Da Bears!

Hey Cubs fans! I know following the Cubs this year has had its ups and downs, but that’s what makes being a fan so special—we ride the highs and the lows together. As we keep rooting for our Cubs, I’m excited to add another layer to our newsletter by bringing in coverage of the other major Chicago sports team, the Bears. With football season around the corner, it’s the perfect time to start blending our love for the Cubs with the excitement of Bears football. This is a test run, and I’d love to hear your feedback as we explore this new direction.

Let’s enjoy the best of Chicago sports together!

The Kick Off

The Chicago Bears are heading to Buffalo this Saturday for their second preseason game after a rain-shortened victory in the Hall of Fame Game. The anticipation is high, especially with Caleb Williams set to take his first "real" game snaps. From his quick release to Gervon Dexter's crucial role on defense, there's plenty to keep an eye on. Plus, the debut of "Hard Knocks" featuring the Bears has fans buzzing. Let’s dive into what to watch for in this weekend’s matchup.

Expect to see our old friend Mitch Trubisky for the Bills on Saturday.

Caleb Williams' Debut: A Must-Watch Event

Caleb Williams is set to take his first "real" game snaps, and all eyes will be on his quick release and decision-making under pressure.

This Saturday's game against the Bills marks a significant moment for Bears fans: the debut of Caleb Williams in a true game setting. Known for his lightning-fast release and strong arm,

Williams offers a stark contrast to Justin Fields, who often held onto the ball too long. Having spent time analyzing Williams' college highlights, it's clear his ability to make quick decisions and deliver the ball with velocity is a game-changer. Watching how he handles similar situations in an NFL game will be intriguing. His ability to adapt to the speed of the professional game and execute under pressure could be a glimpse into the future of the Bears' offense. This preseason game provides the perfect stage for Williams to showcase his potential and set the tone for his rookie season.

Gervon Dexter: The Key to a Stout Defense

Gervon Dexter, entering his second season, aims to dominate as the Bears' 3-technique defensive tackle, crucial for stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback.

The Bears' defense hinges on the performance of Gervon Dexter, especially in the 3-technique defensive tackle position. As a second-round pick last season, Dexter had a learning curve but now looks ready to make a significant impact. His role involves penetrating the offensive line and creating chaos in the backfield, which is essential for both stopping the run and pressuring the quarterback. Think of Dexter as the key to a locked-down defense; his effectiveness can open up opportunities for his teammates by drawing extra attention from the offensive line. As Dexter takes the field against the Bills, watch for his speed off the snap and his ability to disrupt plays. A strong performance from him could signal a major leap forward for the Bears' defense this season.

Explain the 3 Technique

Imagine the defensive line as the front door to our house. We want it locked down tight, right? Well, Dexter's job is like being the super-strong deadbolt on that door. He's a defensive tackle, and his specific position is called the "3-technique."

Now, you might be wondering, what's so special about the 3-technique? Well, picture this: Dexter lines up right across from the offensive guard, that big guy next to the center. His job is to burst through the gap between the guard and the tackle, like a wrecking ball, causing chaos in the backfield.

Why is this so important?

• Stops the Run: Dexter's like a brick wall, plugging up the middle and stopping running backs in their tracks.

• Pressures the QB: He's not just about stopping the run. Dexter's quickness and power allow him to bull rush the quarterback, forcing him to make bad throws or even sacking him!

• Frees Up Teammates: When Dexter's causing havoc, the offensive line has to focus on him, which opens up opportunities for our other defenders to make plays.

Dexter's entering his second season, and that's where things get exciting. He's had a year to learn the system, get stronger, and improve his technique. We're expecting him to take a big leap forward this year.

If Dexter can dominate at the 3-technique, it'll have a ripple effect on our entire defense. It'll make it harder for teams to run the ball, put more pressure on quarterbacks, and give our playmakers more chances to shine.

So, keep an eye on #99, Bears fans. Gervon Dexter is ready to unleash the beast, and he could be the key to unlocking our defense's full potential in 2024

Staying Healthy: The Ultimate Goal

While a win is always welcome, keeping the team healthy during the preseason is the top priority for the Bears.

As exciting as preseason games can be, the primary goal is always to avoid injuries. For the Bears, ensuring that key players like Caleb Williams and Gervon Dexter remain healthy is crucial. The preseason is a time for testing strategies and building team chemistry without risking significant injury. While a win against the Bills would be a confidence booster, the real victory comes from exiting the game without any major health setbacks. The focus on health over results is a wise approach, setting the stage for a more robust and competitive regular season.

Hard Knocks: A Fresh Perspective on the Bears

The first episode of Hard Knocks offers a family-friendly look at the Bears, providing a national audience with an intimate view of the franchise.

The debut of Hard Knocks featuring the Bears has captivated fans with its inside look at the team. Unlike previous seasons, this year’s show caters to a family audience, with a noticeable reduction in profanity and a focus on the team’s culture and character. As a family-owned team, the Bears' portrayal on Hard Knocks serves as a great introduction to the franchise for a broader audience. The team's influence on the show's content ensures a positive, authentic representation that fans of all ages can enjoy. This approach not only endears the team to its current fans but also attracts new supporters, showcasing the Bears in the best possible light.