The Chicago Bears had a dominant showing against the New York Jets, although the final score of 23-12 might not indicate as much. It was due in large part to Chicago controlling the time of possession, impressive run game and a defense that's emerged as one of the NFL's best over the last three weeks.
After an embarrassing showing in Week 1 against the Carolina Panthers, where they allowed 37 points, the Bears defense has bounced back in a commanding way. They've allowed a total of 22 points in the last three games and have done a good job of limiting some talented offenses.
In Sunday's Week 4 win over the Jets, the defense was well-rested and didn't see the field much -- thanks to Chicago's 42:45 time of possession -- as they were on the field for
just 17:15. After the game, head coach Ben Johnson discussed about how the defense has come together through the first month and how that physicality was on full display against the Jets.
"You could almost call them the no-name defense at this point," Johnson said. "Nobody's super flashy all over the place, yet they're playing really good football as a collective 11. They're unselfish, sound in their assignments, and just want to do right by their buddy. When your eyes are right and alignment is proper, you play good defense. Our physical style of play showed up across all three phases (Sunday)."
The Bears defense has rallied around defensive coordinator Dennis Allen, and they don't even have their full cast assembled. Cornerback Kyler Gordon, who is eligible to return from the PUP next week, and safety Coby Bryant, expected to be out until at least December, are two of the biggest losses. Still, this defense has been able to get it done with some under-the-radar names, which makes you wonder the full potential of this defense when everything's clicking.
Follow Bears Wire on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram
This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Ben Johnson reacts to Bears defense's dominant performance vs. Jets
