HBO has delivered another season of Hard Knocks after the offseason season with the New York Giants. I understand the hype around Caleb Williams but this show has shown me how the overall team will be better than last year. This season does a great job introducing you to the Bears rookies, making you attached to them even though they're fighting for a roster spot. Making the team doesn't just go for the rookies but also other veterans who even have to change positions in order to carve a path onto the team. In great Hard Knocks fashion the viewer also gets to see a lot of the behind the scenes conversations with general managers and coaches. In no way do I see the Bears reaching the Super Bowl however, this series only two episodes in I feel way more confident on this team.
Chicago is the theme that is showcased at the start of the episode. Cole Kemt throws out the first pitch at a Chicago Cubs game and Caleb Williams is introduced into the start of training camp with Chicago Bulls entrance music. Focus is all on Caleb Williams in the beginning of the show but I think there is no other way to introduce you to this year's team than the first overall pick at quarterback. Even with the theatrical entrance Hard Knocks doesn't sugar coat Caleb's rough rookie start. After throwing a pick Caleb isn't shy on the sidelines asking head coach and offensive coordinator how to read different defenses. It is clear that he understands he's improving each snap, each drive with his new team.
After Caleb's tough day at training camp former Alabama Coach Nick Saban came in to talk to guys. “You know, like Peyton Manning threw 28 interceptions when he was a rookie. It’s the most in the history of the ball. But it didn’t affect him. It’s like the scoreboard don’t mean anything until the games over" (Nick Saban). Head coach Matt Eberflus asked “Do you do anything special with the quarterback?”
"I always stood behind the quarterback. I always wanted to hear their version of what they’re seeing. I was never negative with him in front of the team" (Nick Saban). Sticking with and progressing your quarterback is the best way for a team to have an identity. Standing behind the player that is in charge with the ball on the field is very important for a beneficial coach and player relationship. Being able to not embarrass but give impactful criticism in private is important to maintain the leadership role for the quarterback. All the players look for the coach to make it onto the field but the players look towards the quarterback once they get on the field.
The first episode had a lot of fun moments, some away from football to let you into the players' lives. A requiring moment throughout both episodes is the rookies telling the team their signing bonus then singing karaoke in front of the entire organization . Canadian Theo Bendeit rookie offensive lineman had the best performance singing "Proud to be an American" wearing an American eagle speedo. Earning the rookie the nickname Canadian Eagle. Fun drills were showcased; the most memorable one was the quarterbacks practicing sliding on a slip&slide. Fun moment's like this keep you engaged.
Hard Knocks shines with its content giving the viewer footage of athletes away from the sport. Jonathan Owens Bears safety goes to support his wife Simone Biles compete in the Paris Olympics. Fans also get to see the Bears largest contract in live time given to DJ Moore. Moore had 96 catches and 1,364 yards, fourth highest in team history. This play got Moore a 4 year $110 million contract extension. “The production has been so consistent we feel good about this so that he can just play free and take care of his family that’s what it’s all about” (Ryan poles General Manager). Said this in the meeting with coaches moments before calling Moore up to speak with him. Remembering players are people with families is extremely important to maintain a healthy working relationship. Moore can go out and play without knowing when the next contract will be . He can get the most out of his time with the new look Bears.
All of these amazing amounts above happen before the Bears first preseason game. Caleb Williams does not play in this game but Brett Rypien is extremely calm. I love Rypein's routine saying before every big drive or play "Great eyes, great feet" (Brett Rypien) The arm is part of the body actually going into motion throwing a ball however, eyes and feet determine accuracy. Rypien may not get a lot of snaps this season but in that one game it proved to me how important he is for the quarterback room. Collin Johnson is the overall hero to rain canceled game recording 3 catches for 56 yards resulting in two touchdowns. Unfortunately fan favorite Canadian Eagle goes down with a grade 2 right hamstring sprain, this will have him out for 4-5 weeks.
Episode two starts out with a more in rhythm Caleb Williams at training camp. It's probably because Williams knew he was playing that preseason game against the Bills. In this preparation we see Williams go over officials with coach and director of research and analysis Harrison Freid. "On a given season you may see some crews twice or you may not see a crew at all; it takes about two and a half years to get through all the crews; there's 17 of them” (Harrison Freid). Officiating crews will work longer than majority players careers so building a bond is important.
Our rookie focus this week is Rome Odunze a wide receiver and Ian Wheeler a running back. Both are already in very different spots in their career. Rome, a mature, already impactful receiver will be a great target for Williams throughout the year. The Howard grad Wheeler deferred his acceptance into medical school to pursue the kid dream of being in the NFL. Even though Wheeler has plans away from football he fights just like the rest of the athletes trying to make the team. Wheeler struggled in training camp not having the best hand and not being a big burly running back he has two big holes in his game. Wheeler's wheels are electric, looking like one of the fastest players on the field every time he's out there. Wheeler got two rushing touchdowns in the Bills preseason game.
Hard Knocks delivers on the entertainment of the sport while also giving the inside scoop fans want. Bears fans are already excited for their season, this show makes me excited for the Bears as I know them better now. Not just focusing on the star talent but also showing you the grind players have to make just play the game makes this show special. The Bears season will have its ups and downs but I do think that this team has strong leaders at the helm to where this team should never be in the dumps for too long. The show has more to build on releasing a new episode Tuesdays at 9pm EST.
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