Twitter Q&A: Why isn’t CB Deiondre’ Hall playing more for Bears?

The Sun-Times’ experts can answer your Bears questions all week on Twitter. Here’s a sampling of Tuesday’s queries sent to @adamjahns, who responds with more than 140 characters:

//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

A: You’re right in saying that the Lions have a poor defense. They also were without two key starters in defensive end Ziggy Ansah and linebacker DeAndre Levy because injuries. But Loggains did have a good game plan for backup quarterback Brian Hoyer and rookie running back Jordan Howard. But Loggains couldn’t execute that plan if the Bears’ defense struggled as it did against the Cowboys or if the offensive line didn’t do its job. The offensive line has improved significantly since Week 1 in Houston, when everything was in flux after left guard Josh Sitton was signed and rookie Cody Whithair was moved to center.

//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

A: You’re missing second-year cornerback Bryce Callahan, who actually started in place of Glenn opposite veteran Tracy Porter against the Lions. Cra’Von LeBlanc, who was claimed off waivers from the Patriots before the season, was at nickel back for the second game in a row. Hall has flashed some in games. But what about in practice? I know what the inner-Allen Iverson in you is thinking, but the Bears defensive staff values every snap taken at Halas Hall. Practices are now closed to the media, but it’s where players still can prove themselves and win jobs. Callahan’s success in practice earned him the nickel-back job last season and also the start at cornerback against the Lions. LeBlanc’s productivity in practice led to his debut at nickel back against the Cowboys. There is a lot to like about Hall. He is viewed as a future starter. But give the fourth-round pick time. The Bears are.

//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

A: Good question. I thought he was a lock with quarterback Jay Cutler to represent the offense. But Bears players noticed the changes in Jeffery. He’s been more vocal than in years past and not just among receivers. Long, though, still is a leader. He’s arguably the face of the franchise these days. Don’t forget that coach John Fox uses a leadership council. Players from each position group are represented, and they have weekly meetings with Fox. Long’s voice is heard.

//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

A: I know what you’re getting at. Cutler seemed to focus on Jeffery too much in his two starts, while White was largely ignored. White’s miscue also led to Cutler’s first interception in the season opener. Cutler’s frustrations were evident on the play. But White has improved over the last two weeks, and Cutler surely has noticed. It starts with Loggains, who has jumpstarted White by having him run routes he’s comfortable with at this point. Still, it’s unknown when Cutler and White will play together again. They’re both on the injury report right now.

//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js

A: Play-calling? Loggains, who calls games from the press box, has freedom. But Fox’s influence on game plans is often overlooked. His coordinators and coaches are in charge of formulating those plans, but Fox has his hands in everything. In general, Fox’s offensive philosophy requires an efficient, low-risk performance by his quarterback and a strong, reliable running game that complements a staunch defense. Of course, it doesn’t always work out that way.