Sunday, November 27, 2011

Bear Down Sunday #11 Raiders

The Chicago Bears (7-3) are in Oakland facing the Raiders (6-4).  The surprisingly good Raiders are lead by the recently acquired Carson Palmer.  Getting Palmer was certainly a season-saving trade.
After the injury to Jay Cutler, the Bears are hoping for a little season-saving magic of their own.  They haven't signed a new quarterback yet.  They are counting on third year man Caleb Hanie, who has thrown 14 passes in his three year career.
Actually, Hanie has thrown 14 passes in the regular season and 20 in the 2010 NFC championship game.  Hanie went 13-20 in the game, almost leading the Bears to a victory over the Packers.  A couple of offensive near-misses and some questionable calls by Mike Martz were the Bears undoing.
I met Hanie earlier this year at AU Sports (the best place for sports memorabilia).  Hanie entered AU to a round of applause.  He looked smaller than his reported 6'2" 235 pound billing, but he definitely looked in great shape.
Hanie was great, especially with the younger kids.  He gladly posed for photos with anyone and answered all questions with patience and thought.  (Bears fans can ask some repetitive questions at times.)  The fans walked away happy after meeting Hanie.  Kudos to him for being a great athlete guest (and kudos to AU for hosting yet another great athlete appearance.)
Good luck to Hanie as he embarks on a very important part of his career and the Bears season.
Caleb Hanie and me in Niles, IL-Summer 2011.

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