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2019年2月1日 星期五

Bears pick winners

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February 1, 2019

chicagotribune.com

Inside Slant

They got their money's worth

Friday, Feb 1

Entering the 2018 season, the Bears were at a crossroads at cornerback. The plan the team put into motion allowed it to keep Kyle Fuller, Prince Amukamara and Bryce Callahan, and that strategy paid off handsomely. As in the Bears led the NFL with 27 interceptions last season, the most they've had since 31 in 1990. Brad Biggs takes a big-picture look at the position in his continuing breakdown of the roster. As far as the moves the team is making this offseason, we'll keep you updated right here. While kicker Cody Parkey's fate is uncertain, there are bound to be references to his infamous shanks when golf descends on Soldier Field in April. Also, while you're watching the Super Bowl on Sunday — don't pretend you won't watch, even if you dislike the Patriots — keep an eye on Rams punter Johnny Hekker. He's a heck of a passer, and there's a good chance he'll show off his skills in the big game. Whatever happens, let's hope the Super Bowl is more entertaining than these clunkers.

Free agent madness!

The latest in the Manny Machado and (sudden Padres target) Bryce Harper sweepstakes involves Kris Bryant? The Hot Stove's deep freeze may actually help the Cubs secure Bryant before he becomes a free agent.

5 for condescension

NBC analyst Pierre McGuire took the opportunity to explain basic hockey to Kendall Coyne Schofield, who scored two goals to help the U.S. women's hockey team win a gold medal in 2018. Seriously?

Back again

"You can say it," Bobby Portis said. "I'm not a cocky guy." OK, we'll say it. It looks like Portis is back after his dominant performance against the Heat. And K.C. Johnson answers tons of point guard questions (are you reading, Kris Dunn?) in his mailbag.

Love and basketball

The tattoo on Lacey James' right calf is a testimony to his passion and his triumph. A suspected heart condition temporarily sidelined the NIU forward, making him more appreciative of the sport — and his relationship with the mother who raised him.

Ever the optimists

The Blackhawks have 31 games to make up a seven-point deficit in the Western Conference playoff race. So, their chances aren't great. Can they do it? "Crazier things have happened," Jonathan Toews said.

Give them a pen already

If you can believe it, college football's national signing day is less than a week away. How are recruiting classes shaping up for Illinois, Northwestern and Notre Dame? Joel Boyd breaks it all down.