The last time the Chicago Bears faced the Minnesota Vikings, the Bears blew a fourth-quarter lead to record their first loss of the season. But a lot has changed since that Week 1 prime-time matchup as Chicago is sitting tied atop the NFC North at 6-3 while Minnesota is in last place at 4-5.
The Bears offense ranks in the top 10 of major metrics, including 26.6 points per game (7th), 379.8 yards per game (3rd), 147.3 rushing yards per game (2nd) and 41.38% third down conversion rate (10). Meanwhile, quarterback Caleb Williams has led four game-winning drives, which is tied for the most in the NFL.
Ahead of Sunday’s divisional showdown, head coach Ben Johnson discussed the evolution of the offense since Week 1, where they’ve finally found their run game, the offensive line has found cohesion and Williams has developed a better understanding of the offense.
“We’ve found out a lot about ourselves over the course of the season,” Johnson said. “So far, we’re a different team than we were Week 1 and so is Minnesota. This will be a completely different matchup as far as I’m concerned. The trust level has grown for a number of players within our coaching staff. I think we really can hang our hat on a number of guys now at this point and feel really good about what we’re going to get on game day.
“Then you look at offense, we’re running the ball a little bit crisper and cleaner. I think the backs have a better feel for what we’re asking to do. The O-line has started to gel. I think (QB) Caleb’s (Williams) got a better understanding of what we’re getting done. Then on defense is – it’s really the same thing. I think the longer you’re in the scheme, the more comfortable you are in terms of what the coaches are asking you to do. I think upfront we’ve done a better job of trying to play physical and shed blocks. That’s got to show up here for the second half of the season.”
A lot of has changed for the Bears and Vikings heading into Sunday’s matchup, where Chicago will look to continue its track record of winning close games. With an 0-2 record in the NFC North, the Bears need to get a win, especially with this upcoming slate of games.
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