Even in a loss to the undefeated Indianapolis Colts, Kyle Orton got to be a part of something special.

And in a loss to the Green Bay Packers, Jay Cutler continued to be a part of something awful.

That was pretty much the story – and the season – for the two key components in last April’s blockbuster trade between the Bears and Broncos.

Brandon Marshall caught 21 of the 28 passes Orton threw to him for 200 yards, breaking the league's single-game record for catches in a game.

Cutler, meanwhile, completed eight passes, including one for a touchdown, to some guy named Devin Aromashodu in a 21-14 loss to the Packers.

So here are the stats and highlights of both quarterbacks throwing to their aforementioned receivers, with video compliments of the NFL Network:

JAY CUTLER

Team’s record: 5-8

Completions-attempts/percentage: 284-457 (62.1 percent)

Yards: 3,023 (232.5 yards per game; 6.61 yards per attempt)

Touchdowns: 19

Interceptions: 22

Sacks: 29

Analysis: Cutler’s sideline demeanor with quarterbacks coach Pep Hamilton continues to reveal his frustration. He was (rightfully) upset with Johnny Knox for cutting the wrong way on a route in the second half. Two interceptions, three sacks and a conga-line of penalties declared the Bears’ offense DOA against the Packers. If nothing else, the Bears have learned that plugging Cutler into their system isn’t enough. You need to get the right players, coaches and system in place around him to capitalize on his rocket right arm. Here’s a hint to GM Jerry Angelo: Start with signing Marshall.

KYLE ORTON

Team’s record: 8-5

Completions-attempts/percentage: 258-410 (62.9 percent)

Yards: 2,904 (223.3 per game; 7.08 per attempt)

Touchdowns: 16

Interceptions: 8

Sacks: 21

Analysis: Orton kept the Broncos in it with two touchdowns passes (against one interception), but you can’t stake Peyton Manning a 14-0 lead and expect to win. The 8-5 record keeps them in the driver’s seat for a wild-card berth with games against AFC West doormats Oakland and Kansas City, and a tough road game at Philadelphia left on the schedule. It’s time to see if Orton can do for the Broncos what Cutler could not: Lead his team to the playoffs in December.

-- MIKE REILLEY
Follow him on Twitter @bearsblogblitz