Tribune staff reporter John Mullin turns in his report card for Sunday’s game.
Offense
OFFENSIVE LINE
The line struggled with Atlanta’s speed and could not establish control despite a hefty size advantage. But Bears took over as game wore on.
GRADE: B+
RECEIVERS
Bernard Berrian contributed a first-down catch in the second quarter, then sprung an end-around for 37 yards with a block from Justin Gage. Muhsin Muhammad came alive when Grossman entered.
GRADE: B
QUARTERBACK
Kyle Orton missed open receivers throughout a 2-for-10 first half, enough to get him benched for Rex Grossman, whose 22-yard strike to Muhsin Muhammad on the first pass lit up the Bears and the stadium.
Grades: Orton F, Grossman B+
GRADES: F/B+
RUNNING BACKS
Thomas Jones fought for 56 rushing yards in the first half, including a 31-yard sprint, and capped Grossman’s second drive with a TD run. Jason McKie caught two passes through the first three quarters.
GRADE: B
SPECIAL TEAMS
Robbie Gould converted three field goals. Berrian’s 24-yard punt return gave field position. Coverage units again strong.
GRADE: B+
COACHING
Switching to Grossman went against the plan but was necessary. Bears contained Vick and showed discipline throughout.
GRADE: A-
Defense
SECONDARY
Mike Green intercepted a Vick pass, and Brandon McGowan provided strong run support in his first start. Coverage forced Vick to scramble.
Grade: B+
LINEBACKERS
Lance Briggs and Brian Urlacher delivered impact hits, and Leon Joe performed well in his first start. Urlacher also broke up a pass.
Grade: A-
DEFENSIVE LINE
Pursuit by the front four forced Vick wide on his rollouts and took away easy breakaways. Adewale Ogunleye sacked Vick, and Alex Brown batted down a pass.
Grade: A-
