Chicago Bears: If…And…But for 2015

Dec 28, 2014; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Chicago Bears defensive end Jared Allen (69) rushes against the Minnesota Vikings in the second quarter at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings win 13-9. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports

If

A once-proud defensive unit can make an about face from the last two seasons.

It has been a rough two years for one of the prouder traditions in the NFL. Just imagine the Chicago Bears not being able to play defense.

But that has been the case as of late. In 2013, the Bears allowed 478 points and 47 offensive touchdowns, quite the contrast from their performance of the previous season (allowed 277 points and 25 offensive touchdowns in ’12). This past season, Chicago surrendered 442 points and 46 offensive touchdowns. The Bears allowed 31-plus points in seven of their final 13 games in 2014.

Enter new coordinator Vic Fangio, who brings the 3-4 to Chicago. Free-agent additions include outside linebacker Pernell McPhee, inside linebacker Mason Foster and strong safety Antrel Rolle. But can youngsters such as Ego Ferguson and Will Sutton succeed on a three-man front? And who will emerge as the starter at right outside linebacker out of converted defensive ends Jared Allen, Willie Young and/or Lamarr Houston?

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