The Chicago Bears laid a dud in their final game of the season. They had a chance to make a huge statement by going into Lambeau Field and knocking the Green Bay Packers out of playoff contention. Instead, they resorted to their old habits and limped away into the offseason on a very low note.
If it was not for the decent performances by a select few of the players there might not have been a winners list at all this week. Thankfully, the consistent contributors who have been dependable once again came through for the team.
Chicago Bears Week 18 Winner No. 1: Tyrique Stevenson
While the secondary did struggle as a unit to contain the Packers' young and inexperienced receiving corp, Tyrique Stevenson once again was a standout player. He continues to make plays each week and has been developing into a very good starting boundary corner. He was asked to play the big role with Jaylon Johnson out with a shoulder injury, and he did more than enough as the primary corner on the outside.
He had a key pass breakup early in the first quarter to prevent a touchdown after Romeo Doubs highpointed a pass from Jordan Love. He stayed with the play and used his physicality to rip the ball from Doubs before he could secure the catch. That is the type of play that Stevenson provides each week. His energy and physicality are almost unmatched on this team.
There were growing pains with Stevenson early in the year due to those habits. Too many DPIs, holdings, and unnecessary roughness penalties were called on him. He has cleaned up his play while not sacrificing what he brings to the table, and it has shown over recent weeks. The Bears have found a great partner for Jaylon Johnson if they keep them together, or potentially even his replacement.