So Lovie Smith got his guy Mike Martz after all. As stated numerous times on this blog, Martz is not the best hire for this job. Since everyone else who had the chance to take it (figuratively) urinated on the Bears, might as well give it to the guy who actually wants it right? That's pretty much what has happened here, and what is still currently happening with the open defensive coordinator position...but that's a whole other big bag of monkey turds...One thing The Beard will say in favor of Martz, he hasn't forgotten how to say the right things when he gets a new job. He did some big time kissing, and came back gushing about his meeting with Jay Cutler. Using words such as "...better than anticipated..." and "...instant connection..." to describe his encounter with Jay. What was particularly interesting to hear, was how surprised he was that Cutler has the mind and recognition of a ten year veteran already. That's a pretty good start to a honeymoon. Who knows how long the good feelings will last? Odds are, not very long...
He then said some things that are flat out fibs however. Things like comparing Matt Forte to Marshall Faulk, and insisting Greg Olsen will be featured in his offense, even though that's blatantly not true. Don't believe me? Go ask Vernon Davis of the San Francisco 49ers, who mysteriously busted out for 78 receptions, 13 TD's, and made the Pro Bowl the very next season after the Niners (specifically Mike Singletary) fired Martz. Mike Martz's scheme is heavily dependent on blocking Tight Ends, and Greg Olsen is very far from that.
That being said though, Martz is at the very least enthusiastic about what he has available, and the task he has in front of him. He seems to understand this is not a long term project, and that the goal is to win right now. He is sure to butt heads with Cutler and plenty of other players and coaches along the way, but that doesn't necessarily mean anything. It will come down to his understanding of personnel, focusing on what they do well, what they do poorly, adapting his scheme to maximize the best plays for success, and make sure Mike Tice gets this offensive line ready to be able to block people for 7 seconds each play. Here's hoping for the best, but preparing for the worst.
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