Decision to release Pace not looking so bad in hindsight

Decision to release Pace not looking so bad in hindsight
by VanRam on Nov 13, 2009 10:46 AM



In last night's loss to the *****, the Bears lost LT Orlando Pace to what is now believed to be a concussion. As you may recall, the St. Louis Rams decision to part ways with their long-time stalwart LT was received with mixed feelings. However, hindsight being 20-20, the move looks down right prescient right now. Check out what Rotoworld had to say about Pace's season:

Pace has been a disappointment as a run-blocker this season, and his pass protection hasn't exactly been stellar, either.

Alex Barron hasn't been without his flaws for the Rams, but he has mostly been average or better in his blocking. It's the penalties that continue to be his biggest handicap. Still, the real story has been the emergence of rookie Jason Smith.

I think even Barron's penalties are significantly better than previously.

I think most of us thought it was the right decision,but it's always tough to watch a future HOF'er switch teams when he has been such a hugh part of the successful years. I think everyone knew we had to get younger but still sad to see these guys go.

I haven't watched a lot of Bears games this year (or watched Pace specifically very closely when I do catch a Bears game) so I'm going to have to ask those around here that have watched more - is his blocking really that bad?

I assumed that his pass-blocking was a factor in allowing Cutler to throw as much as he has this year, the Bears have suddenly become a pass-first team. They have been surprisingly effective through the air this season.

The concussion doesn't mean anything in this regard. You can't say that makes it a good move to cut him, that's just random.

I do agree however that with Barron & Smith playing about as well as Pace would have, and for less money and being younger too - in that way you could say it was the right decision.