3 Biggest Takeaways From Bears’ Week 2 Loss to the Texans
2. The Defense is Solid Against the Run
The Bears' run defense needed to bounce back against the Texans after a rough Week 1 performance where they let up 140 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries. That looked like it would be a step challenge after Joe Mixon led the NFL with 159 rushing yards in Week 1. Nonetheless, the Bear's defense seemed up for the challenge, only allowing 76 yards on 21 carries.
After an explosive Week 1, Mixon only had 25 yards on nine carries. It should be noted that Mixon exited the game with an ankle injury after a T.J. Edwards tackle. Before the injury, though, the Bears' defense did a nice job of stuffing the middle on Mixon. Mixon's biggest run was a 16-yard jet sweep.
The Bears also gave up a 18-yard gain on an outside motion run to wide receiver Tank Dell.
TANK DELL MOVIN' US DOWN THE FIELD🫡
— Houston Texans (@HoustonTexans) September 16, 2024
Peep that block from Cade Stover
📺: @SNFonNBC pic.twitter.com/RPcncjGiB5
The Texans' longest run between the tackles was a 13-yard gain by Cam Akers after replacing the injured Mixon.
Cam Akers is looking fluid here. What a signing for Houston. #NFL pic.twitter.com/rMeeLkFKRK
— Tanner Phifer (@TannerPhifer) September 16, 2024
Akers ended the day with seven carries for 32 yards, thanks to that long run. Overall, the Bears' defense did a great job of minimizing what looked to be a dangerous Texans running game. Going forward, the Bears need to defend the outside run a bit better.