This wasn't a perfect game by any stretch of the imagination, but it almost feels like the kind of game the Chicago Bears needed to have to see if there is grit and determination from them.
In the Bears' matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday, the home team in silver and black had the lead for a good portion of it from about eight seconds left in the first quarter until 1:34 to go in the fourth quarter. That final score was the defining moment of the game, as the offense conducted an 11-play, 69-yard drive that took over five minutes to complete, culminating in a touchdown.
The next and final drive from the defense was even bigger, with them only allowing 22 yards and forcing a 54-yard field goal attempt. It would be Josh Blackwell coming to the rescue with a clutch field goal block to seal the 25-24 win for the Bears over the Raiders.
Yes, it was an ugly win for the Bears, but there's one thing fans can't argue with the result of this game: there was plenty of fight in them. That all starts with their head coach, Ben Johnson.
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For two straight weeks, it was all smiles and excitement from Johnson and the Bears after the game. This time, it felt different as this was one that they had to grind out to win up until the final whistle.
Bears fans might be taken aback by seeing something like that, as the team barely showed any fight a year ago. Johnson credited his team for keeping their mindset right throughout the game during his press conference.
"It's easy to get frustrated, but we don't panic. That's not who we are, that's not what we do."
A culture-setting statement from the guy who has changed everything about this team. These wouldn't be the statements being made after games last year by Matt Eberflus. The Windy City certainly sees a different wind blowing in the air with Johnson leading the way.
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At 2-2, the bye week is coming at the right time, with multiple injuries all around and the Bears needing to get healthy. This bye week feels much better with two consecutive wins under their belts.