The Chicago Bears suffered a tough 20-17 defeat on the road against the Cleveland Browns. The game began as a defensive battle, with both teams exchanging punts early and often. However, in the second half, there was a momentum shift as Cleveland figured out ways to find the end zone, and Chicago's offense could not get going when it mattered most.
The Browns wound up taking the late lead, and the game ended dramatically as Darnell Mooney dropped a potential game-winning touchdown on a 45-yard Hail Mary attempt. This loss brings Chicago's record to a disappointing 5-9, crushing any slim playoff aspirations.
Offense: Too Conservative & Missed Chances
The Bears had a promising start on offense with an early touchdown by Cole Kmet following an interception by Eddie Jackson. Unfortunately, that was the high point for the group, which struggled throughout the game. As a team, the Bears averaged 3.3 yards per rush, and Justin Fields averaged 4.2 yards per pass while battling a tough Browns defense.
Poor weather influenced the Bears’ game plan. Still, their conservative and ineffective approach led to nine punts or turnovers on ten possessions. It was a masterclass in offensive ineptitude.
Defense: Great Performance with No Support
The Bears defense initially kept the Browns’ offense at bay, allowing just seven points in the first half. They forced three interceptions, including a pick-six by linebacker Tremaine Edmunds. Chicago also constantly pressured quarterback Joe Flacco, sacking him four times. But a critical error in the fourth quarter allowed Amari Cooper to score a 51-yard touchdown, tying the game at 17-17.
With three minutes remaining, this play shouldn’t have decided the game. Still, the Bears offense failed to respond, ultimately leading to their defeat in the end.
Recap
Sunday’s game in Cleveland highlighted a recurring issue for the Bears: the inability to play complementary football. The defense has been formidable, forcing 14 turnovers in the last four weeks and producing a +9 turnover differential. However, during this time, the offense has only averaged 20 points per game. The Bears are 2-2 during this four-game stretch of elite defensive play and fail to translate it into more wins.
Looking Ahead
Next up, the Bears will host the Arizona Cardinals (3-10) at Soldier Field. The game kicks off at 3:25 pm CT.
Injury Update
LG Teven Jenkins left the game in the second quarter due to a concussion.
