Here’s the Quick -n- Dirrty..
- Bears beat the Cardinals 27-16 on Christmas day, relied on strong run game from Khalil Herbert
- Offense scored 21 points in first quarter but then stalled in second half due to questionable play calling
- Cole Kmet had over 100 receiving yards before getting injured, concerning trend of injuries
- Defense played well early but switched to zone coverage in second half allowing Cardinals comeback
- Inconsistent coaching and play calling remains an issue, upcoming game against Falcons should result in a Bears win
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Hey there, fellow Bears Fans!
The Chicago Bears relied on a dominant ground game from running back Khalil Herbert to beat the Arizona Cardinals 27-16 on Christmas Day. Herbert rushed for 112 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries, stepping up with David Montgomery sidelined by injury. Quarterback Justin Fields also chipped in 97 rushing yards and a score as the Bears offense exploded for 21 first quarter points.
Despite the hot start, concerning trends emerged once again for the Bears. The offense stalled in the second half, managing just three more points. Questionable play calling from offensive coordinator Luke Getsy was under fire, especially dialing up a failed wildcat play on third and short. The Bears have struggled to play complete games all season, with the offense fading and the defense allowing opponents back into games with conservative play calls.
Injuries also reared their ugly head again, as tight end Cole Kmet and wide receiver Darnell Mooney left the game after promising starts. Kmet had four catches for 107 yards, finally eclipsing 100 yards receiving for the first time this year. But his breakout was cut short by another injury, continuing a frustrating trend for the Bears’ passing game weapons.
The Bears defense held Arizona scoreless in the first half, but switched to a softer zone coverage in the second half. This allowed Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray to find his rhythm, hitting receiver James Conner for a receiving touchdown. Murray ended up with 271 passing yards and Conner added 45 rushing yards. The Bears didn’t allow an explosive play, but slowly bled yardage.
Head coach Matt Eberflus has drawn criticism for conservative adjustments, taking the pressure off opposing offenses when carrying a lead. This nearly cost the Bears a win yet again, as it has multiple times this season. Despite inconsistent play calling, penalties, and missed opportunities, the Bears talent led them to a victory against an overmatched Cardinals team.
With two games remaining, the 5-10 Bears will look to build momentum against the unpredictable Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons pulled a major upset over the Buffalo Bills in Week 17, but also have bad losses like one to the Carolina Panthers. The Bears and Falcons both struggle with consistency and identity, making this matchup a toss up.
As a diehard Bears fan, I expect Chicago to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball against Atlanta. The Falcons defense is vulnerable against the run, which plays into the strength of the Bears offense. Their offense also relies heavily on the run game, which the Bears should be able to slow down. I predict Khalil Herbert will lead the way to a convincing Bears win.
This young Bears squad still needs to put complete games together to reach their potential. The coaching staff makes progress but also questionable decisions each week. Injuries have hampered continuity and growth. But the foundation of a competitive rushing offense and stout defense provides reason for optimism. With a few more dynamic playmakers and smarter coaching, the Bears future remains bright.
Bear Down Bears fans! and as always… PEACE!
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