DETROIT - The Chicago Bears' 34-17 loss to the Detroit Lions on Thursday all but mathematically eliminated them from playoff contention. After falling to 5-7, players understand their bleak outlook and that they face a four-game December stretch of playing out the string.
"I think with the guys we have and character and integrity of the guys, I don't think anybody's going to quit," quarterback Jay Cutler said. "I don't think the coaches would let us. They're going to stay on us. I think the leaders of the team will make sure that we finish this the right way."
Defensive end Jared Allen, whose six-year tenure with the Minnesota Vikings included seasons of six, five and three wins, foresees a spoiler role.
"Misery loves company, right?" he said. "Try to take everybody down with you.
"You play because it's your job. You play because this is what we love to do. If you're willing to shut it down and willing to get embarrassed, I don't want you on my team. I don't think we have one guy in here. We're competitors."