NFL playoffs: the Chicago Bears lost the defensive advantage

Before the Panthers vs. Bears matchup, everyone was talking about the Bears’ powerful defense. They had an amazing run this season allowing under double digits points per game at home this season. With a week off and media attention on them, they lost their defensive edge.

The Bears were definitely rusty and unprepared in this game. They had a week off to tend to their injuries and review the videotape, but the week off also took their sharpness out on the field. They were so successful defensively because they would be able to get to the ball in record time. Yesterday, as Smith ran over them, his ability to get close to the ball was questionable.

The Panthers also did a great job of disrupting the Bears’ defense early on. The Steelers did much the same thing against the Colts by attacking them early. The team’s rust after a bye won’t last forever, so the Panthers knew they had to pass the ball early, make big plays and get the touchdown early.

The Bears’ offense looked great this game and it would be wrong for people to question their offense. It’s also wrong for people to blame their defense for this loss because without them, they wouldn’t have made the playoffs.

If anything, Lovie Smith is to blame for not preparing his team for the speed and intensity of a real game. He also made very few defensive adjustments at halftime to give his team a chance to win. There was also a very poor game plan heading into the game to defend Steve Smith.