The Chicago Bears defense has a reputation of striking fear into opposing offenses, and rightfully so. They’re one of the league’s most talented, hungry and intimidating units.
But Packers running back Jamaal Williams isn’t afraid of the Bears defense, which probably isn’t the smartest thing to say just days before going up against the NFL’s top unit from a year ago.
“They’re a good defense, but nobody is scared,” Williams said via Packers.com. “Everybody bleeds red. Everybody is mortal. We’re going to play our game. We’re going to play Packers football.”
While you wouldn’t expect a different response from a player preparing to face the formidable group, Williams hasn’t seen a Bears defense quite like this one in his five games against Chicago.
Look no further than last season, where this Bears defense ranked near or at the top of every defensive category of significance, including leading the league in turnovers forced and points allowed, while ranking third in sacks and yards.
The scary thing is that this Bears defense has the potential to be even better in 2019. While Chuck Pagano takes over as defensive coordinator, the Bears return 10 starters, including All-Pros Khalil Mack, Eddie Jackson and Kyle Fuller, as well as Akiem Hicks, Roquan Smith and Eddie Goldman, so the talent is certainly there.
The Packers are certainly giving the Bears plenty of bulletin board material heading into the season opener, with Williams’ comments and Aaron Rodgers’ confidence in beating the Bears at Soldier Field.
We’ll see how this Packers offense fares against one of the league’s most dominant defenses tonight at Soldier Field.
