For me, the Chicago Bears 2013 season started off as a blur. A concussion that ended my preseason and a pay cut that docked $1 Million was not a great start. Though the season started off rocky, things picked up during week seven when QB #2 entered the game.
There are some players who are prepared to play every single game. Who know the offense like the back of their hands. This was QB #2. When QB #1 went down there was no doubt we were in good hands, because QB #2 had been waiting on his moment.
Everyone in the organization knew I had taken a pay cut. All you had to do was read ESPN or the Chicago Tribune and it was there. I never fretted over the cut, but QB #2 apparently was disgusted by the move. After the injury to QB #1, QB #2 approached me and said, “We are going to get your money back.” I was shocked that even this far into the season he still was cognizant of my pay cut.
His presence in the huddle was unmatched. Just because he was QB #2 did not mean he didn’t hold himself as a starter. During the Dallas game, Receiver #1 entered the huddle and stated, “Throw me the ball.” QB #2 politely asked him to “Shut up and just run the play.” This type of mentality proved that not only was he prepared from a statistical standpoint, but he was mentally prepared too. Good deeds on/off the field and his competitiveness to challenge anyone was what made QB #2 excel. His 13 touchdowns and 1 interception, leadership and high character gave him the backing of 99% of the receivers to finish the season as a starter. Though he would eventually become QB #1 most of the receivers wished it was a lot sooner and with the Bears.
#StoryTimeWithEarl