Chicago Bears Rally to Beat Bucs 21-13: Rapid Reaction
Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Some notable performances by some young Bears defenders. Stephen Paea had a couple of sacks and some nice pressures throughout the day. He also held up at the point of attack on a 4th and 1 attempt by the Bucs late in the game. Christian Jones looks to be rounding into a real linebacker when he stepped in for the injured Lance Briggs in the second half. Demontre Hurst got plenty of time and flashed in pass defense. The Bears were able hold rookie wide receiver to 3 catches for 47 yards and a TD. Considering he went over 200 last week, that’s a great job by the D.
I liked what I saw from returner Marc Mariani. He looked like a competent, dare I say capable returner. He knew when to take it out of the end zone and when to take a knee. He was able to consistently get out past the 20. The special teams still had some issues including a shank by punter Pat O’Donnell late in the game which set the Bucs up with terrific field position trailing by 8 with 3 minutes left.
With the Lions falling to the Patriots for their second loss in a row coming off their bye, the Thanksgiving Day matchup sets up as a chance to pull to within a game of the Lions. Let’s hope the Bears avoid another slow start and don’t ruin our Thanksgiving.
Stay tuned to Bear Goggles On for all the latest on the Bears during the short week. If you’re traveling or have other plans for Turkey Day, don’t worry, we’ve got your back. We’ll have complete Bears – Lions coverage throughout the week and on Game Day.