The Chicago Bears blew numerous chances to advance to move to 5-2 on the season last week in their devastating last-second loss to the Washington Commanders. But one in particular regarding Bears offensive coordinator Shane Waldron really had the fanbase up in arms against the OC.
With just over six minutes to play in the fourth quarter, Waldron surprised everyone when he called a running play for backup offensive lineman Doug Kramer on the goal line. The play ended up resulting in Kramer fumbling the ball, which was recovered by the Commanders, blowing a key chance to take the lead in the process.
The Bears would ultimately end up taking the lead anyway before the Commanders crushed all hopes of a win with their walk-off Hail Mary for the win. But if the play call to Kramer had never happened, we very well may not have ever had a Hail Mary attempt come into play in the first place.
Both fans and even Bears players have spoken out about the decision to run the play for Kramer. But on Thursday, Waldron defended the decision and even said he would do it again in the same situation.
“Felt confident in that moment in the call, but it didn’t work out,” said Waldron via Jason Lieser of the Chicago Sun-Times.
Perhaps we will see the trick play called again at some point this season. But if it is and fails yet again, we could very well see Waldron in some very hot water regarding his position as the OC of the Bears.
