A Cloak Of Disappointment

I almost took today off in honor of Martin Luther King Day, but somehow that didn't seem right.

I spent the whole day yesterday attending the Chicago Bears Playoff game at the new and improved Soldier Field. The day couldn't have started out better. It was sunny and 40 degrees, which for Chicago seemed like a miracle. We all took that as a sign that good things were going to happen and fortune, like the sun would shine on the Monsters of the Midway.

My brothers have season tickets and I was able to score one. They always have kick ass tailgate parties and yesterday was no exception. Food, beer and laughs were in good supply and the crowd was buzzing with anticipation. "Super Bears in the Super Bowl" was the favorite cheer in the parking lot. There were even more women in attendance which always makes the scenery brighter. As we made our way to our seats, you could feel the energy from the crowd. This was going to be great.

The problem was that the Bears decided not to show up. I guess our number one defense was starting to believe their own press. Unfortunately, the Carolina Panthers don't read the Tribune or the Sun Times and didn't realize that the Bears defense couldn't be beaten. Did the guys think that they could knock the Panthers over with press clippings? I'm also calling for an immediate audit of punter Brad Maynard's bank account for any unusual deposits. I don't believe anyone can kick that badly without financial incentives. I guess I can see the wisdom of having a rookie cover the Panthers best receiver. Who am I kidding that was the worst decision I've seen since I decided to buy those blue and orange Zuba pants in '85.

The offense did score three touchdowns. That gave rise to the old standby of Chicago sports fans...."There's always next year." Later....Brian