Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of questions from fans on ChicagoBears.com.
The touchdown pass that quarterback Nick Foles caught in the Super Bowl came on what looked like an identical play the Bears ran last season. Did the Eagles steal it from the Bears?
Harold K.
Harwood Heights, Illinois
I think "steal" is a strong word, but the Eagles definitely, let's say, "borrowed" the play from the Bears. Ironically, the Bears ran the play in the same stadium and even in the same end zone in the 2016 season finale against the Vikings. Jeremy Langford took the direct snap and pitched the ball to Cameron Meredith, who threw it to quarterback Matt Barkley for a touchdown in a loss to the Vikings. The Eagles ran the play with running back Corey Clement taking the direct snap and pitching the ball to tight end Trey Burton, who tossed it to an uncovered Foles for a touchdown. Here's what Eagles offensive coordinator Frank Reich said after the game: "There's several different variations of that play that we've seen people run. We were in particular copying the Bears' version of it."
I was so excited to hear that Brian Urlacher was voted into the Hall of Fame on his first try. But the most important question is whether his bust will be bald or have hair on it.
Tyler P.
Oceanside, California
Funny thing, Tyler, is I asked Brian the same question Saturday when I was lucky enough to be in his hotel room in Minneapolis when he found out he had been voted into the Hall of Fame. (Check out the video on our website if you haven't seen it yet.) Urlacher plans on having a bald bust in Canton, Ohio, because that's what he looked like for the majority of his illustrious career. And I think that's the right decision. It's an iconic look that best represents him as a player.
Who do you think will be the next former Bears player elected into the Hall of Fame?
Jim L.
Peoria, Illinois
I would love to see former centers Jay Hilgenberg and Olin Kreutz receive some Hall of Fame consideration—both dominated at their position for a period of years, or perhaps have a senior finalist such as defensive end Ed Sprinkle get in. But if I had to guess I would say that Devin Hester will be the next former Bears player inducted into the Hall of Fame. He remains the best return specialist in NFL history, and for that reason I believe he deserves a spot in Canton.
