Chicago Bears: The good, bad, and ugly from Week 8 loss to the 49ers

The good — Justin Fields

This game might not have been Justin Fields‘ best game numbers-wise, but it was his most effective game. He went 19-for-27 (70.3 percent completion rate) for 175 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. His 84.7 passer rating was the second-best of the season.

Fields looked completely different from last week. He was much more decisive when deciding to run or to pass. In fact, he ran for 103 yards, tops for him this season. He added a beautiful touchdown run as well.

Fields led the Chicago Bears offense to four consecutive scoring drives. He and the offense were especially good on third down. After a horrible 2/11 on third downs last week, the Bears were 8/15 against the Niners. They were 6/8 in the first half.

Fields looked nothing like the quarterback who led the offense last week. He used his legs magnificently in the game. As I mentioned, he was decisive when he ran so he got to the holes quickly and picked up big chunks of yards. He averaged over 10 yards per run.

Fields also made some laser throws. He threw a touchdown pass to tight end Jesse James that was a thing of beauty. He went on a bootleg to his left. He then threw across his body into the end zone with a defender on him. Fields placed the ball where only James could catch it and he did.

Fields also showed the athleticism that brought excitement. On one play, it looked like he was caught behind the line of scrimmage. However, he stepped aside then made an incredible spin move to break free and gain yards.

In the fourth quarter, with the Bears down 23-16, they faced a fourth down at San Francisco’s 22. Fields dropped back but the play broke down. The Niners had three chances at stopping Fields for a sack but he avoided them. Then he got into the open field and one block set him free into the end zone. That play electrified the crowd.

While the Bears lost the game, we saw Fields have a very good game. At this point, that is the most important thing for the Bears — to see Fields develop this season. If he keeps playing the way he did against San Francisco, we’ll see that development. We may also see some victories as well.