Listen, as a longtime Detroit Lions fan, I know what it’s like to root for a team that just never wins. So, I don’t mean to be harsh or pour salt into any kind of wound. But, the Chicago Bears have just been dismal the past few years. Now, they don’t even have star running back David Montgomery, who was traded to the Lions and is doing great things in Detroit. But, something magical happened Thursday night (Oct. 5). Something very unexpected happened. The Chicago Bears actually won a game.

It’s true. The Bears didn’t just win, either. They clobbered the Washington Commanders, winning 40-20 at FedEx Field. This game actually ended a 14-game losing streak. They hadn’t won a game since a random Monday night game against New England last season. Maybe the Bears can only win high-profile primetime games? Who knows? But, I’m proud of the Bears. They’re not going to be at the top of the NFC North, but this is a step in the right direction.

So, what made the difference? Justin Fields was a big part of this win. Fields threw for three touchdowns in the opening two quarters, with two of those going to DJ Moore and one going to Cole Kmet. So, the Bears had a definitive 27-3 lead going into halftime. Then, the Commanders seemed determined to get back in the game. The team started the second half with a touchdown on their first drive. But, even as they started to perform better, they just couldn’t make up that first half loss. The win gives Chicago a 1-4 record for the season, and now, Washington’s record is 2-3.

A few standout moves during the game were the Bears sacking Commanders quarterback Sam Howell a whopping five times. That’s wild. I’m happy to see the Lions defense sack a quarterback even once or twice in a game, so it shows that the Bears defense was out for blood. Plus, the Bears only had two sacks in their four prior games, so it was a big change for them in the right direction. Two of the sacks game from linebacker T.J. Edwards and cornerback Greg Stroman Jr., who are both shining stars with the Bears right now.

So, what did the Commanders fall? Really, it’s because of their defense. Watching the Commanders this season kind of reminded me of watching my Detroit Lions early last season and the season prior. The offense was okay, but the defense kept losing plays. You really can’t underestimate a solid defense, and the Commanders really have to focus on drafting some guys who can bring their defense up to par.

As a Detroit Lions fan, I like to see the NFC North strong. I mean, I like to see the Lions winning the NFC North, but it’s not as fun if everyone in the division stinks. So, I’m happy to see the Bears finally win a game and win it so definitely. This was a statement game. Let’s see what makes up their next statement.

The next game for the Chicago Bears will be a big NFC North matchup. They play the Minnesota Vikings at 1 p.m. ET on Oct. 15.

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