The Oldest Rivalry in Football

by loosh13 | 4 years ago | 0 Comments

The Bears took on the Packers on Sunday in a game draped with playoff implications. Both teams entered the game at 6-4, with the Bears at 1-1 in division and the Packers at 1-2 in division. 

 

The Bears defense continued their excellent play, forcing 5 turnovers (4 INT and a fumble) and 3 sacks. The Bears rookie defensive end Julius Peppers led the defense with all 3 sacks and a forced fumble, finally getting on the stat sheet after spending the first 11 weeks without a sack. Linebacker/Safety Obi Melifonwu contributed with 2 of the 4 interceptions, and rookie Cornerback Chris Claybrooks led the secondary with 4 tackles and an interception, his first as a Bear. The Bears defense cashed 2 defensive touchdowns from these turnovers.

 

On the offensive side of the ball the Bears did what was necessary to win the game: protect the football and manage the clock. Jameis Winston did his part, throwing 10-13 for 206 and a TD. Scotty Miller was the favorite target, though favorite is an overstatement with only 3 receptions. Miller was efficient with those 3 receptions, turning in 109 and a TD. In the ground game David Montgomery struggled, going for 14 yards and 11 attempts, in addition to a single rushing TD. A double dip at half and some savvy clock management, along with 14 points from the defense, allowed the Bears to win 24-19.

 

The Bears continue their end of season divisional gauntlet next week against the Lions, followed by matchups against the Vikings and the Packers in 2 of the last 4 games of the season. If the Bears hope to keep their playoff hopes alive, they’ll need to continue their strong defensive play and protect the ball for the remainder of the season.