1985 Bears Coverage: Gastineau an imitation Bears fan

Every day of the 2015 Chicago Bears season, Chicago Sun-Times Sports will revisit its coverage 30 years ago during the 1985 Bears’ run to a Super Bowl title.

Gastineau an imitation Bears fan

Dan Pompei

Originally published Dec. 12, 1985

Being a Bear fan this season is so contagious even opponents aren’t immune.

“Chicago’s got a lot of things that are really exciting,” Jets defensive lineman Mark Gastineau said. “If you didn’t know any better, you’d think I was a Chicago Bear fan.”

Especially when Gastineau talks about how nice it is to see so much Bear success in such a short period.

Gastineau had kind words for Walter Payton.

“I have more respect for Walter Payton as a player and as an individual than I do for anyone in the NFL,” Gastineau said. “He’s a family-type folk hero. He’s not the kind of guy who’s ever a loudmouth or smart ass.”

Then there is Jim McMahon.

“And you’ve got somebody that is the complete opposite from Payton as far as personality at quarterback,” Gastineau said.

However, Gastineau said he can relate to McMahon’s free spirit. “If I wanted to do those things, I’d do them too,” he said.