Bears win 47-42 despite special teams struggles, coordinator Hightower takes responsibility
The Chicago Bears overcame significant special teams struggles to secure a dramatic 47-42 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 9.
Why it matters: This game exemplifies the complexities of NFL team dynamics, particularly how special teams play can dramatically affect outcomes, even when a team emerges victorious.
- Despite allowing a 98-yard touchdown return on the opening kickoff and conceding two touchdowns within a rapid 49-second window, the Bears' offense managed to counteract these setbacks with explosive plays.
- Special teams coordinators like Richard Hightower face immense scrutiny when their units falter, impacting the overall perception of the coaching staff.
What’s new: The Bears’ special teams issues were front and center during the contest, highlighting vulnerabilities that could haunt them in future games.
- Kicker Cairo Santos had a field goal blocked and missed a 47-yard attempt, while a potential 52-yard kickoff return by Devin Duvernay was negated due to an offensive holding penalty on wide receiver Jahdae Walker.
- Coach Ben Johnson pointed out deficiencies in kick coverage, indicating systemic problems that require immediate attention.
Yes, but: While the Bears triumphed, the lack of effective special teams performance raises concerns about their consistency moving forward.
- Hightower acknowledged the shortcomings, stating, "I think for sure it was a bad game... it's my unit, I always take responsibility for it."
- This admission reflects a broader issue within the team: reliance on the offense to compensate for inefficiencies elsewhere.
By the numbers: The statistics from the game are telling, illustrating the stark contrast between the Bears' explosive offense and their problematic special teams.
- Chicago managed to score 47 points despite allowing 42, a feat underscored by the offensive power but overshadowed by defensive lapses.
- In previous outings, players like cornerback Josh Blackwell have shown their capacity to make pivotal plays, such as blocking a field goal against the Raiders, emphasizing the inconsistency across different aspects of the game.
What to watch: Moving forward, the Bears must address their special teams performance if they hope to maintain momentum in a competitive NFC North.
- With additional challenges ahead, including matchups against division rivals, rectifying these special teams errors will be crucial for sustained success.
The bottom line: While the Bears celebrate the win, the glaring issues within their special teams unit serve as a reminder that every phase of the game requires attention and improvement if they aim for postseason aspirations.
