Bears vs. Eagles: Reviewing Chicago’s Big Win over Philly

With Green Bay falling to 7-4 against the high-flying Atlanta Falcons, the Chicago Bears had a chance this afternoon to solidify their tenuous control of the NFC North heading into December.  Standing in their way was the Philadelphia Eagles led by potential league MVP Michael Vick.  

In the first quarter, Chicago appeared poised to run away with the game, as they quickly jumped out to a 14-3 lead behind a ferocious pass rush and big plays by Matt Forte and Devin Hester.  Michael Vick and the Eagles, however, would not go down quietly. 

Taking advantage of Chicago’s deep safeties, Vick dinked and dunked the Eagles to within one point of the Bears in the waning minutes of the first half.  But, as the Eagles, approached the Bears end-zone, the much maligned DT Tommie Harris swatted a low Vick pass that tumbled into the hands of Bears safety Chris Harris. 

The Bears capitalized on the interception by manufacturing a rapid attack on the Eagles secondary, as QB Jay Cutler found his fellow Vandy alum, Early Bennett, on a 20-yard strike and a TD pass.  With this momentum changing drive, the Bears captured the initiative and remained firmly in control for the rest of the game.  

MVPs, Duds, and Plays of the Game

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CHICAGO - NOVEMBER 22: Jay Cutler #6 of the Chicago Bears runs for a first down against the Philadelphia Eagles at Soldier Field on November 22, 2009 in Chicago, Illinois. The Eagles defeated the Bears 24-20. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

Offensive MVP:  Not since September 2006 has a Bears quarterback had such a dominate performance as Jay Cutler did this afternoon.  Cutler threw four TDs, no interceptions, and over 200 yards.   This type of performance against a solid defense was why the Bears spent two first round picks for Cutler in 2009.

Offensive Dud:  After dismal performances against the Vikings and Dolphins, RT J’Marcus Webb continued to struggle with speed rushers off the edge.  His poor performance helped produce four Eagles sacks that stalled the Bears offense throughout the second quarter.  That said, Webb’s solid run blocking helped ignite a strong day of production for RB Matt Forte.

Defensive MVP: DE Julius Peppers had a phenomenal performance on Sunday.  On a critical third down in the second quarter, with the Eagles approaching the Bears goal line, Peppers exploded off the line unblocked and corralled the elusive Michael Vick for a sack and a near fumble.  Peppers continued to play with a high level of intensity throughout the rest of the game, helping keep the explosive Eagles offense off balance most of the afternoon. 

Defensive Dud:  Although Chicago gave up 24 points to the Eagles, the Bears defense played well against one of the best offenses in football.  Thus, no player stood out as a defensive dud.

Play of the Game: DT Tommie Harris’ tipped pass that resulted in the Chris Harris interception shifted the momentum back in favor of the Bears and prevented the Eagles from gaining a lead heading into the half.  Chicago proceeded to dominate the Eagles the rest of the game.

Implications

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CHICAGO - NOVEMBER 28: Lance Briggs #55 of the Chicago Bears celebrates a sack by Julius Peppers #90 against the Philadelphia Eagles at Soldier Field on November 28, 2010 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jonathan Daniel/Getty Images)

With this victory, Chicago has established a one and half game lead over their rival Green Bay Packers.  Moreover, Chicago’s four game winning streak has moved them into the number two seed in a tight NFC playoff race.

Beating the Eagles at home was critical, considering the Bears’ schedule becomes increasingly difficult in December.  With games against the Patriots, Vikings, Jets, and Packers ahead, Chicago must compile as many wins as it can to guarantee their first playoff berth since 2006. 

By defeating an elite NFL team, Chicago has also emerged as a legitimate Super Bowl contender for the NFC, which is quite a feat for a team that many analysts had assumed was destined for mediocrity five weeks ago.  Nevertheless, this up-and-coming team still faces some obstacles on its road to greatness, most notably its inconsistent offensive line play. 

Up next for Chicago is the Detroit Lions, who will be seeking revenge for their controversial Week 1 loss at Soldier Field.  Although, once again, Detroit occupies the NFC North’s basement, they remain a dangerous team that is capable of upsetting the Bears, especially at home.

For now, however, Bears fans should be very happy with how this team is developing into a potential Super Bowl contender.