The Chicago Bears defense has been a force to be reckoned with over the past few weeks, where they’re established themselves as one of the more dominant defenses in the NFL.
Since the addition of star defensive end Montez Sweat, the Bears defense has been takeaway machines (14) and pressured the quarterback at a higher rate (17 sacks). They’ve had games with multiple interceptions and have consistently been a top run defense all season.
But cornerback Jaylon Johnson said the defense still has one thing left to accomplish this season.
“I think we’re due for a shutout,” Johnson said, via Courtney Cronin. “Honestly, doing something new. We’ve had four turnover games, interceptions, touchdowns, but I think if we can come out with a shutout in these next two weeks – one of these games – I think that’ll be big for what we’re trying to do and establish as a dominant defense.”
The Bears defense has turned a huge corner since the beginning of the season, when they were allowing 27.3 points per game through the first eight games. Since Week 9, Chicago is allowing 18.1 points per game.
As far as pitching a shutout goes, the Bears have showed they have the capability. In three of the past four games, Chicago has held opponents under 14 points per game. That includes holding the Minnesota Vikings to 10 points on Monday Night Football in Week 12.
The Bears will host the Atlanta Falcons in Week 17 before heading to Lambeau Field to close the season out against the Green Bay Packers. While it won’t be impossible, Chicago has its work cut out for them.