Bears maintain No. 18 ranking in NFL despite disappointing Week 1 loss
The Chicago Bears may have faced a tough start to their 2023 season, but they have managed to hold steady at No. 18 in the NFL Power Rankings after a heartbreaking loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
Disappointing Opener
The Bears entered their Week 1 matchup brimming with potential, but they left the field with a bitter taste after falling 27-24 on Monday Night Football. The defeat was particularly stinging as it came against a divisional rival, with Chicago having led the game for significant stretches before faltering in the final moments.
Caleb Williams, the rookie quarterback making his debut, had his share of ups and downs, while offensive coordinator Ben Johnson’s play-calling left much to be desired. The defense, which had shown promise, collapsed spectacularly in the fourth quarter, allowing 21 points and extinguishing any hopes of a victory.
Resilience in Rankings
Amid the disappointment, there is a silver lining for the Bears. Pro Football Focus has opted to keep Chicago in the same position as they started the season, a nod to the potential that still exists within the team.
“The Bears had real control of their Week 1 game against the Vikings until they didn’t,” noted PFF analyst Thomas Valentine. “The offense struggled to put the contest to bed, even if Caleb Williams earned a 77.1 PFF overall grade. The defense allowed 21 points in the fourth quarter in an eventual 27-24 divisional loss.”
Williams’ performance was highlighted by his rushing ability; he led the team with 58 yards on the ground. Had he been able to connect on a few more critical throws during the second half, the outcome might have been different.
The Narrative Moving Forward
Had the Bears emerged victorious, the narrative surrounding the franchise would have shifted dramatically. They would have been heralded as the ‘new’ Bears and the resurgence of the storied Monsters of the Midway would have been in full swing. However, the immediate reaction to their loss has ranged from disappointment to overreaction, particularly concerning the performances of Williams and Johnson.
Yet, it’s important to recognize that Williams did face one of the toughest defenses in the league in his first outing. As the season progresses, his performance may be viewed with more appreciation.
As the Bears shift their focus to a pivotal Week 2 clash against the Detroit Lions, fans and analysts alike will be eager to see if they can turn their fortunes around and begin to reshape the narrative around their season.
