Chicago Bears Hang On to Beat Giants 27-21: Week 6 Report Card

Oct 10, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (34) runs the ball against the Chicago Bears during the second quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

Defensive Line (D)

It’s hard to grade this group when they’re missing their top three defensive tackles.  Shea McClellin needs to be switched to a 3-4 OLB or he’s on the nonstop train to Bustville.  The Giants rushed at the Bears early and often and the worst rush offense in the league put up over 100 yards rushing by Brandon Jacobs, a guy who was on his couch a couple of weeks ago.  That starts up front on the line.

Linebackers (B-)

I thought Lance Briggs had a few nice stops on rush defense and was credited with the Bears’ lone sack of the game.  DJ Williams left the game with a chest injury, so Jon Bostic got his first substantial action with the top defense.   James Anderson also missed some snaps late in the game, pressing Blake Costanzo into action.

Cornerbacks (B)

Oct 10, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears cornerback Tim Jennings (26) runs the ball after making an interception against the New York Giants during the second half at Soldier Field. The Bears beat the Giants 27-21. Mandatory Credit: Rob Grabowski-USA TODAY Sports

Peanut Tillman was in street clothes, which was probably a wise move to let him heal up.  Tim Jennings stepped up with two interceptions, probably the most important plays of the game.  His first interception was one of the easiest pick-6’s you’ll see.  His second pick helped preserve the win, as the Giants marched towards a decisive score late in the game.  Zack Bowman had a pick subbing for Tillman.

Safeties (D)

Major Wright and Chris Conte led the Bears with 10 and 6 tackles respectively, but I thought they played poorly.  Wright took bad angles, couldn’t secure tackles and was poor in coverage.  Conte was trucked repeatedly.

Special Teams (C)

Joe DeCamillis has not impressed me.  His coverage units have taken a big step backwards compared to Dave Toub’s units of years past.  Robbie Gould continues to be solid gold, nailing another 50+ yard field goal.  Adam Podlesh had a couple of nice punts, pinning the Giants inside their own 10, only to let the Giants move the ball on a 91-yard scoring drive.  Devin Hester continues to baffle with his decisions on when to take the ball out of the end zone on kick returns.

Coaching (C)

I thought the coaching improved, especially coming on a short week.  The decision to go for it on 4th and goal could have proven costly since the Bears only pulled off a 6 point win.