The Chicago Bears took one small step to respectability with their decisive 40-20 victory over the Washington Commanders. Time will tell if the win marked a turning point in the season, but it did give fans some reasons to be optimistic.
Justin Fields followed up his career-best performance with another stellar game. With his performance Thursday, his stat line for the last two weeks put him in elite company. Throwing for 617 yards on 43 of 64 and Eight Touchdowns!
DJ Moore continues to show why Ryan Poles targeted him in the off-season. Moore was targeted ten times, catching eight, for a career-best 230 yards. Three of those receptions went for TDs, and Moore thought he was robbed of a 4th score when he was ruled to have stepped out of bounds. He is the only Bears receiver in franchise history to have over 500 yards receiving and five touchdowns in the first five games of the season.
Teven Jenkins came off the injured list and made an immediate impact. Teven did not allow a sack in limited playing time while being eased back into the lineup. Darnell Wright continues to make strides at right tackle. The right side of the line looks formidable as Nate Davis and Wright develop chemistry.
There is still much to improve, especially on defense. Washington broke through in the second half, scoring on the first possession of the third quarter. Injuries limited the Bears as most of the starting defensive backs were unavailable due to injuries. Help may be on the way. JaylAon Johnson is expecting to play this weekend. Kyler Gordon is also hopeful to return. He is eligible to return to the active roster this week.
Sunday's game is a critical time for the Bears. Then can win consecutive games for the first time under Matt Eberflus. Minnesota may be without their leading receiver. Justin Jefferson suffered an injury to his hamstring during the Vikings' loss to Kansas City this weekend.
A second consecutive win would provide a much-needed shot of confidence. With winnable games on the schedule, the Bears have a chance at respectability.
