Defense and ball security was the name of the game for the Bears as they faced off against the Titans on Sunday. The Titans came into the game with the 9th ranked running offense in the league, unsurprising to anyone given the ability of their star running back, Derrick Henry. The Bears defense had to this point been somewhat average against to running game, allowing an average of 97 yards a game. The struggling Bears offense would also be a focus of this game. The Bears lead the league in sacks allowed and fumbles, and are 2nd worst in the league in interceptions. Three categories you don’t want to be leading if you want to win football games in the NFL.

The Bears won the toss and deferred. The Titans came out of the gates blazing, driving down the field in short order, but the Bears were able to hold the Titans to a field goal. From that point on the Bears clamped down and did not allow another score until late in the 4th quarter.

The Bears defense’s ability to hold the Titans at bay was in part facilitated by long, methodical drives from the offense. David Montgomery set the tone for the offense with over 100 yards rushing, and Jameis Winston was able to protect the ball and make smart decisions, resulting in over 200 yards passing, 2 TDs, and a 140 QBR. Allen Robinson lead the receiving core for the Bears with 3 receptions for 82 yards and a TD. Robinson was assisted by speedy trade deadline acquisition Scotty Miller, who chipped in with 6 receptions, 60 yards, and a TD.

Ultimately the game came down to ball control and a few key possessions, with the Bears being able to double dip with a TD on either side of the half.  The Bears controlled the clock on offense, were able to get the Titans behind on the scoreboard early, and were able to force the Titans to scheme away from Derrick Henry for the remainder of the game. Henry finished the game with 6 carries, 11 yards, and no touchdowns.

The Bears will look forward to a division rival matchup against the Vikings before hitting the bye week in week 11. The division matchup will certainly have playoff implications, though the Vikings seem the be pulling away from the rest of the division at 7-1. The Bears will look to reel them back in next week building off ball control and defense.