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Ben Johnson’s Bears Earn High Grade in Seattle, but Big-Play Flaw Could Derail Super Bowl Push
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- Ben Johnson’s Bears Earn High Grade in Seattle, but Big-Play Flaw Could Derail Super Bowl Push
The Chicago Bears faced a difficult challenge in Seattle in Week 8 . With the entire NFL world watching, they had to take on the defending champions to keep pace in the NFC North. They proved up to the task, handing the Seahawks a 34-17 loss .
It certainly wasn't a perfect performance. The offense hit a lull after its opening drive, and the defense allowed yet another big play. However, in the grand scheme of things, Ben Johnson 's Bears did more than enough to win. How did Johnson's Bears grade after this dominant victory?
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Offense
Nov 2, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) under center against the Seattle Seahawks during the fourth quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
Though the score suggests near-complete domination, the Bears offense didn't have it easy early. After an excellent opening drive, Chicago had to play the Seahawks' style of game and grind out drives. The Bears wore down the Seattle defense before they started breaking off big plays.
Chicago soon showed that Mike Macdonald 's vaunted defense wasn't invincible. Caleb Williams made plays in structure, extended plays and played as well as anyone could ask in a tough game like this. Chicago kept grinding away on the ground as D'Andre Swift scored three rushing touchdowns.
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Defense
Nov 2, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) is pressured by. Chicago Bears defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons (99) during the second quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
The Bears' defensive front was incredible all night. It generated pressure from start to finish and welcomed the debut of the team's prized midseason trade acquisition. Seattle's offense isn't necessarily elite, but Chicago's ability to go on the road and perform this way was impressive. The only concern remains the big plays.
Entering Week 8, Chicago's defense had allowed an NFL-leading nine plays of 40 or more yards. For the second straight week, the Bears gave up a big play in the final two minutes of the first half that led to a touchdown. The Bears now lead the league with 10 plays of 40 or more yards allowed. Though the front seven has been outstanding, the secondary has a lot of work to do.
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Grade: A
Nov 2, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson on the sidelines against the Seattle Seahawks during the first quarter at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
Chicago made a statement on Monday night. These Bears look like true Super Bowl contenders. The performance wasn't perfect, and Johnson and his staff must address clear problem areas as they get into the meat of their schedule.
For now, this Bears team has put the NFL on notice and shown why general manager Ryan Poles made his big trade. Chicago is ready for a Super Bowl push.
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This story was originally published by Athlon on Nov 3, 2026, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
