Defense Travels: Bears, Montez Sweat Hold Down Jaguars
A Dominant Performance
Despite battling jet lag, sleeping in a new bed, and disruption to his routine, Montez Sweat delivered a stellar performance for the Bears as they defeated the Jaguars 35-16 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Sweat, along with four other teammates, were credited with at least a partial sack in the win.
A Sack-Filled Afternoon
Sweat shared a sack with defensive tackle Byron Cowart, while defensive end DeMarcus Walker, defensive tackle Chris Williams, and linebacker Amen Ogbongbemiga each recorded one. This spread-out sack distribution was a defining feature of the Bears’ dominant defensive performance.
A Bumbling Jaguars Offense
The Jaguars’ offense struggled mightily, mustering just 3.4 yards per carry. The Bears forced two turnovers, with linebacker T.J. Edwards punching out an Evan Engram fumble on the first play of the second half and cornerback Josh Blackwell intercepting Trevor Lawrence’s pass intended for Christian Kirk early in the fourth quarter. A fumble that was initially ruled a turnover was overturned by replay review, but the Bears’ defense remained relentless.
Raise and Rise to the Challenge
Sweat, who was the last to leave the locker room after the game, reflected on the challenges he faced prior to the game. “Even toward the end, it was a little bit off,” he said. “But it didn’t matter.” The Bears’ front seven was able to adapt and make plays, holding the Jaguars to just 16 points.
A Team Effort
“This is what we’re capable of when we’re at our best,” said Swift. “I’ve never been a part of a D-line where the sacks are spread all over across the room.” The Bears’ defense instilled a sense of hunger, encouraging them to make plays and shut down the Jaguars’ offense.
Conclusion
The Bears’ 35-16 victory over the Jaguars demonstrates the importance of a strong defense in football. Despite the challenges posed by travel and routine disruption, the Bears were able to rise to the occasion and deliver a dominant performance.
FAQs
* How did Montez Sweat feel before the game?
Montez Sweat felt “a little bit off” due to jet lag, sleeping in a new bed, and disruption to his routine.
* How many Bears players were credited with at least a partial sack?
Five players – Montez Sweat, Byron Cowart, DeMarcus Walker, Chris Williams, and Amen Ogbongbemiga.
* What was the Jaguars’ average yards per carry?
3.4 yards per carry.
* How many turnovers did the Bears force?
Two.
