The Chicago Bears' high-powered offense has finally become a game-changer for the team, with Ben Johnson's unit ranking sixth in total yards this season – their highest ranking in nearly 50 years. This development is a welcome change for fans who have long suffered through woeful offenses. However, the Bears' defense is still a major concern.
For the first time in recent memory, the defense has been vulnerable, particularly when it comes to stopping the run and pass. The unit struggles to rush the passer and holds opponents on third down, making it difficult for the offense to take over and secure wins. The Bears' inability to stop big plays is also a pressing issue.
The team's history of relying on a strong defense has been put to the test. In past playoff appearances, the defense has consistently performed well, but this season's unit ranks 23rd in scoring defense and 29th in total defense – making them one of the few teams in the bottom 15 to make it to the postseason with such a subpar defensive performance.
While the Bears' knack for takingaways is still a strength, their inability to contain turnovers when they don't can be a major liability. In fact, the team's record suggests that they are only successful when they're able to take away opponents' passes – going 0-2 in games where they didn't have any takeaways and 2-6 in games with fewer than two.
The onus is now on Ben Johnson's offense to carry the team through. With a fast start and possession time, the Bears can limit Jordan Love and the Packers' offense from setting the tone and establishing control against their vulnerable defense.
The challenge for the Bears lies in overcoming their struggles against the Packers' defense. The unit has allowed an average of 32.3 points and 401.7 yards in its last three games with starters playing, but it will be difficult to overcome these issues when facing a team that consistently excels on third down.
Ultimately, the Bears' fate will depend on how well they can execute their game plan. If they can limit big plays, contain turnovers, and make the most of possession time, they may just have a chance to upset the favored Packers.
For the first time in recent memory, the defense has been vulnerable, particularly when it comes to stopping the run and pass. The unit struggles to rush the passer and holds opponents on third down, making it difficult for the offense to take over and secure wins. The Bears' inability to stop big plays is also a pressing issue.
The team's history of relying on a strong defense has been put to the test. In past playoff appearances, the defense has consistently performed well, but this season's unit ranks 23rd in scoring defense and 29th in total defense – making them one of the few teams in the bottom 15 to make it to the postseason with such a subpar defensive performance.
While the Bears' knack for takingaways is still a strength, their inability to contain turnovers when they don't can be a major liability. In fact, the team's record suggests that they are only successful when they're able to take away opponents' passes – going 0-2 in games where they didn't have any takeaways and 2-6 in games with fewer than two.
The onus is now on Ben Johnson's offense to carry the team through. With a fast start and possession time, the Bears can limit Jordan Love and the Packers' offense from setting the tone and establishing control against their vulnerable defense.
The challenge for the Bears lies in overcoming their struggles against the Packers' defense. The unit has allowed an average of 32.3 points and 401.7 yards in its last three games with starters playing, but it will be difficult to overcome these issues when facing a team that consistently excels on third down.
Ultimately, the Bears' fate will depend on how well they can execute their game plan. If they can limit big plays, contain turnovers, and make the most of possession time, they may just have a chance to upset the favored Packers.