Forte Is the Anti-Benson: Fresh Air Emanates Throughout Windy City

Bears fans were always weary of the indifferent Cedric Benson, especially his sense of entitlement and lack of accountability when it came to mistakes. He was disrespectful, according to his veteran peers, and didn't believe in paying his dues.

Apparently Matt Forte is the antithesis:

Consider:

- During practice, Forte was pushed around by the defense ... namely Mark Anderson and Brandon McGowan. His response?

"The only way you can is to come out play hard and earn their respect,'' Forte said. "Every practice, you have to go hard. That stuff happens.''

- Olin Kruetz hazes the rookies by making them announce their signing bonus and sing the school fight song. Forte's response?

"At least I knew the words.''

In fairness, anyone who doesn't want a broken jaw would probably follow that one.

- Lovie Smith currently has Adrian Peterson running with the first string offense (Kevin Jones is still injured), so Forte has a constant reminder that he's still only a rookie. Forte openly accepts that he must pay his dues. At the same time, he's confident in his abilities.

"I just pray I stay healthy and if I do that, my goal is to get over 1,000 yards and hopefully become rookie of the year,'' Forte said. "Ultimately, our goal is get the running game out so we can get the passing game going and get back to the Super Bowl.''

Respect, accepting of lesser roles, and a true man in every sense who discusses team goals? Out with the insufferable, in with the pleasant in the Bears backfield. Now fans are hoping he's just as opposite on the field.