The Chicago Bears picked up a hard-fought win in a close game against a tough defense in the Minnesota Vikings, and they did it on the road. So with that being said, here are my three big takeaways from the game.
Justin Fields battled and delivered
The Bears coaching staff didn't do Fields any favors in this game. Offensive coordinator, Luke Getsy, relied too heavily on screens and didn't allow Justin to throw the ball downfield. The Vikings, known for their blitz-heavy packages under defensive coordinator Brian Flores, proved to be a challenge, but the Bears game plan should have been more effective and better prepared.
Despite these issues, Justin Fields managed to complete 27 out of 37 passes for 217 yards and added 59 rushing yards, nearly reaching 300 total yards. Although he didn't score any touchdowns and had two brutal fumbles, his resilience shined through as he led a game-winning drive to cap off a close win for the Bears. Justin Fields showcased his toughness once again, and that's something to admire.
Matt Eberflus is a great defensive coordinator
I've been critical of Matt Eberflus as a head coach, but he's really turned the Bears defense around since he took over the play calling. The defense has been performing very well, now with 7 interceptions in the last two games. The trade for Montez Sweat seems to have made a big impact on the defensive line. Linebackers are swarming to the ball. TJ Edwards is making a case for an All-Pro type season. The secondary is balling out too.
I gotta give credit where it's due. Eberflus is a great defensive mind and he's proving it once again in Chicago.
The Bears need to strike a deal with Jaylon Johnson
Even though I might be a bit late in recognizing this, extending Jaylon Johnson is the right move, even if it means paying a bit more than initially desired. Quality cornerbacks are hard to find in the league, and Johnson has the potential to become an great one. Despite a couple of missed opportunities for pick-sixes in consecutive weeks, he has picked up two interceptions in the same timeframe, totaling four for the season. He is a young player and appears to be improving week to week. If a deal can be reached in the range of $16-$19 million per season, I think the Bears should highly consider signing the dotted line. And do it fast as the price might continue to go up if Johnson continues this level of play in the final five games of the season.
Bears vs Vikings Recap: Justin Fields delivered when it mattered most
For a fun and informative recap of the Bears vs. Vikings game, make sure to watch the video below or listen on your preferred podcast platform.
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