Chicago Bears: Mitchell Trubisky will win the starting quarterback jobRyan Fedrauon August 8, 2020 at 11:00 am

Mitchell Trubisky #10, Chicago Bears (Photo by Nuccio DiNuzzo/Getty Images)

Chicago Bears’ quarterback Mitchell Trubisky has one last chance to keep his job.

Mitchell Trubisky was drafted in 2017 by the Chicago Bears with the second pick in the draft. The pick has been met with criticism since the second Trubisky walked on stage to shake hands with Roger Goodell. How could the Bears pass up on Deshaun Watson, fans asked?

Trubisky, at the time, was looked at as the best all-around quarterback, with the most consistent college tape, even though he started just 13 games. Watson went to two national championships with Clemson, winning one of them, but was still looked at as the number two quarterback in that draft.

Patrick Mahomes wasn’t looked at as a Top 10 pick in the 2017 draft. The Chiefs hit the lottery with that pick, that’s something that is unfair to Trubisky, to call out the Bears for passing up on Mahomes. Watson, we get it, Mahomes, no one expected him to be what he was.

So, what’s the issue with Trubisky? Besides the shoulder injury he suffered against the Vikings early in the season, he’s been plagued with a below-average offensive line and a head coach that doesn’t want to coach him. He hasn’t had the best weapons around him either, unlike Mahomes.

Not to discount Allen Robinson, but he was the third-string wide receiver on the Jaguars just a year before the Bears picked him up. Trey Burton, who is now gone, was also a backup tight end on the Eagles before the Bears picked him up. Tarik Cohen isn’t a consistent, every-down running back, and the use of David Montgomery wasn’t there for most of the season.

Trubisky might have regressed, but he was injured, and he doesn’t have the weapons you see top quarterbacks in the league. This year is different though, he will have an improved offensive line, an improved tight end, and more weapons at receiver.

For quarterback competition, the Bears traded for Nick Foles during the offseason. It’s a solid move and he will be a great backup that will push Trubisky and make him a better quarterback. The upside for Trubisky improving from Foles is something fans should root for, not them rooting for Trubisky to leave town and the team to draft another quarterback in 2021.

Trubisky has worked with Jeff Christensen on his throwing mechanics during the summer. This is something that was much needed, something that Trubisky knew he needed to do to become a better quarterback. He also has fixed his throwing shoulder and feels the best he’s felt in years.

Lastly, he’s seen tape from every throw he’s made during the last two seasons with help from Matt Nagy, with the two of them making decisions on where Trubisky did well and where he did wrong.

If everything we’re hearing about Trubisky improving is true, he will be the starting quarterback in 2020. He still has to put the work in on Sundays though. He can win the starting job and not perform well. If wins the job and doesn’t perform well, Foles will end up playing.

At the end of the day, I believe in Trubisky. I don’t see Trubisky as a bust. I believe the additions to the Bears offense during the offseason is enough to help Trubisky become a better quarterback. He won’t be perfect, but he will bounce back and have a better season than he did in 2018. The Bears will be a playoff team this season and Trubisky will be a big reason why.

Three quarterbacks ti consider in the future

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The next 37 days will be exciting for fans, as that’s how long we have to wait to see the Bears play the Lions. Good luck to both quarterbacks, may the best quarterback win!

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Chicago Bears: Mitchell Trubisky will win the starting quarterback jobRyan Fedrauon August 8, 2020 at 11:00 am Read More »

Blackhawks: Golden Knights vs Avalanche determines opponentVincent Pariseon August 8, 2020 at 12:00 pm

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 23: Marc-Andre Fleury #29 of the Vegas Golden Knights makes a save in front of Joonas Donskoi #72 of the Colorado Avalanche in the third period of their game at T-Mobile Arena on December 23, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Avalanche defeated the Golden Knights 7-3. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) — LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 23: Marc-Andre Fleury #29 of the Vegas Golden Knights makes a save in front of Joonas Donskoi #72 of the Colorado Avalanche in the third period of their game at T-Mobile Arena on December 23, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Avalanche defeated the Golden Knights 7-3. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

The Chicago Blackhawks are definitely going to have a tough first-round matchup.

The Chicago Blackhawks did it! They won their play-in series against the Edmonton Oilers to advance into the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs. They were given a second chance in the return to play tournament and they took advantage. They defeated the team with the NHL’s two leading scorers on its team and a lot of people deserve credit. Now, they await word on which team they are going to play in the next round.

The Dallas Stars and St. Louis Blues are both 0-2 in the round-robin. Their next game against each other is going to determine the third and fourth seed in the Western Conference. The game between the Colorado Avalanche and Vegas Golden Knights today is going to determine who has the first and second seed. Whoever wins that first seed by winning the game is who the Chicago Blackhawks will face.

The Avalanche might remind some people of the Oilers but a much better version. The Oilers are headlined by the best player in the world in Connor McDavid. Colorado has what might be the second-best player in Nathan MacKinnon. He is one of the MVP caliber players that can change any given game all on his own. The Hawks went 1-3 this season against the Avalanche but that was a long time ago. They are much deeper outside of their stars than Edmonton so this would be an incredible challenge.

The Vegas Golden Knights are a different animal. Not many teams in the league run four lines better than them. They have one of the most underrated stars in the NHL in Mark Stone. He absolutely makes a case for a top-10 player in the league as he is one of the best two-way forwards in the world. They have two really good goalies in Marc Andre Fleury and Robin Lehner so they would present a major challenge all around.

There is no telling who the Hawks would “rather face” in the first round because they are both incredibly good in different ways. Either way, they need the same intensity from guys like Jonathan Toews, Patrick Kane, and Corey Crawford. This is going to be fun to watch. Fans can catch the game between Colorado and Vegas on NBC at 2 PM.

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Blackhawks: Golden Knights vs Avalanche determines opponentVincent Pariseon August 8, 2020 at 12:00 pm Read More »

No fall Missouri Valley Football Conference games for three Illinois schoolsDan Verdunon August 8, 2020 at 2:46 am

Prairie State Pigskin

No fall Missouri Valley Football Conference games for three Illinois schools

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No fall Missouri Valley Football Conference games for three Illinois schoolsDan Verdunon August 8, 2020 at 2:46 am Read More »

“Black Is Beautiful” Beer Review: Liquid LoveMark McDermotton August 8, 2020 at 4:24 am

The Beeronaut

“Black Is Beautiful” Beer Review: Liquid Love

“Black Is Beautiful” Beer Review: Liquid LoveMark McDermotton August 8, 2020 at 4:24 am Read More »

Best Bars to Play Sand Volleyball in the Chicago AreaAudrey Snyderon August 7, 2020 at 8:00 pm

Table of Contents

Many of us enjoy the warm, summery sport of playing volleyball in the sand. Some people prefer to play within the structure of a social sports league, while others feel comfortable in a more casual game now and then with close friends. It may not be a typical summer in Chicago, but however you enjoy playing the sport, you can still feel the sand between your toes as you and your pals pass, set, and spike your way to warm-weather fun at these premium spots for enjoying some drinks, playing volleyball, or both. Just remember to set your beer down before the ball comes your way!

1721 W Wrightwood Ave, Chicago IL 60614

This casual sports bar near Lincoln Park not only goes by the full name “Augie’s Booze & Schmooze,” but also has an outdoor sand volleyball court where patrons can venture out between sips of beer or innings of a Cubs game. Grab a brew, get your bros together, and spike some balls.

1603 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago IL 60611

The trendy lakefront boathouse-style restaurant at North Avenue Beach reopens August 7th, so those venturing out for a bite and great beach views will be able to partake with some grill fare and their favorite refreshing drinks after a couple of games of volleyball. Just don’t get any sand in those fruity beverages.

1211 Butterfield Rd, Ste B, Downers Grove IL 60515

This sports bar and grill not only features a sand volleyball court, but also a pool, darts, and bags. While serving a full menu of grill food and drinks, the Sand Club volleyball court facilitates open play, special events, and even leagues and tournaments. Who knew Downers Grove was hiding such a center of entertainment?

1200 W Hawthorne Ln, West Chicago IL 60185

For some suburban volleyball fun, visit Hawthorne’s 4-acre “backyard” space, which contains multiple sand volleyball courts, a whiffle ball field, other outdoor games, and seating areas. A bar and grill in the truest sense, Hawthorne’s also boasts “Chicago’s Western Suburbs’ Best Fish Fry and BBQ,” so don’t forget to grab a snack while you’re there.

Sideouts Sports Tavern Facebook Page
4018 W Roberts Rd, Island Lake IL 60042
Though it sits a little far out in Island Lake, Illinois, 3D Sideouts offers a lot to make your trip worthwhile: multiple outdoor beach volleyball courts, bags, bocce ball, and an outdoor patio and bar make this sports tavern a something-for-everyone recreation experience. In between volleyball games, grab some drinks for your friends and maybe some snacks, all without having to stray too far from the court.
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Caffe Oliva Facebook Page
550 E Grand Ave, Chicago IL 60611
The Ohio Street Beach restaurant (reopening August 7th) offers a resort-style ambiance, complete with cabana rentals and refreshing cocktails. While the beach itself may still be closed to the public, there are volleyball courts immediately outside Oliva’s patio— even if the courts are currently off-limits, they won’t be forever.

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Featured Image Credit: Sideouts Sports Tavern Facebook Page

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Best Bars to Play Sand Volleyball in the Chicago AreaAudrey Snyderon August 7, 2020 at 8:00 pm Read More »

This Huge Sunflower Maze is Only an Hour from ChicagoNishat Ahmedon August 7, 2020 at 10:00 pm

While we creep into August, many can’t help but feel that summer just hasn’t felt like true summer. This is with good reason, given that so many summer staples have been altered or canceled altogether due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, but something that has been keeping many fueled with joy this season is a reconnection with nature and the outdoors. Located just an hour from Chicago, Von Bergen’s Country Market is home to a huge sunflower maze for stunning family fun.

In the city of Hebron, often recognized by the basketball-painted water tower, Von Bergen’s Country Market sits near the outskirts of the city. The maze is open from 9 am through 8 pm, but is variant on the weather! If it rains, the maze closes, so make sure you check the weather forecast before making your trek out to the maze!

sunflower maze chicago — Photo Credit: Von Bergen’s

Once you arrive, admission only runs $5 a person for anyone who is over the age of 3 (toddlers rejoice!) payable with cash or credit card and, once the admission fee has been paid, guests can complete and explore the maze as many times as they’d like and for as long as they want to. On average, the maze takes about 20 minutes to complete going at a solid pace but if you want photos (and we’re tellin’ you, these flowers are extremely Instagram-friendly), expect to spend a little more time among the sunflowers. There’s no need to rush it anyway when so much beauty is abundant!

This year, Von Bergen’s Country Market will be offering three mazes throughout its maze season: the first one’s peak bloom has already passed, the second one is currently available, and the final one will be open to guests in the fall. While the mazes are indeed outside, guests are still encouraged to practice social distancing while inside the maze and at the market. Some toys and equipment on the premises may not be available for public use and, as always, guests should consider wearing masks even though they will be outdoors.

View State Parks Open Now Near Chicago

Still craving the fresh air? View which state parks are open now near the city.

View State Parks Open Now Near Chicago

Given that it is the summer season, be aware that there will be plenty of bees about purveying the sunflowers as well. If you don’t bother them, they won’t bother you! (For those not as fond of our fuzzy, flying friends, Von Bergen’s Country Market wants you to know that there will also be fall programming and festivities in the autumn months where the fear of a stinger should be non-existent.)

Parking is free and is located on the grass areas near the mazes. Afterward, chow down on some of the sweet corn at the market and take a sunflower home to remember your time at the Von Bergen’s Country Market! Be sure to keep up with their Facebook page for any and all updates.

At UrbanMatter, U Matter. And we think this matters.

Tell us what you think matters in your neighborhood and what we should write about next in the comments below!

Featured Image Credit: Von Bergen’s

Blackhawks fans anxious for playoff hockey: ‘We’re playing with house money’Manny Ramoson August 8, 2020 at 1:57 am

It was like 2015 all over again.

The Chicago Blackhawks vying for a chance to bring the Stanley Cup home. Fans filing into bars, slamming beers and eating burgers.

The lingering pandemic seemed almost forgotten — but temperature checks and signs encouraging mask-wearing were quick reminders.

Tony Vittal and Jim Moore shared a table near a window at the WestEnd, 1326 W. Madison St., chatting moments before the puck dropped. The Blackhawks would go on to win, closing out the series against the Edmonton Oilers.

“We’re fired up. It’s like we’re playing with house money — they don’t belong here, they shouldn’t be here — but we’re excited,” Vittal said. “It’s almost like the first season ended and now we are playing a whole new season.”

Nate Campbell, Jessica LaPorte and Eric Baumgartner enjoyed beer and wings at WestEnd’s sidewalk patio, the game playing on several TVs near their table. They were excited to remember when the United Center hosted playoff hockey and a global pandemic hadn’t disrupted the nation.

“It’s a little sense of fake normalcy, I guess you can say,” LaPorte said. “It’s just fun to see them playing like how they used too especially with all those goals they made in the last game.”

Campbell said it’s “shocking” the Hawks are in the position they are — but now, he added, they have a real shot at the Stanley Cup.

“It’s exciting because we’ve sucked for a few years,” Campbell said raising his beer and laughing.

Frank Trovato was watching the game at the outdoor patio of Vintage Bar, 1449 W. Taylor St. He’s been a Hawks fan for over 12 years now and the thought of playoff hockey is thrilling.

“It’s a bit of euphoria, I have to say, because even though they shouldn’t be here, they have as good of a chance as anyone,” Trovato said. “We’ve seen the lowest seed beating the highest seed a lot of times in the NHL, so anything can happen.”

Chicago Blackhawks fan Frank Trovato watches the Blackhawks game against the Edmonton Oilers at the Vintage Bar, Friday, Aug. 7, 2020. | Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times

Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Chicago Blackhawk fans Nate Campbell, left, Eric Baumgartner, center, and Jessica LaPorte, right, enjoy drinks and food at WestEnd near Madison St and Ada St during the Blackhawks game against the Edmonton Oilers, Friday, Aug. 7, 2020. | Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times

Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Chicago Blackhawk fans Eric Baumgartner, left, Jessica LaPorte, center, and Nate Campbell, right, enjoy drinks and food at WestEnd near Madison St and Ada St during the Blackhawks game against the Edmonton Oilers, Friday, Aug. 7, 2020. | Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times

Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times
Chicago Blackhawks fans Jim Moore, left, and Tony Vittal enjoy a drink at WestEnd near Madison St and Ada St ahead of the Blackhawks game against the Edmonton Oilers, Friday, Aug. 7, 2020. | Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times

Tyler LaRiviere/Sun-Times

Blackhawks fans anxious for playoff hockey: ‘We’re playing with house money’Manny Ramoson August 8, 2020 at 1:57 am Read More »

Chicago Blackhawks: Jonathan Toews leads them to first roundVincent Pariseon August 8, 2020 at 1:43 am

EDMONTON, ALBERTA - AUGUST 07: Matthew Highmore #36 of the Chicago Blackhawks is congratulated by his teammates after scoring a goal against the Edmonton Oilers during the first period in Game Four of the Western Conference Qualification Round prior to the 2020 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place on August 07, 2020 in Edmonton, Alberta. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/Getty Images) — EDMONTON, ALBERTA – AUGUST 07: Matthew Highmore #36 of the Chicago Blackhawks is congratulated by his teammates after scoring a goal against the Edmonton Oilers during the first period in Game Four of the Western Conference Qualification Round prior to the 2020 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Rogers Place on August 07, 2020 in Edmonton, Alberta. (Photo by Jeff Vinnick/Getty Images)

The Chicago Blackhawks have defeated the Edmonton Oilers in the play-in round.

The Chicago Blackhawks actually did it! They defeated the Edmonton Oilers in the play-in round to play in the first round of the playoffs for the first time since 2017. They haven’t won a playoff series since winning the Stanley Cup in 2015. It was a tough year but they have taken advantage of the second opportunity given to them by COVID-19. Jonathan Toews deserves a lot of credit for the way he carried this team all series long.

In this final game, they defeated the Oilers by a final score of 3-2. It was a tough series but they eliminated the Oilers in four games. Toews had two assists in the game, including the feed to Dominik Kubalik for the beautiful game-winning goal. He also had the game-winner in game three with a minute left in regulation to put them in this clinch situation.

It is very cool that this team was able to take advantage of this bad situation. They were given life and they took advantage. There are probably people who are mad about it but they were given the chance and the won. The 12th seed in the east, Montreal Canadiens, also won their series against the Pittsburgh Penguins so the major upset happened in both conferences.

Well, things are going to get very difficult here. They await the winner of the Vegas Golden Knights and Colorado Avalanche round-robin game. Those are two very good teams that have had Stanley Cup aspirations since the beginning of the season.

Corey Crawford took some criticism for the way he played in game two. Well, he showed the haters that they were wrong in games three and four. He was right there with Jonathan Toews to lead this team to victory more than once. Now, Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and the Edmonton Oilers are leaving the bubble that they were hosting. It was a brilliant series to watch and now we get more playoff hockey.

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Chicago Blackhawks: Jonathan Toews leads them to first roundVincent Pariseon August 8, 2020 at 1:43 am Read More »