I can't believe Sun-Times columnist Neil Hayes is starting this stupid debate. Kyle "Ortman" for Jay Cutler an even trade? I don't think so, dog.
Yes, I am aware the Broncos are 4-0. A few points about that: 1) The Broncos have wins over the lowly Browns and lowly Raiders. 2) The Broncos beat the Bengals only because "Ortman" woefully underthrew Brandon Marshall, and the tipped pass fortunately landed in another Denver receiver's hands for a miracle touchdown. 3) The Denver defense is ranked No. 1 in the NFL, largely because they've played really bad teams (see point one).
The Broncos aren't 4-0 because of Kyle Orton. He's still a mediocre, caretaker quarterback. You can win with him if you have a great defense, which the Bears proved during Orton's rookie year in 2005. But there's no way in hell you take Kyle Orton over Jay Cutler as your quarterback. No way. Cutler makes throws that Orton can't, and unlike good ol' neck beard, he can actually move in the pocket. That's been key the first few games because the Bears offensive line hasn't provided the greatest pass protection so far this year.
The Bears are 3-1. Is anyone prepared to make the case they'd be 3-1 with "Ortman" under center? Not a chance. They'd probably be 1-3 at this point.
Here are the Broncos next four games: New England, at San Diego, at Baltimore, Pittsburgh. Let's see if "Ortman" can win at least two of those games before we starting calling this an even trade.
Why is it a "stupid" debate? The wins speak for itself.
Orton flourished well under Josh McDaniels, who I think is a Coach of the Year. The Broncos will likely win the division, and that's a credit to Orton. Orton makes great decisions, and he puts his team in a position to win, which is something I can't say about Cutler.
You do realize the Broncos never made the playoffs with Cutler, right? There was a reason why McDaniels could not wait to get rid of Cutler.
Da Bears are a terrible 4-4 team, and I don't see it getting better anytime soon.
Oh and the Broncos did beat the Patriots and the Chargers already, and I expect them to win several more games later in the season.
Denver did quite well in this trade, and you know what's funny. With Da Bears likely having a losing season, the Broncos will get Da Bears pick.
Keep drinking the Kool-Aid, JB!
While I am at it, Vikings are 7-1 while Da Bears are 4-4.