The disappointment in the Chicago Bears grows each week with yet another close loss this week against the Atlanta Falcons. With the game within one score the whole game, the Bears couldn’t keep up towards the end.
Despite the high-powered offense of the past few weeks, they struggled to move the ball at times. QB Justin Fields did his thing today, but was somewhat subdued by the Falcons’ pass rush. He was still able to rush for 85 yards and a touchdown while passing for 153 yards plus another touchdown. One of these passes was a highlight complete to TE Cole Kmet, as Kmet athletically leaped into the air and grabbed the ball with one hand. RB David Montgomery stepped in as the feature back again with Khalil Herbert’s injury, and he performed admirably. Rushing for 85 yards and a touchdown, Montgomery was also the leading receiver for the Bears, catching all three of his targets for 54 additional yards.
The defense had some big moments this game, but also folded at times. LB Jaquan Brisker and DB DeAndre Houston-Carson had big turnovers, each punching out the football for fumbles. Brisker was a force everywhere, contributing again to his breakout rookie season.
Overall Reaction: Bears fall to Falcons 24-27
The Bears’ offensive skill position players tried their best today, with Fields, Montgomery, and WR Darnell Mooney making the most of their opportunities. However; their opportunities were fairly limited due to the poor blocking of the offensive line. They constantly got to Fields, leading to four sacks. Most concerning is QB Justin Fields’ injury. Fields had to be carted from the locker room after the game, and was seen grabbing at his left collarbone and shoulder area in the last drive. The referees allowed Fields to take a beating as well, missing many late and illegal hits.
The defense struggled at containing the run in this one, and also gave up passing plays at bad times. While turnovers helped them out, they allowed too much yardage and chunk plays. While rookie DB Kyler Gordon looked good at tackling in the open field, his coverage skills could use some improvement. Fellow rookie Jaquan Brisker, as mentioned above, has been great all season and is now a staple to the defense.
Kicker Cairo Santos unfortunately missed his first field goal today, although it was a long one from 56 yards. He went 3/3 from his extra points.
