Imagine this: The Chicago Bears, once perennial underdogs, storming into the home of the reigning Super Bowl champions and leaving with a decisive victory. It's a scene straight out of a sports fantasy, yet here we are in reality, witnessing this seismic shift unfold before our very eyes. But here's where it gets controversial—what if this isn't just a fluke, but the dawn of a new era? Stick around as we dive into the Bears' latest triumph and unpack why this win feels like more than just another game.
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With a 9-3 record under their belts, the Chicago Bears have just celebrated a hard-fought victory against the defending Super Bowl winners right in their own stadium! It's almost surreal—have we slipped into an alternate dimension where the Bears dominate?
Let's break down the excitement of Ben Johnson's team's standout performance, reflecting on it a full day after the fact.
Bears 24 Hour Rule
- That victory might just be the finest Bears triumph in recent memory. Honestly, I struggle to recall one this impressive since 2018. In past upsets, the team often relied on a mix of clever strategy, lucky bounces, and sheer fortune. But yesterday? It was pure, unadulterated dominance—think of it as 'bullyball,' where the team controls the line of scrimmage, executes big plays on demand, and plays smart, supportive football that complements every position. This felt like a triumph rooted in team culture and smart coaching, not just raw talent.
EPISODE 11 OF THE BN BEARS PODCAST IS OUT: Apple (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bleacher-nation-bears-podcast/id1840242346) | Spotify (https://open.spotify.com/show/4GiIoPzOqgAa3kRIwWmsFD?si=5437f4aa5f404e12) | YouTube (https://youtu.be/6JD9p8l7lvc?si=J2iDd587gc-Ocalr)
- It's absolutely mind-blowing to be discussing a profound culture shift in a road game against the Super Bowl defenders, especially right after Black Friday. Just about two and a half months back, I shared thoughts on how Coach Ben Johnson's challenge was amplified by the toxic atmosphere left after the Bears' embarrassing collapse in Detroit. Yet, Johnson has dove in headfirst, embedding his philosophy into the team spirit, and it's paid off spectacularly. This squad exudes confidence—they know they're capable, and they believe they can take down anyone, anytime. And this is the part most people miss: Exactly one year after firing Matt Eberflus on Black Friday, we're marveling at the vibrant, winning culture Johnson has fostered. For beginners in football fandom, culture in sports means the shared mindset and habits that drive a team's success, like teamwork and resilience, turning a group of individuals into an unstoppable unit.
But here's where it gets controversial: Is this cultural revival genuine, or just a temporary high after a big win? Critics might argue that one victory doesn't erase years of disappointment, while others see it as proof of true leadership. What do you think—can a coach really overhaul a team's soul in just a year?
MORE COVERAGE OF THE BEARS WIN! GAME RECAP (https://www.bleachernation.com/bears/2025/11/28/bears-eagles-postgame/) | INSTANT GRADES (https://www.bleachernation.com/bears/2025/11/28/bears-grades-1128/) | THE NIGHTCAP (https://www.bleachernation.com/bears/2025/11/28/bears-nightcap-112825/)
Let's give props to GM Ryan Poles, who's been instrumental despite not being flawless. Some roster moves bear Johnson's influence too, and the offensive line has transformed from the team's glaring weakness into its powerhouse strength. Chicago's front five—those big guys who protect the quarterback and open holes for runners—completely overwhelmed one of the NFL's top defensive lines. Braving the elements, the wind, and the hostile road environment, the Bears focused on running the football, and their line delivered, paving the way for two rushers to eclipse 100 yards each. Philadelphia knew the Bears were coming with that strategy, but it made no difference. For those new to the game, the offensive line is like the engine of the team's ground attack, blocking defenders to create space, and their dominance here is a textbook example of what great blocking looks like.
Quarterback Caleb Williams wasn't at his sharpest yesterday, but in clutch moments, he stepped up. A few pinpoint throws on third downs (those critical plays to keep drives alive) and that game-sealing deep pass to Cole Kmet showcased his potential. He still needs polish, especially in his footwork—think of it as the foundation of his throws, where inconsistent steps lead to erratic accuracy. Clean that up, and I predict a major improvement. He's progressed significantly this season, but there's room for growth. With another full offseason under Johnson, he could leap forward even more. To put it in perspective, imagine a young chef refining his techniques; Williams is still in the learning phase, but the ingredients for stardom are there.
And this is the part most people miss: At season's start, many predicted D'Andre Swift would be released come offseason, turning running back into a priority need. Now, that's laughably outdated. Swift has been exceptional, and his counterpart, Kyle Monangai, equally stellar. What began as a potential liability—or at best, a mystery—has evolved into a major asset for Johnson's roster. For football newcomers, running backs are the players who carry the ball on the ground, and a dynamic duo like this can dictate the game's pace.
Every squad battles injuries, particularly as the season winds down, but I'm eager to see Defensive Coordinator Dennis Allen helm a fully fit unit. He's skillfully assembled a patchwork defense amid constant setbacks. Yesterday brought back key defensive backs like Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon, and fingers crossed for the return of T.J. Edwards and Tremaine Edmunds. Witnessing Allen's schemes with a healthy squad would be thrilling. To clarify for beginners, the defense's backfield includes players who cover receivers and stop passes, and a healthy group here could mean tighter coverage and fewer big plays allowed.
I'm not a huge fan of Cairo Santos as the Bears' kicker, but he deserves acknowledgment—along with the special teams—for bouncing back after a rocky stretch. He's nailing field goals reliably and adapting to the updated kickoff rules. For playoff aspirations against elite teams, solid special teams are non-negotiable; they can't afford another phase dragging them down. Special teams handle kicks, punts, and returns—think of them as the unsung heroes who can swing momentum with a blocked kick or a big return.
But here's where it gets controversial: Should the Bears stick with Santos, or is it time for a change? Some argue loyalty pays off in clutch moments, while others say mediocrity at kicker can cost games. What's your take—does experience trump consistency in special teams?
I wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving and Black Friday spent with loved ones, and a fantastic remainder of the weekend! I'm genuinely grateful for the Bleacher Nation community, particularly amid such an exhilarating Bears campaign. Bear Down, and let's conquer the Packers!
What are your thoughts on this culture shift? Do you believe the Bears can sustain this momentum, or is it too early to call? And for those in the comments, share your agreements, disagreements, or even wild predictions—let's discuss!
written by
Matt is from the Chicagoland area and has been working in Chicago sports since 2015 with stops at WGN Radio, the Chicago Blackhawks, Stadium, and NBC Sports Chicago prior to landing at Betsperts. Matt covers just about everything for Betsperts and Bleacher Nation but focuses on the NHL and college football.
