Saints vs. Bears: Live Game Grades and Analysis for Chicago

Alshon Jeffery had a career day going for over 200 receiving yards. It was the defense however who didn't do enough to slow down Drew Brees as the Bears lose their second straight. 

Final Score

Bears:18

Saints:26

Final Analysis

Passing Offense:  After some early hiccups including a fumble, Jay Cutler settled in and had a good game. This could have been a different game if Earl Bennett was able to hold on to the football. 

Passing Defense: They had no answer for Jimmy Graham and Pierre Thomas out the backfield. Drew Brees was able to attempt 35 passes and the Bears only had two sacks. Poor safety play and a lack of pressure stood out. 

Rushing Offense:  The Bears were forced to abandon the run early but Matt Forte struggled early on. He rebounded to have a nice second half but it was too little too late. 

Rushing Defense: 1.9 yards per rush is all Pierre Thomas was able to muster up on 19 carries. The Bears did a nice job stopping the run. 

Special Teams: The Bears miss former special teams coach Dave Toub. They look lost in their coverage and return units. 

Coaching: The defense looked undisciplined and it took way too long for the offense to get going. These all fall on the coaching staff. 

First-Half Analysis

Passing Offense:  A rocky start for Jay Cutler and the offensive line but they really came into their own as the half progressed. They need to keep feeding the ball to Alshon Jeffery if Brandon Marshall continues to be double covered. 

Passing Defense: Whatever the game plan was against Jimmy Graham needs to be scrapped. The safeties have struggled and the defensive line has allowed Drew Brees to get comfortable in the pocket.

Rushing Offense:  Matt Forte has not bee able to get anything going against a defense that is known for giving up a good amount of rushing yards. 

Rushing Defense: The Saints are not a running team so it's no surprise the Bears have been able to shut them down. 

Special Teams: Adam Podlesh has looked sharp after struggling last week. 

Coaching: Early on Marc Trestman seemed to be out-coached by Saints defensive coordinator Rob Ryan. Mel Tucker's defense has no answer for Jimmy Graham and has allowed Drew Brees to throw for almost 200 yards.