Bears Survive Marino Final Drive

CHICAGO – Dan Marino threw 4 straight incomplete passes from the Chicago 4 yard line in the final 8 seconds of the game. Thus ended an absolutely thrilling season-opening game in Soldier Field with the Bears clinging to a 16-9 victory.

Fuad Reveiz kicked a pair of field goals (29, 31) and Kevin Butler answered with one (26) to give the Dolphins (0-1) a 6-3 halftime lead.

Dave Duerson’s pick in the 3^rd led to Jim McMahon’s 9-yard scambling TD with 5:09 left in the 3^rd quarter. It would be the only touchdown of the game.

Butler kicked 2 more FGs (30, 43) in the 4^th. Reveiz (41) closed the gap to one score with 4:03 remaining. 

Miami began its final drive from its own 26 with 1:21 left on the clock. Marino hit Mark Clayton (5-101) immediately on a 39-yard crossing route. He checked down to Troy Stradford for 13 more on the next throw. Following an incompletion, he connected with Jim Jensen and Mark Duper on consecutive passes for 9 yards each. That left 1^st and goal from the 4.

Next week Miami plays at Buffalo, while Chicago meets up with the Colts in Indianapolis.

Many thanks to Andy for an incredible game!