8. The Bears are experiencing growing pains
The first-half version of the Chicago Bears were everything and more than what even optimists were hoping for. Head coach Matt Nagy produced creative plays that allowed quarterback Mitchell Trubisky to find a quick rhythm. Trubisky was decisive and devastatingly accurate at times despite tight windows.
The defense also played well as Khalil Mack dominated on limited snaps. Mack preyed on DeShone Kizer, forcing two turnovers on consecutive drives.
But then Aaron Rodgers stunningly came back in, and the Bears lost their cool in the second-half.
The play-calling was part to blame for the Bears’ collapse, and so was Trubisky losing his cool in key moments. Another key moment was cornerback Kyle Fuller dropping the easiest interception chance he’ll ever have.
It’s a painful loss, but one that can be a learning experience for Nagy. He must separate himself from former mentor Andy Reid’s weakness of overthinking critical conversion downs. Just run the ball with Jordan Howard when in doubt, Matt.
It’ll also help to have Mack on a full pitch count, and expect Trey Burton to be more involved over the course of the season. All-in-all, there were a lot of positives amidst the pain for the Bears.