The Chicago Bears imposed their will on the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 13 in the best way that fans of the Windy City have not seen in 40 years.
Chicago had an easy time running the football on the Eagles to the point that both their running backs, Kyle Monangai and D'Andre Swift, were feasting with big games. They each reached the 100-yard mark for the game.
Swift and Monangai became the first pair of Bears runners to run for over 100 yards since 1985. That was Walter Payton and Matt Suhey who last did it.
Bears continue to dominate on the ground
It seems like a lifetime since the beginning of the season when the Bears were struggling to run the football. All of a sudden, it's the biggest strength of the team.
Swift started the season on a strong note with strong performances against the Washington Commanders and New Orleans Saints. Over the last four weeks, it has been Monangai getting more carries and earning Ben Johnson's trust in the offense.
The future has been set in the backfield, as the Bears would be smart to keep Swift and Monangai for the long term, as they have been a great duo. Swift is the quicker back, while Monangai can hammer it in the middle of the defensive line.
With the recent struggles of Caleb Williams with the off-target throws, it makes sense now for Chicago to become more of a running team. They have the backs in Monangai and Swift to get it done, and the offensive line has been dominant in the run blocking.
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Chicago has found the winning formula, and Johnson will make sure the plan is to stay on the ground the majority of the time.