The Chicago Bears soundly defeated the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday Night Football, much to the surprise of many NFL fans and pundits alike. Many people, myself included, thought that due to the Bears missing Caleb Williams and the uncertainty surrounding Tyson Bagent that they wouldn't have what it takes to overcome the Eagles.
Dillon Thieneman and the Bears' defense had an excellent game, allowing only a single touchdown, while Thieneman recorded his first career interception. Jalen Hurts was sent to the blue tent to be evaluated, presumably for a concussion, but it led to Andy Dalton to play for a set of downs. It only took one throw for Thieneman to make his mark and get his first career interception.
Thieneman saw the play before Dalton threw it
"Honestly, we ran the same play in practice. They had a first over, and I was supposed to hang on it a little bit and then go to the second window for that dig. And I was just sitting right there and he threw it right to me."Dillon Thieneman
It's easy to see a rookie get his first interception and think that he maybe got lucky, or was in the right place at the right time. But I assure you that it wasn't by accident.
Thieneman has been electric for the Bears this season, and his name has been on top of the Bears' stat sheet for every game so far. He recorded six total tackles on Monday, four solo, to contribute to his total of 23 tackles.
The Bears had a panic moment prior to the start of the season when Coby Bryant went down with a hyperextended knee, leaving the secondary primarily in the hands of the rookie. At the time, it was worrisome. Now, with Thieneman already proving he's a leader on the field, the Bears are in good hands.
The Bears defense up against a proven, system-driven offense, and the youngest guy in the room again stepped up. With Kyler Gordon out seemingly indefinitely, the Bears defense looked thin on the ground moving into Monday night. But the Bears defense held strong, holding the Eagles to only seven points.
It's fantastic to win a primetime night game at home, especially when the national audience thinks you're going to lose. But the NFL is a marathon, and the New York Jets are coming to Soldier Field next week. With Bryant out for several months, Bears fans can rest easy knowing the secondary is being guarded by No. 31.
| More Bears on DaWindyCity |
Add us as a preferred source on Google