The city of Chicago is riding high after a Black Friday performance that turned heads across the NFL. The Bears didn’t just beat the Eagles - they made a statement. With a 24-15 win over Philadelphia, Chicago not only held onto the top spot in the NFC North, but thanks to Carolina’s upset of the Rams, they now sit atop the entire NFC.
Let’s take a closer look at how they got here - and why this version of the Bears looks different from what we’ve seen in years past.
A Rebuilt Wall Up Front
The Bears’ offensive line has gone from a liability to a legitimate strength, and that transformation didn’t happen by accident. General manager Ryan Poles deserves real credit for the way he rebuilt the unit - piece by piece - through trades, free agency, and the draft. It’s a mix of savvy moves and bold decisions that are now paying off in a big way.
Poles went all-in this offseason to make sure rookie quarterback Caleb Williams wouldn’t face the kind of punishment that derails young careers. The Bears traded for veteran guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, signed center Drew Dalman in free agency, and used a second-round pick on Boston College tackle Ozzy Trapilo. Add in right tackle Darnell Wright - already establishing himself as one of the top young linemen in the league - and suddenly, this front five is a force.
Against the Eagles, that group turned in one of the most dominant performances of the season. The Bears racked up 281 rushing yards, with Kyle Monangai and D’Andre Swift both crossing the 100-yard mark - something this franchise hasn’t seen from a pair of backs in the same game in 40 years. That kind of ground-and-pound success doesn’t happen without control in the trenches, and Chicago had it all game long.
Coaching Staff Stepping Up
Of course, talent only gets you so far without the right leadership. Head coach Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Dennis Allen have this team playing with discipline, purpose, and confidence. Johnson’s offensive scheme has brought balance and creativity, while Allen’s defense continues to find ways to disrupt even the most talented opponents.
The Bears didn’t just outplay Philly - they outcoached them. That’s something we haven’t been able to say about Chicago often in recent seasons, but it’s becoming more and more common under this new regime.
Poles’ Vision Coming to Life
This win wasn’t just about one game. It was a culmination of a vision that’s finally taking shape.
Poles took his share of heat during the early stages of his tenure - some of it deserved - but he stuck to his plan. He made bold moves, trusted his evaluations, and built a roster that now looks like it can compete with the best in the league.
For the first time in a long time, Chicago has a football team that looks like it belongs in the playoff conversation - not just as a participant, but as a real threat. The offensive line is clicking, the run game is thriving, and the defense is doing its part. And with a young quarterback still developing, the ceiling is only getting higher.
The Bears are no longer rebuilding. They’re here. And if this trajectory holds, they might be here to stay.