The Chicago Bears may have walked away from Week 1 the victor, but in the NFL, every new week starts the process anew. With Carolina in the rear-view mirror, the Bears must now set their sights on the Minnesota Vikings. Last season saw the division opponents split their victories, with both franchises losing at home.
The Vikings scored 22 unanswered points in the fourth quarter to overcome the Green Bay Packers for the win. Minnesota was impressive on special teams, with Myles Price bringing an impressive showing to his 2026 debut.
Richard Hightower knows Myles Price can change the game
Richard Hightower has been the Bears special teams coordinator, a post he's held since 2022. He's survived multiple regime changes and coaching structures, yet he remains focused on his special teams, and his preparation shows.
"We got a huge challenge this week with Price. You guys know this dude's a really good returner. Alright, a phenomenal player... And then they got a dynamic returner that can take it to the house at any time. You know he had several big plays last year in both the punt game and the kickoff game, in those return game phases. The challenge is we gotta make sure we keep our leverage, we stay in phase with the ball, and make sure we get to the ball and finish."Richard Hightower
Myles Price was a Vikings weapon in Week 1, posting 179 yards on five kickoff returns with a long of 68 yards.
— Casey McAleer (@OpenLineupMedia) September 19, 2026
Richard Hightower understands exactly how dangerous Price can be with the ball in his hands ⬇️ #DaBears pic.twitter.com/buRKOu0hBl
Hightower's comments reflect that very preparation that could make all the difference in a game. A single return can make a large impact on the game, from the field positioning, to the effect it can have on the moral or momentum of a team.
Price displayed exactly that in Week 1. Price's high point during week 1 came from a 68-yard return that brought the Vikings almost into the red-zone. With Minnesota scoring just six plays later and capitalizing on their advantage, Green Bay's lead had been cut from twelve points to only five.
It's possible that the Vikings still score there, even if it ended up as a touchback or a fair-catch. But Price's effort put the Vikings immediately into a position to succeed, and with a little help from the offense, the stakes of the game suddenly flipped.
That's why it's so important for the Bears to be prepared for Price, and to have a game plan against him headed into Week 2. The Bears defense didn't look like the most reliable unit in the NFL, so they'll need to take advantage of any favor they can get. Hightower clearly understands the danger Price presents, and his unit must ensure Minnesota’s return specialist never gets the opportunity to swing Sunday’s game.
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