Five major takeaways from the Chicago Bears win over the Arizona Cardinals

Special teams were special

On the first play of the game, running back Benny Cunningham had a return of 41 yards to give the offense excellent field position. Unfortunately, the offense was unable to capitalize, but it was still nice to see.

The return game was not finished yet. Not to be outdone, wide receiver Deonte Thompson returned the aforementioned missed field goal 109 yards for a touchdown. It was Devin Hester-esque (just kidding).

In all seriousness, for a team that lacked explosive plays last year, this was a welcome sight to see. Considering the Chicago Bears look to be playing a ground-and-pound sort of ball-control offense with a strong defense behind them, they will be looking for any additional ways to score. If they can occasionally get big returns like that one or even the 41-yard return to help set them up, it can make a difference between a win or a loss.

One play that can not happen was the onside kick that Phil Dawson kicked straight down the center of the field. It was hit right at wide receiver Daniel Braverman, who was unable to pick the ball up, which resulted in a recovery by the Cardinals.

Next: Bears take down Cardinals: Highlights, Analysis and more

Special teams coach Jeff Rodgers could not have been happy after that one, and it will be interesting to see what happens to Braverman at the end of the preseason. For a player that is on the outside looking-in of the wide receiver position battle, he needed to make a name for himself on special teams. That failed recovery did not do him any favors.