NFL Power Rankings: Bears in middle of the pack entering Week 2

The Chicago Bears’ impressive 17-point comeback victory over the Tennesse Titans in Week 1 helped confirm some of the preseason hype around this team. The defense looked like one of the best units in the NFL and spearheaded what was a pretty incredible showing of resiliency. Last year this time, it was the Bears who were blowing big leads late in games. My, how things have changed.

It’s not all great news, though. Sunday’s win felt all too familiar for Bears fans who are used to watching the defense make up for the offense’s shortcomings. Caleb Williams threw for only 93 yards and none of the “big three” at wide receiver played like a superstar. After studying every player on offense over the last few days, I’m less concerned about Williams’ performance than I was immediately after the game. But there were more plays to be had in the passing game.

Perhaps that’s why the Chicago Bears remain a mystery. They’re a tough team to figure out, which makes their slotting in Pro Football Focus’ Week 2 NFL Power Rankings logical. They check in at No. 16.

“The Bears managed to turn the game around after going down 17-3 at the half without scoring an offensive touchdown,” PFF’s Thomas Valentine wrote, “but it was the defense and special teams that turned up with a touchdown apiece. A Tyrique Stevenson pick-six was the difference, and Cairo Santos nailed all three of his field goals to aid the Bears” struggling offense.’

Perhaps the most shocking takeaway from PFF’s power rankings is that the Chicago Bears are last in the NFC North. The Detroit Lions are No. 6, the Green Bay Packers are No. 12, and the Minnesota Vikings are No. 15.

Look, the Bears don’t deserve any early-season benefit of the doubt, especially not after Williams failed to reach 100 yards passing. But… behind the Vikings? Come on, man.

Chicago can take a BIG jump up next week’s NFL power rankings with a victory over the Houston Texans in Week 2’s Sunday Night Football.