Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler looks at the ground after throwing an incomplete pass during the second quarter of the NFC Championship game at Soldier Field in Chicago on January 23, 2011. UPI/Brian Kersey

The road to the Super Bowl for the Chicago Bears hit a snag when Jay Cutler hurt his knee and had to be removed from the game. It’s become a controversial issue, however, and many commentators and NFL players criticized Cutler for not staying in the game. He was walking the sidelines and didn’t appear to be in great pain, and that fueled speculation about his toughness.

All of us need to be aware of our own bodies and listen to medical professionals when deciding whether to continue playing or working out. It seems rather ridiculous for people who know nothing of the situation to criticize Cutler, though the culture of the NFL says you have to be willing to play with pain.

Meanwhile, the NFL Super Bowl frenzy is in full gear with the Steelers and Packers going head to head. Regardless of what you feel about Cutler, you can enjoy the game by checking out the Bet US sports picks and laying down a wager with your friends.