The excitement of the Chicago Bears playing spoiler in multiple games this season has been fun, but one aspect of their game has been aggravating for fans: penalties.
Chicago has been one of the most penalized teams in the NFL, with multiple issues with pre-snap penalties and flat-out dumb mistakes. The Bears were finally able to move away from that in their 24-20 dramatic win against the New York Giants.
In an incredible turn of events, the Bears only had three penalties for 25 yards in the game. This is a stark contrast from the team's average of 8.8 penalties per game before the Giants showdown.
Bears finally becoming disciplined at the right time of the season
It has been a frustration for not only Bears fans, but for head coach Ben Johnson, who has preached discipline and being smart on the field. The pre-snap issues have been a problem since day one of training camp and haven't improved until they played New York.
One of the biggest offenders of the pre-snap penalties was Darnell Wright, who had six total penalties before the bye week and has played clean football since. The offensive line has been much better about it and seems to be in a good rhythm, with some continuity built in.
Entering Week 11, Chicago is still tied for fifth in the NFL in total penalties with 74 and sixth in yards against them at 601. The Bears are not in a perfect spot with their team, but the Giants game was at least a good first step in that direction.
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Coming up for the Bears is the Minnesota Vikings, which is one of the biggest games of the season as they look to avenge their loss and win their first NFC North game of the year. Penalties could make or break this game, so Chicago needs to be smart and limit the number of mistakes against their division rival.