Colts avoid Hester after 92-yard TD

MIAMI -- Devin Hester did his part Sunday. His 92-yard touchdown return on the opening kickoff not only put the Bears ahead, but it also gave them great field position for much of the game because the Indianapolis Colts tried kicking away from him.

The former Miami star looked right at home, using an incredible juke to start the return before turning on his speed to race to the end zone.

''We knew we were capable of returning one,'' Hester said. ''It was a right return, and it was set up the way [special-teams] coach Dave Toub planned it.

''It was just being patient and trusting in your teammates that they're going to be there to set up the blocks. That's what happened.''

Hester said he was checking out the scoreboard video screen on his return.

''I was trying to get a feeling for my surroundings and who was around me,'' he said. ''It's what I envisioned all week, for the past two weeks. But ... we lost.''

The Colts' first touchdown came on a pass from Peyton Manning to former Miami star Reggie Wayne.

''It speaks for the players UM produces,'' Hester said. ''And there are some great players in the league. Guys are stepping up and making plays. That's the way it's always been and always will be.''

Because of Hester's return, the Colts kicked to four other players on kickoffs. Hester returned only one punt for three yards.

''I wasn't surprised,'' Hester said. ''We knew after that first time they wouldn't kick to me anymore. We were trying to figure out a way to place me in position to get my hands on the ball. They still kicked away from me.''

rmodrowski@suntimes.com