For pure drama, sure, the next episode of “The T.O. Show” might offer more suspense than Saturday night’s Bears-Bills exhibition. Reality-TV star and part-time wide receiver Terrell Owens won’t even play because of a sprained toe, though maybe the Twitter addict will tweet commentary from the sideline to keep things interesting.
Regardless, visitors from Chicago here for the game still are curious about more than whether their Buffalo cab driver will unlock the doors before the fare is paid.
In order of importance, here are five things to watch closest.
The Jay Cutler Show: It isn’t televised on VH1, like Owens’ life, but Cutler’s impact on his new team has been must-see. Cutler may take only about 15 snaps, but that should be enough of a glimpse to excite Bears fans. Notice the way Cutler takes charge of the huddle and line of scrimmage, and the way the team’s tempo seems quicker. The arm strength will be obvious. But the biggest difference, besides the accuracy and velocity on passes, has been the way Cutler keeps plays alive with mobility that buys him time to put the ball where he needs to.
Pressure and penetration of defensive front four: Exhibitions rarely include complex blitzes or stunts, but the Bears defensive line still considers this an opportunity to show new position coach Rod Marinelli his way is working. The Bears defensive linemen speak as if they never had been taught to react to offensive keys — a story for another day — but Marinelli will be grading recognition, effort and execution. It should be the most improved position group on the field, even if Tommie Harris doesn’t play.
Can somebody in secondary make a play on the ball? Bears defensive backs haven’t been out of position during training camp as much as they have failed to take advantage when they get there. Some of that has to do with Cutler’s accuracy, but some of it revolves around a group still lacking aggressiveness that comes with confidence. Nathan Vasher and Craig Steltz need to make some plays. Al Afalava has a chance to separate himself if he shows he can play at an NFL pace.
Offensive line push: Left tackle Orlando Pace largely has been what the Bears expected (very largely). Left guard Frank Omiyale has not, yet, and trails Josh Beekman in their battle. Overlooked on the right side has been the steady development of Chris Williams. Stalwarts Olin Kreutz and Roberto Garza give the offensive line a chance to be the most consistent part of the offense.
Which backup will emerge? Last year, it was quarterback Caleb Hanie — who has a lot riding on this game, come to think of it. Of the wide receiving corps, rookies Juaquin Iglesias and Johnny Knox and second-year man Devin Aromashodu are good candidates to capture the imagination in the second half. Aromashodu might conjure memories of former camp teases Jamin Elliott and Kenny Christian. Cornerback D.J. Moore will get a shot to become this year’s Trumaine McBride.
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dhaugh@tribune.com
