Chicago Bears Preseason: How all 3 phases fared against the Titans in Week 1

It’s that time of year when we all force ourselves to be reminded of one statement: it’s only preseason. Still, it’s hard not to get excited after the Bears’ 23-17 preseason victory over the Titans.

There were many highs to celebrate (and some lows to really think about) as fans anxiously await the true home opener against Green Bay.

And while “it’s only preseason,” there’s plenty to discuss across all three phases from the Chicago Bears’ first of three preseason bouts.

Defense: On the Rise

It seems like Matt Eberflus’s defensive mentality is starting to resonate with this roster. It’s worrisome when a defensive-minded head coach leads a team that finishes the 2022 season with the fewest sacks and most points allowed per game. But in Saturday’s win against Tennessee, some bright spots emerged, signaling a new trajectory for this squad.

Considering that DeMarcus Walker, Yannick Ngakoue, Tremaine Edmunds, and Jaquan Brisker did not participate in the game, the Chicago Bears defense still boasted some remarkable stats. One in particular that stood out was the sack total for the game. That number was 8. Again, I know it’s only preseason, but a Bears team hasn’t accomplished that feat in the regular season since 2005 (a November game against the Carolina Panthers).

Rookie Tyrique Stevenson also notched seven tackles, and Trevis Gipson (who was initially buried on the depth chart) logged five tackles and three quarterback hits.

The defensive side of the ball is trending upward. When all the starters take the field, this Bears defense has a chance to be a top-10 unit.

Offense: On the Rise

I don’t care how many “air yards” there were. The seven snaps with the starting offensive squad we saw on Saturday justifiably generated an uproar of excitement from fans. Justin Fields connected with DJ Moore on a short screen, followed by a blistering 62-yard run into the endzone. Shortly after, another quick screen pass to Khalil Herbert ended in a 56-yard dash for a touchdown. The offensive line led the way on blocking with both scores, and it’s thrilling to see this side of the ball having fun again – even if for a brief showcase.

Despite an abysmal first sequence, I do have confidence in PJ Walker acting as a serviceable backup for Fields. As Brad Biggs noted, your backup QB doesn’t have to be a guy that will “win the game for you.” He just needs to be a guy that “won’t lose the game for you.” And I feel that’s true with Walker. The rushing depth on this roster is enough to move the ball downfield in dire situations. Rookie Roschon Johnson ran hard and showcased that he can contend for an unquestioned RB2 spot on the roster. The Bears’ offense is (without question) on the rise.

Special Teams: Still Concerning

The Bears cannot head into the 2023 season with a giant question mark looming over special teams. Thankfully, Cairo Santos had a perfect outing. However, a lot of attention and social media backlash was generated when Velus Jones Jr. muffed a punt – a sight painfully reminiscent of multiple incidents of the 2022 season. Eberflus and the coaching staff have since vowed to focus on fundamentals with Velus. That’s not enough.

Despite these efforts, should Jones make the roster, teams will be looking to exploit this weakness — which is reason for significant concern. These are plays that lose games (and it happened multiple times last year). Put Dante Pettis out there, and let’s see if he can positively impact this phase of the game. I think the Velus Jones experiment is nearing its end with the Chicago Bears.