The Chicago Bears lost to the Miami Dolphins, 35-32, despite a breakout game from second-year quarterback Justin Fields. Sunday’s performance by Fields was one of the most electric this season, with 301 total yards and four touchdowns.
Chicago’s defense couldn’t stop Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, allowing him to complete 70% of his passes for 302 yards and three touchdowns. But, as expected, Miami’s star wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle had a busy day combining 12 catches for 228 yards and two touchdowns.
However, this game was about Fields, who had 178 yards rushing, including a 61-yard touchdown run on third-and-6 to cut the Dolphins’ lead to three points in the third quarter.
New Bears receiver Chase Claypool had a handful of opportunities. The former Steeler had two receptions for 13 yards on six targets and four yards rushing. It will be exciting to see Claypool get more opportunities in the offense.
His arrival seems to have helped receiver Darnell Mooney, who finished with seven receptions for 43 yards and one touchdown. For Mooney, it was his first receiving touchdown since Week 16 of last year.
Tight end Cole Kmet also saw an increased role in the passing game, catching five passes for 41 yards and two touchdowns.
The Bears’ defense could not get stops on third down and failed to get pressure on Tua. As a result, Chicago finished the day with zero sacks and allowed Miami to convert 55% of their third down attempts.
A bright spot on the defense was undrafted rookie Jack Sanborn, who got the start at linebacker and turned seven tackles. However, with Roquan Smith in Baltimore, Sanborn seems to be the replacement for now.
Chicago is rebuilding for the future, but the offense has taken giant strides from earlier in the season. It will be exciting to see how this team continues to develop.
The Bears host the Detroit Lions next week at Soldier Field on Nov. 13.
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