GRADING THE BEARS: Defense has solid performance in loss

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QUARTERBACK

B

Jimmy Clausen’s numbers (23 of 39, 181 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, 77.0 rating) were modest, but he avoided turnovers and gave the Bears a chance to win.

RUNNING BACKS

C

At least the Bears tried to use Matt Forte this time. Forte struggled in the run game (19-55, 2.9 ypc). He did have 6 receptions for 40 yards, including an 11-yard TD.

RECEIVERS

C

With 6 drops, they didn’t do Clausen any favors. Marquess Wilson (7-66) and Alshon Jeffery (6-72, TD), were good but not good enough. Martellus Bennett (1-0) struggled.

OFFENSIVE LINE

B

Not a standout performance — the Bears averaged 2.9 ypc — but considering the Bears were starting Michael Ola and Ryan Groy at guard, they avoided disaster against a stout defense.

DEFENSIVE LINE

A-

Gave the Bears a chance. Jared Allen, Jeremiah Ratliff and David Bass (2 QB hurries) had sacks. Stephen Paea and Brandon Dunn had batted passes.

LINEBACKERS

B

Rookie Christian Jones (11 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 sack) missed a couple of tackles but is making more and more good plays. Jon Bostic(6 tackles) had 1 TFL. Shea McClellin had 1 tackle.

DEFENSIVE BACKS

B+

Better performance than the previous meeting. Brock Vereen and Ryan Mundy had INTs. Kyle Fuller had two pass breakups. Tim Jennings (1 TFL) had a key penalty.

SPECIAL TEAMS

A-

Best game all season. Jeremiah Ratliff blocked a FG, Sherrick McManis (2 tackles) recovered a muffed punt. The Lions’ longest return was 16 yards.

COACHING

B-

Bears looked like they were in for a disaster after another tumultuous week at Halas Hall. But all three phases gave them a chance to win. They haven’t quit. They’re just not good enough.

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