The Chicago Bears secured a convincing 26-14 victory against the New Orleans Saints at Soldier Field, concluding their fourth consecutive win. This performance marked a significant milestone for the Bears, as it was their first four-game winning streak since 2018. However, the performance of individual players raised questions about consistency and execution.
Bears’ Performance Assessment Against the Saints
Quarterback Play
Caleb Williams received a grade of D-plus for his performance. He struggled with decision-making and missed opportunities, finishing with a subpar 61.7 rating. Williams’ inability to make big plays and hold onto snaps was concerning for the Bears, especially given the team’s winning streak.
Offensive Line Evaluation
The offensive line earned a B-plus rating for their efforts. The Bears rushed for an impressive 222 yards, their highest total since 2023. While Williams faced pressure during drop-backs, the overall performance in the rushing game was commendable.
Running Backs Shine
The running backs received an A for their outstanding performance. D’Andre Swift ran for 124 yards, marking his second-highest total as a Bear. Rookie Kyle Monangai added another 81 yards. The Bears averaged 6.5 yards per carry, significantly improving their standing in the NFL rushing statistics.
Defensive Line Performance
The defensive line was graded A-minus. The Bears recorded four sacks against Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler, with Montez Sweat notably contributing a strip-sack that led to the first points of the game. Sweat’s performance was a welcome sign for Bears fans.
Secondary Performance
The secondary received a B rating. Safety Kevin Byard III made his 33rd interception, demonstrating his skill and experience. Cornerback Nahshon Wright also recorded an interception. While the unit made some big plays, they did allow significant passing yards during crucial moments.
Coaching Insights
The coaching staff was given a B-minus for their strategies. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen saw success with four turnovers against his former team. However, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson faced scrutiny over Williams’ inconsistent performance, though he was praised for challenging a Saints trick play effectively.
Conclusion
While the Bears celebrated their fourth straight win, the assessment of individual performances reflected areas needing improvement. The victory showcased the strength of their running game and defensive line but highlighted concerns about the quarterback and secondary. The Bears aim to build on this success as they prepare for future challenges.
