MIAMI -- There were times when the Indy defensive backs likely wanted to call a fair catch when Rex Grossman threw up one of his patented balloon whoop-de-dos.
Each time Grossman dropped back, you could cue the Three Stooges theme music. Send in the clowns because Kid Suckiness was about to attempt a throw.
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| The Bears will not win a title with Rex Grossman playing like he did Sunday. (Getty Images) |
Which leaves Chicago coach Lovie Smith with a terrific dilemma.
I do not care what Smith says now. I no longer buy his protestations about how Kid Suckiness, jump ball thrower, is his guy in perpetuity. It is likely few players in that Bears locker room trust Grossman. Fans have lost all of their faith in him and I believe, deep in his heart, Smith is beginning to doubt Grossman as well.
"We had a chance to win the game, and we just didn't have it," Grossman said. "I'd like to have the two interceptions back. I don't have any excuses."
The lesson learned for Smith is this: You might be able to win double-digit games in the regular season with Grossman. You might be able to win a division title. You might even be able to win playoff games. But you cannot win a championship with a fumble-prone stink bomb thrower who is often too cocky for his own good.
Send in the clowns.
Smith had better be careful from this point forward. He has thoroughly hitched his ride to Grossman's caboose. Such a move is not only potentially dangerous to Smith's career, it could potentially injure the entire organization.
The game was not all the fault of Kid Suckiness, but the Super Bowl did reveal a weak point in the strategy of Smith and the Bears.
The coaching staff can only protect Grossman but so much. In championships, you cannot hide your quarterback.
Normally, teams want to keep the ball away from the offense. In Chicago's case, Indianapolis loved it when Grossman had the ball. He was the Colts' best defense.
"No, dude, please take the ball," you could hear the Colts saying. "All yours. We love you Rex."
