Bears QB criticized for unenthusiastic start command to NASCAR race

After a rain delay postponed things for a while, Fields finally stepped to the stage to give the command to fire, saying, "What's up, Chicago! Drivers, start your engines!"

Considering the circumstances of Sunday's huge event, many understandably believed Fields' effort left something to be desired.

Meanwhile, others chose to focus on the positives that came out of Sunday's race, including the fact that an NFL quarterback kicked things off. 

It's hard not to sympathize with Fields, especially since the plans for Sunday obviously had to be tinkered with due to the weather delay. Instead of taking the mic outside, near the track, Fields made his announcement on a make-shift stage indoors. Not exactly the kind of environment that generates excitement. 

Furthermore, there's a strong possibility — almost 100% — that Fields hasn't announced the start of a race in his life. Also, Fields was taking his role as seriously as the one he has under center for the Bears, admitting to reporters that he'd been practicing his lines for three days in preparation. 

Regardless of how his first foray as Grand Marshall went, Fields says NASCAR has earned a new fan. 

"It's been cool. I've met a few drivers, just got done playing ping pong with Bubba [Wallace]," Fields said via Steve Scheuer of WGN. "Just the whole experience has been awesome. Definitely going to keep up with it now and just watch it a lot more now."