It happened again.
The Packers trounced the Bears 38-20. The Quarterback play was underwhelming, and the play-calling would make any other team’s fans feel better about theirs. In a better world, this game is a one-off and not a cause for concern. It’s simply a bad game that you brush off and wish for the best later. But this isn’t a better world, and it’s exactly the type of game you feared.
If you’re a Chicago Bears fan, this is just another disappointing Sunday in what seems like a lifetime of disappointments. This franchise hasn’t had a winning season since last decade, and has not won a game since October 24th, 2022. Despair is no longer an unfamiliar face. It’s the devil on your shoulder who tells you every Sunday, “same shit, different toilet”.
The problem is: it’s correct.
Despite the coach, the general manager, and the CEO being new, nothing has changed for the Bears. The defense underwhelms, the Quarterback cannot pass. In fact, the only bright spot for almost every Bears season is this: there’s something good at running back, but that is all and it’s not enough.
While Bears fans watched in hope at Roschon Johnson’s tenacity, effort, and raw talent, they couldn’t help but feel melancholy at the abysmal play from every other part of the ball.
Justin Fields, who fans have placed their hopes in, underwhelmed with a 24 of 37 performance for 216 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Sadly, Justin reverted back to many old and painful habits: holding onto the ball too long, becoming anxious in the pocket and not allowing routes to develop before he takes whatever is left. Meanwhile the defense let first year starter Jordan Love go turnover-free for with three passing touchdowns. It is a painfully familiar scene.
Be clear, It is not all or even solely on Justin Fields. Newly extended TE Cole Kmet played a completely non-physical game while Guard Nate Davis became a turnstile for opposing defensive lineman. In addition, Luke Getsy called one of his more confusing games with designed sneaks to Cole Kmet and bubble screens in more obvious downs situations.
The bad news: this loss is horrible and might be an indicator of the entire season.
The good news: It is Week 1 and the offense had an eerily similar slow start last year before it exploded for several weeks.
The reality: the defense probably won’t get much better.
