patient-bennett admires rookie Jeffery
http://espn.go.com/blog/chicago/bear...rookie-jeffery
Patient Bennett admires rookie Jeffery
September, 12, 2012
11:48 AM CT
By Jeff Dickerson |
ESPNChicago.com
LAKE FOREST, Ill. -- Earl Bennett
isn't worried about targets. An accomplished veteran with 124 career receptions
for 1,659 yards, Bennett knows he will get plenty of chances to make plays
throughout the year, even if he was only targeted four times in the Week 1 win
against the Colts.
"You never know depending on the week or the team we
are playing," Bennett said. "All we can do is look forward to this week and try
to get off to a better start.
"When my number is called I just have to
be ready and keep working hard."
However, Bennett made the most of
whatever opportunities came his way in the regular season opener, catching three
passes for 50 yards and nearly scoring on a 25-yard second quarter reception
that was originally called a touchdown by the officials but later overturned
thanks to instant replay.
"I thought I did (score)," Bennett said. "But
when I saw the replay, I knew I didn't. But I can't let that happen. I got to
get in there."
Bennett said he was pleased with the rookie debut of Alshon
Jeffery who made three catches for 80 yards a touchdown and took the
majority of the snaps when the Bears went with a two wide receiver set.
"He fits in well," Bennett said. "He's one of those guys with a big body
that can stretch the field vertically. He can also go across the middle and
catch the ball. He's done a great job especially as a rookie who's been able to
come in and contribute right away."
Bennett has accounted for a couple
of big plays versus the Packers the last two seasons, including a 35-yard
touchdown in the 2010 NFC Championship Game and a 49-yard grab last December at
Lambeau Field. So it would not be a surprise to see Bennett more involved in the
passing game on Thursday night against an experienced Green Bay secondary led by
future Hall of Famer Charles
Woodson.
"They're a good secondary with Tramon
Williams and Charles Woodson now back at the safety position," Bennett said.
"They got some guys who can play back there. Woodson is doing the same thing
he's always done (despite moving from cornerback to safety). Woodson is doing
what he has always done in their scheme."
