Wondering about a player, a past game or another issue involving the Bears? Senior writer Larry Mayer answers a variety of email questions from fans on ChicagoBears.com.
Who do you think will be the next Bears player inducted into the Hall of Fame?
Andrew D.
Frankfort, Kentucky
I don't think there's any doubt that it will be Brian Urlacher. He played dominant football on a very good defense and was among the best at his position for more than a decade with the Bears. He last played in 2012, which would make him eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2017. It's going to be interesting to see how much consideration Devin Hester gets. Many believe he's the greatest kick returner in NFL history and I think it helps him that a punter (Ray Guy) finally made it to Canton. I've always been perplexed why center Jay Hilgenberg's name is never mentioned in conjunction with the Hall of Fame. He anchored one of the best offensive lines in league history and started seven straight Pro Bowls.
I'm glad to see the Metrodome gone. It seems like the Bears didn't have a whole lot of success there, especially in recent years. What was their record in the Metrodome?
Jacob V.
Chicago, Illinois
The Bears were 12-20 against the Vikings in the Metrodome from 1982-2013. Their biggest win came on Jan. 1, 1995 when they upset Minnesota 35-18 in the first round of the playoffs. The Bears won just two of their final 11 games in the Metrodome from 2002-13. The home team has won 21 of the last 25 overall meetings between the two longtime division rivals.
Who do you think was the Bears' biggest Pro Bowl snub?
Allen G.
Elmhurst, Illinois
I definitely think that running back Kyle Long should have been selected. He's been the best player on the Bears this season and ranks third in the NFL with 1,772 yards from scrimmage. Forte may be the best all-around running back in the NFL when you consider his ability to run, catch passes and block. But I actually think the Bears' biggest Pro Bowl snub was tight end Martellus Bennett, whose 82 receptions are tied with the Patriots' Rob Gronkowski and the Panthers' Greg Olsen for the most in the league by a tight end. Bennett also has six touchdowns, the same number as Olsen.
