DT Matt Toeaina Struggles In Victory, Maybe It’s Time For Tommie Harris To Start
Published by Jake Perper on November 17, 2010
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears
DT Tommie Harris was benched in favor of DT Matt Toeaina in the beginning of the season and Toeaina has quietly filled the gaps since then. But last Sunday against the Vikings it was obvious Toeaina was struggling.
After making 13 tackles in the four games leading up to the game against the Bills, Toeaina has made only one tackle in each of his last two games.
Two of the longest runs against the Bears by the Vikings running backs came on hand offs right up the middle. Toeaina played in four games in the last three seasons, making a total of six tackles.
If Toeaina is failing to plug the holes and even get pressure on the quarterback, I think it’s time to give more playing time to Tommie Harris.
At least you know Harris has the ability to disrupt the passer and the runner in the backfield. Harris recovered a key fumble last Sunday that was forced by Henry Melton.
Toeaina is not a long term answer at the defensive tackle position, Tommie Harris might not be either, but he clearly still has more ability than Toeaina.
Maybe DT Marcus Harrison, who was activated for only the second time all season last week will see more playing time tomorrow night against the Dolphins.
The Bears need all the help they can get when they try to stop Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown tomorrow night. The last two games against the Dolphins came in 2006 (where Ronnie Brown ran for over 150 yards) and in 2002 (where Ricky Williams ran for over 200 yards). Stopping the two headed monster the Dolphins have the backfield will be very important.
Expect more playing time for Tommie Harris tomorrow night. Marcus Harrison should gets some looks as well because Matt Toeaina just isn’t getting the job done lately. This league is all about what have you done for me lately and Tommie Harris has been stepping his game up as of late. Time for you to show the Bears why they paid you so much money Tommie.
Jake Perper is the creator of www.BearsBacker.com and also covers the Bearsforwww.NFLTouchdown.comandNFLBlogblitz
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