Chicago coach Lovie Smith has decided to replace starting quarterback Rex Grossman with backup Brian Griese, a move long desired by many Bears fans.

"To make it official, Brian Griese will be our starting quarterback," Smith said Wednesday. "Right now, we are not getting a whole lot done. It's not one person. I think we need a breath of fresh air. Other positions need to step up."

Quarterback Rex Grossman (8) could be headed to Chicago's sidelines.
(Lisa Blumenfeld/Getty Images)

Grossman, 27, has been mediocre in three games this season, throwing for one touchdown and six interceptions. Chicago, which has only won once in three games, has scored just 33 points this season, suffering its losses to San Diego (14-3) and Dallas (34-10).

Grossman frustrated fans in his first full season in 2006, alternating between impressive and awful performances. The pivot finished with 23 touchdowns and 20 interceptions, but struggled in the Super Bowl as the Bears lost to Indianapolis.

He is in the final year of his contract with the club.

Griese has thrown for 104 touchdowns and 16,564 yards, with 80 interceptions, in a nine-year career that began with the Denver Broncos.

Griese, 32, has also played for Miami and Tampa Bay.

"First and foremost, as an offense we have to step up," Griese said. "I think that playing offense is an attitude, and I think since I've been here, the offense has been kind of second-class citizens. Hopefully I can bring a little bit of energy and enthusiasm to our huddle and to our game.

Chicago will play in Detroit on Sunday.