It’s hard to fathom that a guy standing 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 275 pounds could get lost in obscurity. That’s what happens when you’re on the same special-teams unit as Devin Hester.
Regardless of the situation, big Israel Idonije continues to make a name for himself despite not being one the Bears’ regulars. The reserve defensive lineman blocked a field-goal attempt for the second consecutive game, the biggest special-teams play on a relatively tough night for that unit.
Hester was silenced by Dallas, with punter Mat McBriar sailing punts deep and the Cowboys’ coverage team right in Hester’s face. One week after an amazing series of returns against Kansas City, Hester was held to 1 yard on two returns. He had 86 yards on five kickoff returns. Twice, Hester mishandled returns.
And this was a night the Bears’ definitely could have used a big play from Hester.
At least Idonije gave special-teams coach Dave Toub something to talk about this week. Immediately after Dallas receiver Patrick Crayton committed the ultimate receiver’s sin — dropping a wide-open, sure touchdown pass from Tony Romo in the end zone — Idonije made certain his team didn’t go into halftime trailing. Cowboys kicker Nick Folk lined up for a 23-yard field goal, but Idonije blasted right up the gut, stuck up his paw and deflected the kick. Adam Archuleta picked up the loose ball and scooted 48 yards.
But, as was the theme of the first half, the Bears’ offense couldn’t capitalize. The ensuing drive ended in a questionable fake field-goal attempt during which kicker Robbie Gould almost got himself killed while failing to complete the pass.
Mark Bradley nearly blocked a McBriar second-quarter punt, but Bradley mysteriously missed despite being right in position. McBriar calmly sailed the ball 43 yards on a play that should have put the Bears in perfect position to score.
