The Chicago Bears weren't just beating the Detroit Lions for the first 55 minutes on Sunday. They were beating them up. It felt like the teams were on an even playing field. One team was supposed to have a far superior roster. Instead, the Bears seemed to show far more ability in several areas than anybody expected. They were a competitor. Then, the final five minutes happened. Some awful decisions by Matt Eberflus and his coaching staff gave Detroit the window they needed to steal the game. It was the second time the Bears coughed up what should've been an easy win this season.
This was the latest instance where it seemed the players weren't the problem with this team. Chicago has talent, and it showed frequently at Ford Field. D.J. Moore had another great game. The offensive line paved the way for 183 yards. Tremaine Edmunds and T.J. Edwards both had interceptions. Montez Sweat had a sack. What stood out the most was the draft class. Darnell Wright shut down Aidan Hutchinson for most of the afternoon. Gervon Dexter tipped an interception and had two QB hits. Tyrique Stevenson had an interception and forced a fumble. Roschon Johnson averaged five yards per carry.
For all the issues plaguing this team, it has become clear they finally have a GM who knows what he's doing.
The Chicago Bears should feel good about Ryan Poles.
His tenure across the first two years hasn't been perfect. The Larry Ogunjobi and Chase Claypool moves still bring a sour taste to the mouth. He also can't be excused for the decision to hire Eberflus as head coach. That said, his work is bearing serious fruit on the field. Several of his acquisitions are starting to shine. It's hard not to imagine what this team could be with better coaching. If they don't go to pieces in the 4th quarter against Denver, New Orleans, and Detroit, there is a real possibility they're 6-5 right now.
People will kill the Poles argument because of the Eberflus situation. Let's not forget franchise legend Jim Finks also had a problem finding the right head coach. The most important job for a GM is stacking the roster with talent. We have more and more proof that Poles is that guy. Not only that, but he's set the organization up for a huge spring in 2024. They currently hold the #1 and #4 spots in the NFL draft. That will give them a golden opportunity to stack the roster with two more blue-chip talents.
If the Bears can find a more competent coaching staff next year, it no longer feels crazy to think they can be a playoff team.
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