Fields Returns But Bears Still Can’t Finish, Fall to Lions 31-26 😣

Here’s the Quick -n- Dirrty..

• Bears had control of the game early but couldn’t finish in the 4th quarter, losing 31-26 to the Lions
• Defense created 3 turnovers but gave up 17 points in the final 3 minutes
• Offense moved the ball well but had costly penalties and mistakes
• Coaching was too conservative late in the game, played not to lose
• Changes likely needed, especially on offense, to fix 4th quarter collapses

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Another Heartbreaking Loss for Bears as Lions Score 17 in 4th Quarter

The Chicago Bears suffered another devastating loss on Sunday, collapsing in the 4th quarter to allow the Detroit Lions to score 17 unanswered points and steal a 31-26 victory. As a diehard Bears fan who keeps it real, this was yet another disappointing finish that shows our team still can’t put together a complete 60-minute effort. There are some clear takeaways from this game that GM Ryan Poles needs to address in the offseason if the Bears hope to be competitive in 2023.

Bears Control Most of Game, Lions Strike Late

For the majority of the game on Sunday, it looked like the Bears were firmly in control. With Justin Fields back from injury, the offense was able to move the ball well, both through the air and on the ground. Fields had a solid day, going 16-23 for 169 yards with 1 TD pass and chipping in 18 rushes for 104 yards. The Bears offense had good balance, with Khalil Herbert adding 16 carries for 35 yards.

The defense was also creating plenty of turnovers, including interceptions by TJ Edwards, Tremaine Edmunds, and Tyreek Steelton. The pass rush made its presence felt, led by newcomer Montez Sweat who notched his first sack. The Bears had a 14-10 lead at halftime and looked poised to close out a much-needed win.

Penalties, Injuries, and Conservative Play Calling Doomed Bears

Unfortunately, the Bears couldn’t maintain their strong play for all 4 quarters. Costly penalties stalled too many drives, continuing a season-long trend of undisciplined play. Injuries also struck key players like Lucas Patrick, forcing backups like Dan Feeney into action before they were fully prepared.

After building a 6-point lead in the 4th quarter, the conservative play-calling reared its ugly head once again. The offense stopped attacking and tried to just run out the clock. Predictable run plays and lack of aggression gave the Lions chances to get back in it.

The defense also shifted to a too passive zone scheme in the 4th quarter, allowing the Lions to quickly march down the field. Within a span of just 3 minutes, Detroit scored 17 unanswered points to stun the Bears 31-26. It was yet another epic collapse when the game was on the line.

Changes Needed to Fix 4th Quarter Collapses

While Fields showed positives in his return, this loss makes it 6 straight for the Bears as their record falls to 3-8. Much of the blame has to fall on the coaching staff, especially Luke Getsy on offense and Matt Eberflus on defense. The play calling patterns are clearly not putting the Bears in a position to finish games and close out wins.

GM Ryan Poles has a difficult decision to make on whether major coaching changes need to be made this offseason. At the very least, it seems clear that new offensive and defensive coordinators are needed to bring fresh aggressive strategies late in games. Personnel-wise, the offensive line and receiver positions need upgrades as well.

The Bears have the framework in place with players like Fields, Herbert, and Johnson on offense and rising stars like Edwards on defense. But the finishing ability and killer instinct are still lacking. If Poles can address that via coaching staff and key additions in the draft and free agency, there is hope for the future. For now though, Bears fans are once again lamenting another heartbreaker filled with missed opportunities.

Key Takeaways from Bears Painful Loss to Lions

• Controlled game early before another 4th quarter collapse
• Costly penalties and predictable play calling doomed Bears
• Fields showed promise in return but loss overshadows
• Conservative schemes on both sides yielded 17 points in 3 minutes
• Clear need for new offensive and defensive coordinators
• Changes in personnel also required, especially on O-line
• Coaching holding back Bears from finishing and closing out wins
• GM Poles faces tough decisions on staff and roster this offseason

The Bears have talent but can’t execute for 60 minutes. New aggressive coaches and key additions could lead to better results in close games next season. But for now, it’s another long week of frustration for Bears fans after a crushing loss to a division rival. The 4th quarter woes continue to haunt this team, and major changes are likely necessary.

Bear Down Bears fans! and as always… PEACE!