No. 4 key to the success of the Chicago Bears: Takeaways and more takeaways
Alright, finally a key that is focused on the defensive side of the ball. One thing the Chicago Bears lacked over the last couple of years on defense is takeaways. In 2018, this team dominated this part of the game. Under Vic Fangio’s tutelage, the team had a historic defense led by a league-leading 36 takeaways. To put that into perspective, the team only had 16 takeaways last year.
The good news though is that under Matt Eberflus’ direction, the Indianapolis Colts have been one of the best teams in takeaways over the last four seasons. In 2021, the Colts were second in takeaways with 33. In 2020, the team was fifth in the NFL with 25 takeaways. In 2019 the team was 11th with 23 and in 2018 the team was ranked 10th with 26.
When I look at this defensive roster compared to what we have seen in Indianapolis, I’d have to argue that the Bears roster is just as good, if not better in many areas. I know they are young, but I think the Bears’ defensive backfield could become elite with the pairing of Jaylon Johnson and rookie Kyler Gordon. The addition of fellow rookie defensive back, Jaquan Brisker also looks promising. Now add in Robert Quinn if he stays and Roquan Smith. This defense has the potential to be a top-10 unit.
My biggest concern regarding the defense is the three-technique. I’m not super high on Justin Jones despite talking about how he could surprise some people this year. Here is to hoping that surprise comes true.