CHICAGO – The Bears were growling about the second-quarter hit by Eagle DE Hugh Douglas that knocked Bear QB Jim Miller out of the game with a separated right shoulder.
Douglas and Miller tangled during an interception return by Eagles SS Damon Moore two minutes into the quarter. The two locked arms, and Douglas landed on top of Miller as they fell to the ground where Miller instantly grabbed his right shoulder.
“The shot that put Jim out was dirty,” said QB Shane Matthews, who replaced Miller. “It was uncalled for. It was a cheap shot. He picked [Miller] up and threw him into the ground. You can’t do that.”
Douglas claimed it was a clean play.
“When he stood there, I stood in front of him,” said Douglas. “But when he moved, he acted like he was going to make the tackle. That’s when I blocked him. He was fair game. If he moves, he gets blocked. He’s a potential tackler.”
Miller wasn’t ready to accuse Douglas of dirty play. “I don’t want to comment until I see the tape,” the quarterback said. “I’d rather see the play and then I’ll make my evaluation.”
Miller had completed just 3 of 5 passes for 23 yards before leaving the game. Matthews was only 8 of 17 for 66 yards and two interceptions.
“They basically stuffed us offensively,” Matthews said. “We stunk it up. I couldn’t get in a rhythm. I let the team down.”