Chicago Bears run defense could be among worst in NFL history

Dec 22, 2013; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Chicago Bears outside linebacker Lance Briggs (55) and defensive end Julius Peppers (90) speak on the bench during the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Chicago Bears 54-11. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /

When you think of the Chicago Bears, you think of defense. Well – at least to a point.

It wasn’t even that long ago that the Bears were considered to be a solid defensive squad, but things have changed quite drastically recently as the Bears – barring a strong improvement in Week 17 – could very well be owners of one of the worst run defenses in over a half century, this according to the Chicago Tribune.

The Bears are currently giving up an eye-popping 5.4 yards per carry on the ground. The team nearest them would be the Dallas Cowboys, who ranked at 29th and are giving up 4.8 yards.

As if that’s not bad enough, teams have trampled the Bears run defense to a tune of 161.5 yards per game. That’s nearly 26 yards more per game than the Jacksonville Jaguars, who rank 29th.

The 5.4 yards per carry is currently the sixth worst number in NFL history (and worst since 1961) – yet shockingly, the Bears are still in the midst of a potential postseason birth with a victory over the Green Bay Packers in their season finale.

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