Like a fine wine, we had to let this most recent Chicago Bears victory linger a little bit: not to gulp it down in one quick swig, but instead consume slowly with small, careful sips; swishing it around in the mouth, smelling the sweet aroma, and admiring the visual of the fine wine making its way enticingly both up and down the glass.
This was one to be savored for sure.
Now, though, with a couple of days to let it settle, we can more accurately analyze the beauty of this recent victory, and what it might mean as we look to the future for our beloved Bears.
Here are some key takeaways from Monday night’s dramatic “at the buzzer” victory:
The Bears are learning how to win the close games, and as Bears fans well know, this is something we have badly struggled with in previous years.Caleb Williams is not there yet… but he is getting close and showing improvement. His poise in the pocket, overall accuracy, and decision-making are all getting better. Announcer Troy Aikman nailed it when he said, “it is not just completing the pass that Caleb needs to work on, but more so hitting the receiver in stride so he can effectively run after the catch.” Aikman was spot-on with that observation, and the in-stride pass to Deondre Swift and resulting 50-yard run was a perfect example.We may have found a left tackle! Theo Benedict, previously unknown and unheard from, got his first start and was outstanding! He appears to have quick feet and just the right amount of “nasty.”Bears continue to win the turnover battle, which is a positive trend all season—we hope.Montez Sweat showed up. Too many games, our highest-paid defensive player has been a non-factor, but against the Commanders? Montez was a thorn in their side early and often, and was in constant motion chasing down Commanders QB Jaden Daniels.C’mon, referees, stop with the ticky-tack calls! The lining up offside call on Benedict that nullified a touchdown was ridiculous, as was the supposed “push off” by Colston Loveland on his catch in the first half. Some other insignificant stuff as well. Not good from the stripes.Jake Moody came through! The last-minute kicker call-up had to perform under great pressure, not just as a guy new to the team, but also in wet, rainy, and windy conditions. Moody was up to the challeng,e kicking three field goals, including the game winner with three seconds left.The Bears are using all their weapons in the run game—and this year we’ve got a lot of them! I am liking more and more our backup running back Kyle Monangai, the rookie from Rutgers, who is slippery, elusive and not afraid to lower his head and plow over defenders. Still lurking is Roshon Johnson, getting healthy now and a solid back for sure; meanwhile, they are all playing supporting roles to lead back and Monday’s star, Deondre Swift. QB Caleb can run too, so the arrow is pointing up in this area.
Overall: Lots of positives for sure, as stated at the top, and definitely enjoying the lingering feel good from that big Monday night win. Now, can we keep the victory train rolling?
Next up, the not-so-mighty New Orleans Saints on Sunday, Oct. 19, at Soldier Field. On paper, it looks like it should be an easy Bears victory.
But history tells us those are exactly the ones you have to worry about.