Chicago Bears: Studs and duds from rejuvenating win vs. Washington

Stud: Linebacker Khalil Mack

After two games in which he played well but didn’t play Khalil Mack well, he came out and did. He was all over Washington’s backfield on Monday night. He recorded two sacks, had four quarterback hurries, and for the first time in his career, forced two fumbles.

That is what we expect from Mack. I know he’s human and expecting him to play like a Hall of Famer in every game is a big task, but he wants to do it on his quest for greatness.

When Mack plays like this the Bears are almost unbeatable. He has the ability to shut down any drive practically by himself. He attracts double teams, helping other players cause damage as well. However, for some reason, Washington left him one-on-one on too many plays. On one play they didn’t even block him. That’s a reason Washington is still winless for the season.

Mack’s play again inspired the Bears defense. While Ha Ha Clinton-Dix started the turnover party on the first drive, it was Mack’s ferocious play that got his teammates riled up. This defense takes its cue from Mack and follows his lead. On this night, Mack took over and his teammates followed.