Grading the Bears' 33-14 win over the Patriots
Quarterback: A-
This was easily Justin Fields' best game of the season. Much will be made of the designed runs, but Fields hung in the pocket better and also kept his eyes downfield as he scrambled toward the line of scrimmage. If this continues, it will create a dual threat that will be difficult to stop.
Running backs: A
Khalil Herbert (12 carries, 62 yards and a 25-yard TD reception) continues to make a case for more playing time. He's faster and shiftier than David Montgomery. Having said that, Montgomery produced two impressive, hardworking runs where he churned out 4-6 more yards than Herbert would have mustered. Overall, a great game for both guys.
Receivers: B
The numbers continue to underwhelm, but Darnell Mooney (3 catches, 53 yards), Equanimeous St. Brown (4-48) and Cole Kmet (2-32) were in the right spots at critical times to allow the Bears to continue drives. St. Brown, Kmet and N'Keal Harry also blocked well in the run game.
Offensive line: A+
When Lucas Patrick was carted off the field you figured the offense would grind to a halt. Instead, it was a seamless transition as Sam Mustipher came in and the Bears kept rolling. They finished with 243 rushing yards and a 5.4-yard per carry average.
Defensive line: B-
In the big picture, Robert Quinn and Co. need to get more consistent pressure on quarterbacks, but they did a nice job of keeping running lanes to a minimum against the Patriots. Dominique Robinson tipped a pass that was intercepted by Roquan Smith.
Linebackers: A
A more engaged Roquan Smith is a more productive Roquan Smith. We saw that cleary against New England as he led the way with 12 tackles, notched a sack and picked off a pass.
Secondary: A
Jaquan Brisker's acrobatic, one-handed interception early in the second quarter thwarted a potential scoring drive, allowing the Bears to stay ahead 10-0. Kyler Gordon also had an INT in the fourth quarter, and Pats receivers did next to nothing all night.
Special teams: A
Cairo Santos nailed all 4 field goals, Dante Pettis returned a punt 27 yards, and coverage teams limited New England to a 22.6-yard average on 5 kickoff returns. Pretty much a perfect day here.
Coaching: A
Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy using Justin Fields on designed runs? Defensive coordinator Alan Williams sending Roquan Smith and others on more blitzes? Special teams coach Richard Hightower going back to the sure-handed Dante Pettis for punt returns? The Bears looked like an actual football team, thanks in large part to these adjustments. Impressive adjustments by the entire staff.