Urlacher praises offense its part in Bears' success

Middle linebacker Brian Urlacher disagrees with the perception that the Bears will go only as far in the postseason as the defense carries them.

“We're not just a defensive team,” said Urlacher, who has been an integral part of a unit that is No. 3 in the NFL in points allowed. “Our offense scored 40 points last week. I know special teams scored 7 of them, but it was still mostly offense.

“I think we're a good team all around, special teams, especially, offense and defense. They've been there for us. The last eight, nine weeks they've started playing better.

“Once they figured out the offense, they've been playing well. They've carried us in the Philly game (a 31-26 victory). The Detroit game (a 24-20 victory), we didn't play well (defensively), and they carried us there.

“There have been a few games lately where we've needed them and they came through for us.”

Despite the improvements, the Bears still are No. 30 in total yards, No. 28 in third-down efficiency, No. 31 in interceptions allowed and No. 32 in sacks allowed.

Young life:

Rookie defensive end Corey Wootton's recent pass-rush presence, the all-year production of second-year nickel back D.J. Moore and more recently the play of rookie safety Major Wright all have breathed new life into a star-studded veteran defense.

“That's good,” said five-time Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs. “You don't hear a lot from them, (but) it's good to see them doing things. That's the way rookies are supposed to be, not heard, but seen.

“It's good to see Corey getting sacks, D.J. making plays all year, and Major, even though he took the quarterback out a little. It's good to see that aggressiveness.”

Wright was penalized for unnecessary roughness Monday night, when he led with his helmet while hitting quarterback Joe Webb. He was later fined $10,000 by the league.

Family time:

After a busy Friday, players are completely off today so they can spend Christmas with their families.

“We are about family around here,” coach Lovie Smith said after Friday's practice. “I think it's important to spend as much time with the family, especially around the holidays.

“We're going to double up a little bit with our meetings (Friday) so the guys can wake up with their children in the morning and just enjoy Christmas Day. We have a lot to be thankful for and hopefully we'll have a great weekend.”

Even Smith will enjoy the day off.

“I enjoy every day of my life,” he said. “As far as (watching) tape, no, I have a life, too. I'm going to try to spend a little bit of this family time also.”

Injury update:

Everyone participated in Friday's practice outside at Halas Hall after working inside the Walter Payton Center on Thursday.

Linebacker Pisa Tinoisamoa (knee) and wide receiver Earl Bennett (ankle) were the only players listed on the injury report. Both were “probable” after full practices.