The Chicago Bears have entered a new era, offensively, with Ben Johnson getting fans all riled up and ready to see more and more creativity. But, they still have a ways to go to catch up to Johnson's former team, the Detroit Lions.
There are a few reasons why the Bears still have a ways to go, but one of them is blatantly obvious through three weeks. It's the run game.
When speaking to the media this week and talking about his very own running back duo, Lions quarterback Jared Goff sang David Montgomery's praises left and right. And he, of course, had to mention something that still haunts Bears fans today:
"I saw D-Mo from across the field for years in Chicago, and I was shocked when they let him walk. And shoot when we landed him, it was like, 'holy smokes, we just got one of the best backs in the league.'"
The Bears miss David Montgomery more than Ryan Poles is willing to admit
When general manager Ryan Poles let Montgomery walk, fans were pretty sure he didn't have a full-fledged plan in place to fill those shoes. And, here we are, a couple of seasons later, and Montgomery's shoes still have yet to be filled.
The Bears signed D'Andre Swift in effort to bolster the running back room, last year, but he ended his first year in Chicago averaging a measly 3.8 yards per carry.
Now, with an improved offensive line and a much smarter play caller at the helm, Swift has averaged ... wait for it ... 3.5 yards per carry through three weeks.
Sure, it's still very early. But, Swift is exactly who we thought he was. He is the anti-Montgomery. When it comes time for contact, Swift will hit the turf more often than not. He's done as soon as he's hit.
Montgomery, on the other hand, was known for his ability to break tackles and finish runs. He brought the physicality that the Bears are lacking dearly. To this day, Chicago has yet to find anyone close to Montgomery's talent level, and if you're listening to Goff, the Bears let one of the best backs walk right out their door.
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It's a harsh reality, but one that is indeed reality. Bears fans loved Montgomery and it's safe to say he is missed. Now, Poles is going to have to continue trying to find the next man up.