Why I'm pulling for the Bears

I'm pulling for Chicago in tonight's game because of a former Dukie, Bears long snapper Patrick Mannelly. The Bears drafted Mannelly in 1998 as a sixth-rounder (198th overall), not typically a spot where you expect to find a long-term starter. But Mannelly made the team and played from day one, and has now played in more games than anyone on the Bears roster. He has snapped every kick and punt in a season several times in his career. Mannelly was part of Chicago's record 180 games without a punt blocked, which ended in 2003.

Pro Bowl kicker Robbie Gould made 47 of 47 extra points and 32 of 36 field goals this season, and a big reason was Mannelly's steady snapping. Two neat pieces of trivia: Mannelly's father-in-law is former major league pitcher Tommy John. And, Mannelly can long-snap a basketball into the bucket from half court! Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri will get more attention, but if tonight's game comes down to a Bears field goal, keep an eye on the snapper and expect the snap to be perfect. Good luck to Patrick Mannelly and the Bears!