(MCT) — There have been long hours for the Bears’ offensive coaching staff since Mike Tice took over at the end of January, more than the staff put in during the previous two seasons.

So for the first time since before training camp, Tice will be stepping away briefly to recharge for the remainder of the season. He and his wife Diane on Thursday will make the eight-hour drive to the University of Pittsburgh to visit their son Nate, who is a graduate assistant on Paul Chryst’s staff.

“We are going to catch up, just kind of take our time,” Tice said of the journey with his wife. “Tonight, I am going to go home and enjoy a cigar. And that’s kind of really it for the break. I am going to take a few walks, get some fresh air. I am going to enjoy watching the games on Saturday and Sunday too. That is going to be really fun.”