Chicago Bears: Five quick takeaways from the first preseason game

The Chicago Bears played their first preseason game on Saturday afternoon and despite going down 13-0, rallied back to win 20-13 over the Dolphins. It was a tale of two halves in this game as the offense started off pretty bad in the first half, before doing a 180 in the second half.

All things considered, I took away more good than I did bad, from this game. Of course, this is just one game in the preseason so I’m not here to overreact to things but just talk about some observations from the game.

The Chicago Bears looked good in their first preseason game

Takeaway No. 1: Justin Fields thrived

Justin Fields was no doubt, the biggest story heading into this game. Since he was drafted, fans have been salivating at the thought of seeing him play and show what he has to offer. I’d say he did well in his first game.

Fields went 14-20, 142 yards, and one touchdown. Also doing a lot of damage with his legs, running four times for 37 yards and another touchdown. He got off to a very slow start including a dropped snap and fumble on the same drive, otherwise, Fields looks up to the task of being the future QB.

Takeaway No. 2: Alec Ogletree has been a sleeper signing

Alec Ogletree was just recently signed but is already looking to be a solid contributor on this defense. After being a turnover machine during training camp, he was all over the field against Miami.

Ogletree was out there with the first team and you can argue may have been the best player out there for the Bears. He did get beat on a big play by Dolphins TE Mike Gesecki before making up for it with a great goalline stop.

Takeaway No. 3: Halftime adjustments

I mentioned earlier how poor the Bears’ offense was to start the game but the offense was great in the second half, particularly in the third quarter. I’ve been very critical of Matt Nagy in the past about how stubborn he can be but he had his guys ready to play in that second half.

The Chicago Bears started off the game with five straight punts before scoring a field goal just before the half. From that point on the offense looked very much in sync including a beautiful TE leak play call by Nagy.

Takeaway No. 4 Khalil Herbert has something to offer

Khalil Herbert got quite a bit of run in this game and it was great to see. He ran it six times for 38 yards which is an average of more than 6 yards per carry. Herber, of course, a late-round pick by Chicago this past draft looks to have a clear path to RB3.

Takeaway No. 5: Offensive line gave up no sacks

Besides Fields, the other story that has dominated Bears news as of late is the offensive line. Second-round pick Teven Jenkins hasn’t even practiced and many have questioned the lack of depth on the line.

At the very least the line looked okay against a very good Dolphins defense. Although to be fair, the Dolphins’ strength is in their secondary. However you want to paint it, not giving up any sacks is a great thing, especially for this injured o-line.