to Bears' defense (17:00) - Akiem Hicks is being connected to the Dallas Cowboys (29:00) - Reactions to Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins's passing (36:30) - Will Smith smacks Chris Rock at the Oscars See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The wild NFL off-season continues as another blockbuster trade goes down as Tyreek Hill of the Kansas City Chiefs is traded to the Miami Dolphins. This has to be the craziest NFL off-season of all time. Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, Alex Shapiro, and Tony Gill discuss the trade and if the Bears were looking into a deal for the wide receiver and break down the strategy Bears GM Ryan Poles is implementing to bring the Bears back. (9:00) - Breaking down the Chiefs trade of Tyreek Hill to the Dolphins (30:00) - How important is off the field issues to an NFL team? (43:00) - Will the Bears look to add more next off-season? (56:00) - Matt Ryan to the Colts, will this QB work for them? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears introduced officially the first wave of new Bears this offseason and the first set of free agents in the tenure of new GM Ryan Poles. Center Lucas Patrick, defensive tackle Justin Jones, defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad, linebacker Nicholas Morrow and receivers Byron Pringle and Equanimeous St. Brown are ready to make an impact this year. Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro breakdown Ryan Poles' press conference on the new players and what they expect from each. Also, the guys discuss the Deshaun Watson trade to the Browns and the QB carousel around the NFL. (2:00) - Ryan Poles pivot from Larry Ogunjobi (10:00) - What roll will Nicholas Morrow play on the defense (20:00) - Lucas Patrick announces he will be playing center (36:52) - What can Byron Pringle bring to the offense? (41:00) - Deshaun Watson trade scrambles the QBs around the AFC See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

After a failed physical, the Chicago Bears will not sign Cincinnati Bengals defensive lineman Larry Ogunjobi. On an emergency episode of the Under Center Podcast, host Ken Davis and Eric Strobel react to the news and where the Bears go from here so late into free agency. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Free agency continues and Ryan Poles seems to have the strategy of building his team inside first then out with his signings so far. Should fans be worried or be patient? Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Alex Shapiro discuss the recent Bear signings and the strategy Poles is using to rebuild the roster. (7:00) - Will the Bears be competitive this season? (15:00) - WR options for the Bears (27:00) - How impactful will Larry Ogunjobi be on the defense? (39:30) - How will Poles reshape the offensive line? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I mean, are we surprised? Tom Brady announces that he's returning to the NFL after only a few months in retirement and the NFC has shifted once again this offseason. Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro discuss Brady's return and the impact it will have on the NFC. Later in the pod, the guys discuss the fleeting WR free-agent market as the top talent seems to be slipping away and they discuss the Tarik Cohen and Eddie Goldman cuts by Ryan Poles. (1:40) - Tom Brady un-retires. Dude just go away (8:00) - NFC rankings now that Brady is back (16:00) - Bears WR options in free agency (28:30) - Tarik Cohen and Eddie Goldman will be released by the Bears See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Chicago Bears have traded Khalil Mack to the Los Angeles Chargers. It's the first big move under new general manager Ryan Poles. The Bears landed two NFL Draft picks in exchange for Mack and the Chargers will take on all of Mack's salary. On an emergency Under Center podcast, host Ken Davis, former player Alex Brown and writer Alex Shapiro react to the Bears trading away their defensive face of the franchise. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Big moves are happening in the NFL and some impact the Bears. Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Alex Shapiro discuss all the latest news around the NFL including, Aaron Rodgers returning to the Green Bay Packers and the NFC North to be the highest-paid player in NFL history, Russell Wilson being traded to the Denver Broncos, and how gambling is impacting the NFL with Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Calvin Ridley gets suspended for betting on NFL games. (3:50) - Did anyone in Chicago believe Aaron Rodgers was leaving the division? (10:00) - Who can challenge the Packers in the NFC? (24:00) - Russell Wilson is traded to the Denver Broncos (33:34) - Calvin Ridley gets suspended for gambling on NFL games See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mitch Trubisky enters the news cycle again as he enters free agency with multiple teams reported to be interested. Can Mitch change his career narrative? Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro discuss Trubisky and where they think he might land and where they think his career will end up. Later in the pod, the guys discuss the NFL Combine and if the Bears should think about moving up in the draft to take Justin Fields' former teammate Chris Olave. (10:20) - Where will Mitch Trubisky land? (15:00) - Player comparison, is Mitch Trubisky Marcus Mariota? (21:10) - Should the Bears try and pair Chris Olave and Justin Fields? (28:00) - What should we expect from Ryan Poles in his first draft? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a surprising but not so surprising move, the Dallas Cowboys released wide receiver, Amari Cooper, making him available via free agency. With the uncertainty about Allen Robinson and the Bears' obvious need for playmakers along side Justin Fields, should he be a must-have for the Bears this offseason? Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro discuss Cooper and if he can be the next number 1 target for Justin Fields and what they think GM Ryan Poles should do. (7:00) - Should Amari Cooper be the Bears' first target in free agency? (12:00) - What makes Cooper so good? (15:50) - Is Cooper better than Allen Robinson? (19:40) - Will Ryan Poles address the WR position in free agency or the draft? (26:20) - Who will be available in the draft in the second round for the Bears? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The NFL Combine is in full effect as teams get prepared for this year's NFL Draft including new Bears GM and head coach Ryan Poles and Matt Eberflus. They speak to the media about what they are looking for and how they are looking to build. Ken Davis, Adam Hoge, and Alex Shapiro react to the comments made by the GM and coach on how they are attacking the combine, what they like about the current roster, and philosophy going forward. (2:20) - Ryan Poles speaks about the current roster (11:00) - Poles is looking to find a quicker and lighter offensive lineman (22:30) - Should the Bears trade Khalil Mack for more draft picks (30:00) - How will Ryan Poles handle Bears free agents like Allen Robinson? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In part two of this series, Ken Davis continues the interview with former Bears quarterback Erik Kramer as they discuss the lowest point of his life, his attempted suicide in a hotel room that should have cost his life. Later in the pod, Kramer also discusses how his ex-wife defrauded him and had him arrested. The Erik Kramer story is certainly an interesting tale, but in the end, he still continues to work in his community and is getting better every day. (1:00) - Erik Kramer on being in a hotel room with a gun ready to take his own life (15:10) - Kramer discusses how he was defrauded for thousands of dollars (26:00) - Kramer on being falsely arrested (45:30) - Kramer describes what it's like to prevent himself from going into another dark place in his head See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The story of Erik Kramer is one of triumph but also of pain. The former Bears quarterback and holder of one of the greatest individual seasons in Bears history joins Ken Davis in a two-part series to discuss his career in the NFL, the death of his parents, the tragic death of his son, his battle with depression, and how he's fighting every day to improve. (2:30) - Kramer discusses his Bears career and the magical 1995 season (11:30) - Breaking down Justin Fields as a quarterback (17:15) - Kramer on recognizing he needed help mentally in 1994 (25:00) - Kramer discusses his relationship with his parents (30:00) - Losing a son (39:00) - Kramer on the strides he's making and how he's helping others See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over the course of Super Bowl week, we had some interviews that were just too good to keep out. Adam Hoge sits and talks with Hall of Famer Jimbo Covert on Devin Hester not making it this year, then he has a conversation with Bears running back Khalil Herbert on his rookie season and his new GM and coach, and to wrap up, Hoge is joined by former NFL running back Shaun Alexander about Justin Fields adjusting to a new coach and being a franchise player. (1:10) - Jim Covert discusses the Hall of Fame and Devin Hester missing the cut this year (9:35) - Khalil Herbert discusses his rookie season and his new coach and GM (19:00) - Shaun Alexander discuss his new program Café Momentum and how Justin Fields can adjust to a new coach and situation See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The LA Rams won the Super Bowl in a great game and we discuss it all. Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro discuss the Rams coming out on top at the end of the season, they break down their thoughts on the game, and discuss if the Halftime show lived up to the hype. (1:00) - End game officiating of the Super Bowl (5:30) - Odell Beckham Jr.'s knee injury in the first half (9:50) - What if scenario, what if Aaron Donald was a Bear vs Khalil Mack? (15:00) - Where do you rank the halftime show? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a jam-packed episode of Under Center, the full strength of the NBCS Chicago Bears team was used. First up, Ken Davis and Eric Strobel discuss Devin Hester missing the Hall of Fame this year, then Ken and Adam Hoge are joined by legendary Bear Dick Butkus as he gives STRONG takes on the state of the Bears. After that, Adam is joined by FOX NFL insider Jay Glazer, and to wrap it up, Matt Ryan makes an appearance to discuss Ryan Poles. I ran out of breath just typing this. (2:00) - Did Devin Hester deserve to be a first-ballot Hall of Famer? (12:16) - Dick Butkus with Ken Davis and Adam Hoge (34:35) - Jay Glazer sits with Adam Hoge (45:07) - Matt Ryan joins Adam Hoge See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

McMahon and Payton are legendary names in Chicago and we bring them in on today's episode of the Under Center podcast. Live from Super Bowl 56, Adam Hoge is joined by Super Bowl winning quarterback Jim McMahon and the son of the legendary running back Walter Payton, Jarrett Payton joins Adam Hoge on Radio Row in LA to discuss the NFL and the Bears. McMahon talks about the swag comparison between himself and Joe Burrow, and Payton discusses his thoughts on the Pace/Nagy era and the new era of Bears football. (4:10) - Jim McMahon on the swagger of Joe Burrow (6:00) - McMahon on wishing the Bears used Walter Payton like current rbs (9:22) - Jarrett Payton joins Adam Hoge on Radio Row (14:00) - Reviewing the Pace/Nagy era See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Live from Radio Row for Super Bowl 56, Adam Hoge is joined by senior NFL writer for the Ringer, Kevin Clark to discuss how to build a winning organization. The guys break down what makes an NFL team successful in the current age of football, how the Bears can build around a young talented quarterback, and much more! (2:00) - Building a culture (6:35) - Why so many coaching changes around the NFL, including the Bears (12:20) - Building around Justin Fields (18:00) - Should the Bears have hired an offensive head coach? (23:00) - Super Bowl predictions See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's Super Bowl week and that means great interviews and conversations about the Bears and the NFL every day this week. For today, Ken Davis is joined by former Kansas City Chiefs offensive lineman and current cohost of the Bleav in Chiefs podcast on the Bleav podcast network, Joe Valerio who discusses who Ryan Poles was in the Kansas City Chiefs organization and what type of GM he will be with the Bears. They also discuss how and why the Chiefs lost to the AFC champion Bengals and a lot more! (1:30) - Valerio on when Ryan Poles started to make a name for himself as a potential NFL executive (10:00) - How will Poles scout offensive linemen? (17:30) - Analyzing the Bears roster, does Ryan Poles have players to work with? (23:10) - Why hasn't Chiefs offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy gotten a head coaching job? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a very timely appearance, Super Bowl champion, Hall of Famer, and NFL analyst for NBC Sports, Tony Dungy returns to the Under Center podcast as he joins Ken Davis to discuss all the latest news on the Bears and the NFL. Dungy discusses the new Bears GM Ryan Poles and his thoughts on Matt Eberflus, his thoughts on his former assistant and Bears head coach Lovie Smith becoming the new Texans head coach, and does a deep dive into the Brian Flores lawsuit against the NFL for racial discrimination. (1:30) - Dungy on Ryan Poles and Matt Eberflus (4:50) - Dungy has an open discussion on Black coaches in the NFL and the Brian Flores lawsuit. (10:00) - Dungy on if the hiring practices of the NFL weighs on him See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The biggest news in the NFL is coach Brian Flores starting a class-action lawsuit against the Miami Dolphins, the Denver Broncos, the New York Giants, and the NFL for racial discrimination in their hiring process of minority candidates. Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Alex Shapiro discuss the explosive news and is the NFL in for major changes as a result. (7:14) - Brian Flores files a class-action suit against the NFL (19:00) - Will the NFL's hiring practices change (27:30) - The stats say there aren't enough black coaches and executives in the NFL (39:20) - Will gambling on football be impacted if allegations of paying coaches to lose are true? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The new era of Bears football begins as new GM Ryan Poles and new coach Matt Eberflus are introduced. Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, Alex Shapiro, and Tony Gill react to the introductory press conference. They discuss what stood out to them, fan reaction, and if this era will be different for the Bears this time. (2:40) - First reactions to the press conference (16:00) - Eberflus was Poles' guy from the beginning (27:00) - Thoughts on what kind of GM Ryan Poles will be (44:00) - Eberflus and Poles don't mention Justin Fields a lot during the press conference (59:30) - Contract lengths not announced for Poles and Eberflus (1:05:40) - Did the Bears go after Jim Harbaugh? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Under Center Podcast crew discusses the Chicago Bears hiring Matt Eberflus to be their new head coach. It's new general manager Ryan Poles' big first hire since accepting the job earlier this week. On the podcast, Ken Davis, Adam Hoge, Olin Kreutz, and David Kaplan break it all down. Later in the pod, Ken is joined by Eric Strobel and Alex Shapiro as they react to the news as well. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Chicago Bears have reportedly hired Chiefs’ Assistant Director of Player Personnel Ryan Poles as their next general manager. On the Under Center Podcast, host Ken Davis, former Bears coach Dave Wannstedt, Football Aftershow host David Kaplan and Bears insider Adam Hoge break down the move and what it means for the Bears and Justin Fields going forward. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

OMG! We are still hyped about this past weekend in the NFL and the hope is can the Bears get there too? Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Tony Gill recap the games from this weekend from laughing at the Green Bay Packers to the greatest game we've ever seen in Chiefs vs Bills. The guys also discuss the coaching candidates that played this weekend and which one would they prefer to coach the Bears. FOOTBALL IS AWESOME!! (1:00) - Was Chiefs vs Bills the greatest game of all time? (10:00) - Brady almost does it again vs the Rams (19:20) - Should the NFL change the overtime rules? (30:00) - What does another playoff loss do to Aaron Rodgers' legacy? (45:00) - Potential Bears coachign candidates See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears continue their ongoing search for a new coach and GM but it seems like they are honing in on the coach first with Colts defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus being reported to already be a finalist. Ken Davis, Alex Shapiro, and Adam Hoge discuss the Bears and which candidates fans should be looking at as the search continues. They also break down if it means anything that Colts executive Ed Dodds withdraws his name from consideration for Bears GM. (1:00) - Ed Dodds withdraws his name from consideration. Does this mean anything? (6:35) - What is the Bears' process? Are they hiring the coach before the GM? (12:20) - Which candidates should fans keep an eye on for GM? (16:00) - Matt Eberflus might be a finalist already for the Bears See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears brass are interviewing any and everyone they can to fill their GM and head coach positions and one of the teams the Bears are looking into picking off from are the Indianapolis Colts. So returning to the podcast is JJ Stankevitz beat writer for Colts.com and former host of the Under Center podcast to discuss with Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Alex Shapiro on GM candidates Ed Dobbs and Morocco Brown, and defensive coordinator Matt Eberflus. (3:50) - JJ compares covering the Colts vs covering the Bears (8:50) - Ironic that the Bears are picking off talent from former Bear executive Chris Ballard (18:20) - What is Chris Ballard like running the Colts (27:00) - Who is Matt Eberflus and why would he be a good head coach? (44:35) - Interesting ways the Colts have built their team to be playoff contenders See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Time for a full post-game breakdown ladies and gents on the Bears' number one starter, George Halas McCaskey. George put up some crazy numbers with two long awkward pauses, three bad jokes, one of the most awkward transitions we've seen, and a key takedown of one of the great Bears in Olin Kreutz. Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Alex Shapiro discuss McCaskey's game and if he's ready to be the leader the Bears need him to be going forward. BEAR DOWN! (1:20) -Initial reactions to McCaskey's performance in the clutch (14:20) -Has McCaskey put the right team around him to execute the "Game Plan"? (24:50) - George's strategy of questioning Olin Kreutz's character. "Let's see if it works out Cotton" (35:00) - Did George give up too much of the "Game Plan" by telling everyone his playbook, The Game Plan: The Art of Building a Winning Football Team by Bill Polian, sold everywhere books are sold? (45:00) - Who should be McCaskey's new head football coach? (55:00) - Has McCaskey looked over his film of past performances and learned from them? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In an official statement from the team, the Bears have relieved both general manager Ryan Pace and head coach Matt Nagy from their duties, and thus another era of Bears football is terminated. Ken Davis, David Kaplan, Adam Hoge, and Dave Wannstedt discuss the news and break down what they expect to happen for the next couple of days as the search for a new era of Bears football begins. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The season is officially over and boy was the last showing a one to remember. Or forget depending on how you look at it. Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Alex Shapiro discuss the loss to the Vikings and how will the Bears change for the future. The guys also break down who stays and who goes between Matt Nagy and Ryan Pace as their end-of-season press conferences were announced by the Bears "will be announced at a later time". So yea, Bear down? (3:30) - Will the Bears fire anybody on Monday? (9:40) - Matt Nagy goes out his way in the final game of the season (15:50) - Should Matt Nagy have played the younger players as the season started to end? (26:40) - Has it been hard for Matt Nagy, knowing he could be fired? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears' final game of the year is a matchup against the division-rival Vikings and it would have been nice to get one last look at Justin Fields though but he's entering the league's safety protocol and will miss the last game. Ken Davis and Adam Hoge discuss the Bears' plan for the final game and they break down what will become of Matt Nagy after the game as he preps to potentially coach his last game for the Bears. (2:40) - Justin Fields is out, how should the Bears fans watch this game (8:00) - What's next for Matt Nagy after the Bears? (14:00) - Who should Bears fans look at to be the next head coach? (21:10) - Will Ryan Pace still be the Bears' GM? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

We've officially shifted to offseason mode as the Bears prepare for their last game of the season and might be the last game for Matt Nagy. Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Alex Shapiro discuss the rumor that the McCaskey family is talking with NFL veteran executive Bill Polian and hall of fame coach Tony Dungy on the organization's lack of success in the hiring ranks. Later in the pod, the guys also break down the snap counts for the young players in the last game, and possible key cuts the Bears will make in the offseason. (6:15) - How is it the McCaskey's still need help on football decisions? (14:00) - What will become of Ted Phillips? (22:00) - Snap counts for younger players should be going up not down (30:00) - Will Eddie Goldman be a Bear next year? (34:30) - Bears' cap situation See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears beat the Giants. Sorry for the spoiler alert. In bigger news, after only 2 sacks in his first year in the uniform, Robert Quinn came back with a vengeance and breaks Richard Dent's single season sack record at 18 sacks on the season. Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Alex Shapiro break down the accomplishment and discuss Quinn's record breaking season. Later in the pod, the crew also discusses the comparisons between the Bears and Giants, and Antonio Brown's break down in the middle of a game. (1:50) - Robert Quinn breaks Richard Dent's record from 17.5 to 18 sacks in a single season (10:00) - Comparing Dent to Quinn (16:00) - Bears media have a moment for Jeff Dickerson (28:00) - Comparing the suckage, Giants vs Bears (38:00) - Antonio Brown, Antonio Browns all over the Bucs See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Jeff Dickerson was a staple in Chicago so Adam Hoge joins the podcast to discuss his friend and the memories he has of him. Later in the podcast, the guys discuss Mike Glennon playing against the Bears in a high stakes matchup (lol) as he seeks revenge for the Mitch Trubisky drafting. *If you or someone you know would like to donate to Jeff Dickerson's son Parker, please click this link HERE and support JD's legacy (1:40) - Adam Hoge remembers Jeff Dickerson (12:30) - The impact Jeff Dickerson had on Chicago (19:40) - Stories about Jeff (33:00) - Mike Glennon revenge game See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On the same day we lost 2 significant figures, the legend, John Madden, and more closely, ESPN Chicago's Bears beat reporter Jeff Dickerson. Ken Davis and Eric Strobel discuss the lives of these two men and their impact on football fans in Chicago. Later in the podcast, the guys sound off on Matt Nagy being still employed by the Bears despite rumors that he would be fired. *If you or someone you know would like to donate to Jeff Dickerson's son Parker, please click this link HERE and support JD's legacy (1:30) - Remebering Jeff Dickerson (16:50) - Remembering the legend of John Madden (27:40) - Matt Nagy is still the coach of the Bears (42:00) - Will Ryan Pace be able to hire another head coach? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

So the Bears won and improve to 5-10 cool. We're good with that. The more interesting conversation is did Nick Foles really save Matt Nagy's job this week? Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Alex Shapiro discuss the win, for a little bit, but discuss what the win means for Matt Nagy and Nick Foles for the rest of the year, what will the offseason look like, and everything regarding the Bears other than this game. (2:30) - Matt Nagy gets aggressive on 2pt conversions and 4th downs (11:40) - Analyzing Nick Foles vs Andy Dalton. (Yep, this is where we are Bears fans) (21:00) - What is the real fate of Matt Nagy (30:00) - What is Ryan Pace's role in all of this. Is he still the GM? (40:40) - Should Roquan have been a pro bowler? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In a weird full circle event the Bears are playing the Seattle Seahawks, a team they were heavily engaged with in trade talks for superstar quarterback Russell Wilson. We all know the story and how it turned out for both teams, but who won the "non trade"? Ken Davis, Alex Shapiro, and Tony Gill discuss the almost trade and how it impacted both teams and who ended up winning? The guys also breakdown the upcoming matchup and if Matt Nagy will improve on his play calling from last week, is Justin Fields improving week to week, and a lot more. (7:20) - The Seahawks' disappointing season (15:00) - Is Justin Fields improving? (22:30) - Can Matt Nagy improve on his play calling vs the Seahawks? (36:00) - Who won the non trade? The Bears or the Seahawks? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears drop to 4-10 on the season after losing on Monday Night Football to the Minnesota Vikings 17-9. Matt Nagy took over play calling again on the offense but was there a difference? Ken Davis and Alex Shapiro break down the game including the spectacular play of the defense, the flags that littered the field against the Bears, and a lot more. (2:00) - Analyzing Justin Fields' play. Did his end of game stats look better than what we saw on the field? (13:30) - Matt Nagy's handling of Justin Fields (21:00) - Should Matt Nagy have tried more field goals vs going for it on 4th down? (29:00) - So many flags against the Bears. SO MANY! (35:00) - The Bears defense came to play See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With few games left the focus has been on the future for the Bears. Alex Brown joins Ken Davis and Eric Strobel to discuss if the Bears have the proper pieces to win in the long term. The guys also have a very honest conversation about the future of Matt Nagy and Ryan Pace, what needs to happen in the offseason, comparing the 2018 defense to the 2005-2006 Bears defense, they preview the Vikings game, and a lot more. (2:20) - Final breakdown of the Bears vs Packers (12:30) - Was the 2018 Bears defense special or just good? (20:00) - Alex on how deep the Bears vs Packers rivalry goes (28:30) - Are there enough pieces on the Bears to have a bright future? (41:00) - Bears vs Vikings preview (50:20) - What is the expectation for the off-season? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears season is done, no playoffs, no chance, no shot, no way. Since that's the case, how should the Bears operate going forward and in the immediate future? Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Adam Hoge discuss the issues with the Bears, they compare and contrast the Green Bay Packers and how the Bears can get to where they are, and they get into potential candidates that can run the Bears and push them into the future. (1:30) - Bears executives and coaches records against the Green Bay Packers? (8:00) - How far are the Bears from the Packers? (16:30) - Why has Trace Armstrong's name been brought up with the Bears? (22:00) - Is Justin Fields progressing despite all the issues around him? (33:00) - Matt Nagy's in game adjustments were lacking again See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It was fun...while it lasted on Sunday Night Football, then the second half happened and 3 whole points where scored. Ken Davis, Eric Strobel, and Alex Shapiro discuss what seemed to be a last breathe for the Bears in the Sunday Night Football matchup vs the Packers, including what worked in the first half, and the systematic breakdown of the second half. (1:30) - Bears came out hot in the first half. What went right? (9:00) - Did the Nagy punt on 4th and inches suggest he's given up? (20:00) - Nagy has had issues in his career to adjust in game (28:00) - What is the future of Sean Desai? (32:00) - Should there be concern for Justin Fields? (41:00) - Is there any truth to Trace Armstrong becoming new team president? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The Bears are set to play their final game against the Pack this season as Justin Fields is back and ready to go, but can they pull off the upset? NBC's Sunday Night Football analyst and Hall of Famer, Tony Dungy joins host Ken Davis to discuss the Bears vs Pack and what the Bears need to get done to get the win in Green Bay. Later on in the pod, they discuss Matt Nagy and the precarious position he's in as Bears coach, and they discuss Dungy's career including the influence Dennis Green had on him. (1:00) - Have the Bears done a good enough job with Justin Fields? (6:20) - Can the Bears pull off the upset can Matt Nagy save his job? (14:00) - Tony Dungy's coaching career and the movement for black coaches (21:50) - Best defensive player Dungy's ever coached See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

With so much drama and off the field headlines taking over much of the narrative on the Bears some may have forgotten that this is packer week. But in the larger picture, does this game still have meaning? Eric Strobel and Adam Hoge discuss the upcoming Sunday Night matchup and what should fans expect. The guys also discuss what may be next for Matt Nagy and discuss the Bulls rebuild and can the Bears make the same changes necessary to make significant progress. (2:00) - When will the next home win be for the Bears (7:50) - Is this Matt Nagy's last stand as Bears coach? (14:50) - Does this game still matter? (18:34) - Will the Bears pull off major changes like the Bulls did? See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.