Bears quarterback Rex Grossman must have not been watching the same games that everyone else was over the last three weeks. How else could you explain his remarks yesterday after learning that he was no longer the starting QB for the Bears, and that he was going to be replaced by Brian Griese? Grossman seemed shocked at the notion that coach Lovie Smith would sit him after going 1-2 and throwing six interceptions in three games.
“I was surprised but [felt] frustration,” Grossman said after practice as the No. 2 quarterback. “You have to move on and realize at any point you could be back out there. If that’s the case, I’ll play my best and get a rhythm going.”
A rhythm was exactly what Grossman was UNABLE to get going in games against the Chargers, Chiefs and Cowboys. Each time the defense held its own, Grossman faltered. When the defense needed to be picked up, Grossman was unable to get the job done. “I’m frustrated, but at the same time I had a job to do and I’m going to prepare as if I’m starting and be ready if needed,” Grossman said. “I can’t really comment on the decision. All I can do is do my job.”
For now, Grossman ought to just take a breath and realize that he is not playing anywhere near he needs to in order to lead Chicago back to the Super Bowl. It was a move that needed to be made, and Smith made the right one in sitting Grossman for at least the next few weeks. Offensive coordinator Ron Turner seems to think that Grossman will rebound from his demotion.
“I think Rex is going to sit back and take a little time and continue to prepare,” Turner said. “He’s a professional, he has a lot of class and will do the right thing. This game is crazy. I’m sure he’ll have another opportunity at some point and there’s no doubt in my mind he’ll take advantage.”