The Chicago Bears are surprising the NFL this season. It was a difficult 2024 season, in which the Bears started 3-2, but then lost to the Commanders 18-15 on a Hail Mary pass. Next came a ten-game losing streak which included five one-score losses, which led to the firing of coach Matt Eberflus.
In 2025 the team has developed a new identity under Head Coach Ben Johnson, blending physicality, discipline, and situational efficiency. Despite allowing roughly the same yards on defense as last year, the Bears are winning more games and are focused on finishing strong.
2024 vs. 2025 (After 12 games)
| Category | 2024 | 2025 (12 Games) | NFL Rank (2025) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Offense (YPG) | 362 | 375 | 6th |
| Passing Yards (YPG) | 225 | 220 | 15th |
| Rushing Yards (YPG) | 120 | 359 | 2nd |
| Total Yards Allowed | 5,900 | 5,850 | 18th |
| Turnover Differential | -2 | +3 | 7th |
| Points per Game | 23.5 | 26.0 | 11th |
| Points Allowed per Game | 24.0 | 23.8 | 15th |
Note: Chicago’s rushing attack is a league leader, ranking 2nd in the NFL at 359 YPG, while the passing game sits mid-pack, creating a balanced, unpredictable offense.
Offensive and Defensive Highlights
The Bears’ offense has grown around QB Caleb Williams, who has won more games despite his stats being similar to last year. His current passer rating is 88.2 versus his season ending 87.8 in 2024. However, he has been thriving under Johnson and offensive coordinator Declan Doyle in a dynamic, multi-level attack.
Williams was asked about what he has learned about game management.
“It’s being able to make consistent plays, routine plays. I think that’s what I’ve been trying to focus on for myself is just make the routine plays, make the consistent plays. And then when the time comes, I know that our guys and myself that we’ll step up to the plate and make a comeback or anything like that.”
Tight End Cole Kmet praised the culture:
“Two things you can describe about our team right now: we’re resilient and we’re physical. That’s been instilled by Coach Ben from day one.”
On the defensive side, DL Austin Booker highlighted the team’s depth and focus:
“Even the backups know exactly what’s going on on the field. Staying ready and locked in every day is what allows us to make critical plays when it matters.”
Head Coach Ben Johnson emphasizes one thing above all: winning each game.
“Our job is not done. We haven’t accomplished anything yet. We’re at nine wins, and probably need 11 to make it in the tournament. We have to find a way to be 1-0 each week.”
Why Chicago Is Winning More Despite Similar Defensive Yardage
Defensively, the Bears are allowing about the same yards as 2024—roughly 340–375 per game—but are converting those stops into victories thanks to:
1. Turnover Margin (+3 this season) – Creating scoring opportunities and limiting opponent momentum.
2. Red Zone & Third-Down Defense – Forcing field goals instead of touchdowns.
3. Complementary Offense – Sitting near the top of the league in rushing keeps the defense fresh and controls the clock. The Bears are also 8-18 in fourth-down conversions keeping drives alive.
4. Critical-Play Execution – Fourth-down stops and game-changing defensive plays.
5. Coaching Discipline – Ben Johnson’s focus ensures yards allowed don’t translate into losses.
In short: It’s not just how many yards the defense gives up—it’s when and where they give them up that matters.
The Upcoming Schedule: More Difficult Tests Ahead
The first 12 games have been favorable, but the remaining five will be a tough test. Their opponents are a combined 25-21-1 (including the 3-9 Browns).
| Week | Opponent | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Week 14 | @ Green Bay Packers | NFC North rivalry; tough road environment |
| Week 15 | vs. Cleveland Browns | Physical matchup; strong pass defense |
| Week 16 | vs Green Bay Packers | Second game in three weeks vs rival foe |
| Week 187 | @ San Francisco 49ers | 9-4 in tough NFC West; Brock Purdy back at QB |
| Week 19 | vs. Detroit Lions | Season finale; seeding and playoff implications |
These games will determine Chicago’s playoff positioning and challenge the Bears’ discipline and physicality.
Player Insights
Coach Ben Johnson:
“Really proud of how the group came out and competed. Our players can enjoy a couple days with their loved ones, then it’s back to work. We’ve got five games remaining, and our goal each week is to find a way to get 1-0.”
DL Austin Booker:
“We’ve had the same mindset all season. Win the next game. Next game’s the biggest game. Green Bay is tough, and we always want to beat them.”
TE Cole Kmet:
“Watching the tape from Weeks 1 and 2 to now, we’re a totally different football team offensively. There’s still a lot to improve on, but our potential feels like it’s through the roof.”
Looking Ahead
With five challenging games remaining, the Bears’ playoff fate depends on staying disciplined, executing in key situations, and doing what they have done so far, finding ways to win, and stopping other teams comeback attempts.
“It’s always about improvement and focusing on the next step,” Kmet said. “Ben keeps bringing up the issues, and we address them each day. That’s how you reach your potential.”
Chicago has climbed to the top of the NFC, but one game at a time remains the focus under Johnson’s leadership.
Link to NFL Team Stats
