Key Takeaways from Bears Preseason: Ben Johnson Shines in Clock Management, Backup QBs Demonstrate Impressive Poise

CHICAGO — The Chicago Bears faced off against the Miami Dolphins in their preseason opener, resulting in a 24-24 tie. This marked the Bears’ first preseason tie in 52 years, a sign of the unexpected twists that preseason games can bring.

Head coach Ben Johnson emphasized that while these games don’t count in the standings, they are essential for evaluation. Most starters rested, so this matchup was more about testing backups and assessing potential.

Key Observations

Cairo Santos Steps Up
In a standout moment, kicker Cairo Santos nailed a 57-yard field goal just before halftime. It helped showcase his leg strength, which the team has questioned at times. Last season, he set a record for the most field goals of 50 yards or more in a season. He now needs just three more to surpass Robbie Gould’s franchise record. His big kick demonstrated that he’s ready for the season.

Quarterback Competition
Backup quarterbacks Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum impressed, each contributing to the team’s performance. Bagent led a solid 9-minute touchdown drive, finishing with 103 yards and a touchdown pass. Keenum took over in the second half and threw two touchdown passes, demonstrating his experience and poise.

“I like how Bagent stayed calm after a rocky start,” Keenum noted. It’s essential for both quarterbacks as they vie for the backup position behind starter Caleb Williams.

Defensive Power
Defensive end Austin Booker shone brightly, recording three sacks and a strip-sack leading to a touchdown. His performance is a promising sign for the Bears, especially considering he struggled last preseason. This year, he seems more consistent after adding eight pounds of muscle.

“His presence can change the game’s momentum,” Johnson mentioned, highlighting the importance of defensive gameplay.

Ongoing Battles in the Trenches
The competition for starting positions, especially on the offensive line and at receiver, is heating up. Rookie Ozzy Trapilo, for instance, rotated in at left tackle, showing promise. It’s a role crucial for protecting the quarterback and ensuring a cohesive offensive front.

Injury Woes
The game was not without its worries, as five players left with injuries, including linebacker Amen Ogbongbemiga and running back Travis Homer. Monitoring these injuries will be critical as the team prepares for the regular season.

Historical Context

Comparing this year’s team to past Bears squads, it’s notable how much emphasis is placed on depth. In earlier years, teams often stuck with a few key players, but now, the focus on building a strong bench is crucial in the physically demanding NFL.

User Reactions

Social media lit up with fans expressing their excitement over the performances of young players and their hopes for the season ahead. The quick highlight videos of Santos’s kick and Bagent’s touchdown pass garnered thousands of views and retweets, showing that fans are eager for tangible signs of progress.

As the Bears continue their preseason preparations, the evaluations from this game will guide crucial decisions. Each player showcased the potential to contribute meaningfully and improve as the season nears.

For more insights on the Bears and their upcoming season, you can check out the NFL’s official site.

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