"He was in a lot of pain," Bears offensive coordinator Ron Turner said. "He's a great Football player and he's extremely tough. It was very important to him to be out there with his teammates and do what he could do."

In fact, Forte scored on a 1-yard run with 7:42 left in the second quarter to give the Bears a 14-7 lead. He finished with just 34 yards on 11 rushes. But he also caught five passes for 29 yards.

Enough Ced: Cedric Benson thinks he could have gained 1,800 yards if he had the holes to run through that Forte has had this season, the former Bears running back told NFL.com.

"He is having a great year, but when I see the highlights, I see holes," Benson, now with the Bengals, told writer Thomas George. "I see them using him in the slot, something they didn't do with me. If I was there right now with the holes I see, I probably would have 1,800 yards. I definitely would have 1,500. I congratulate him on all of his success. He is taking advantage."

Back in action: Running back Kevin Jones was active for the first time in five games, and the Bears used him on the punt and kickoff teams. His inability to play special teams apparently was the reason he didn't play the previous four games. The Bears also activated defensive tackle Matt Toeaina for the first time this season, likely as insurance with Tommie Harris battling knee and hamstring issues. Receiver Marty Booker (ribs), fullback Jason McKie (quad), and running back Garrett Wolfe (hamstring) were inactive, as was receiver Brandon Rideau.

Keep hope alive: The Bears improved to 8-6 with Thursday night's overtime win as they pursue NFC North leader Minnesota.

"I feel like we're putting the pressure on Minnesota. We have two more games, and we have to win out," Danieal Manning said.

OK, fans, who is da man? Cast your vote, offer your comments and see what others think at chicagotribune.com/Bears