Forget new offense, new defense may be the key to beating Aaron Rodgers going forward

Before the Bears beat the Packers Thursday in Green Bay on Thanksgiving, much was made about Jay Cutler’s lack of success against their rival. Following the game, it was the rejuvenation of Jay Cutler under offensive coordinator Adam Gase that was credited.

However, the biggest difference may not have been Cutler at all, or even the offense. The biggest difference may be defensive coordinator Vic Fangio.

During his time as a defensive coordinator, Fangio’s only loss to Aaron Rodgers came earlier this season as the Bears were still learning the new defense. Of those games, only twice did the Green Bay offense score more than 21 points.

Rodgers is arguably the best quarterback in the NFL and on a Hall of Fame pace, so completely shutting him down seems unlikely. However, if Fangio’s scheme gives Rodgers more trouble than most, it may be a good sign for the Bears future.