Dominant Bears' D To Face Huge Test Vs. Vick, Eagles
CHICAGO (CBS) -- The Eagles are the second best scoring team in the NFL, while the Bears are tied with the Packers for the stingiest in allowing points. As CBS 2's Megan Mawicke reports, something's gotta give on Sunday.
Julius Peppers has been named the NFC's defensive player of the week for his effort in the Chicago Bears' win over the Miami Dolphins, but the defense as a whole has been dominant this season.
The Bears defense has allowed the fewest points in the league, is ranked third in overall yards allowed and second in takeaways, and opposing quarterbacks have a league-low 66.4 passer rating against them.
The true test for the defense is coming town Sunday when a resurgent Michael Vick and the Philadelphia Eagles visit Soldier Field.
The Bears defense might not be the most exciting or have the most exotic schemes but they are the NFL's best where it matters most – in points allowed. So what's they key?
"Just keeping it basic, playing within the scheme. [Defensive Coordinator Rod] Marinelli has been doing a good job preparing us every week for different schemes. We've been rising to the challenge every week and it's been fun," said Bears defensive lineman Anthony Adams.
Now comes the moment of truth, a chance to prove just how good they are against Vick, who is playing at a mind-boggling level right now. He's the top-rated quarterback in the NFL and – after being turnover-prone earlier in his career – he has not thrown an interception this year and has lost only one fumble.
"We didn't see anything that he can't do. So we are aware of everything he brings to that team. But like coach harps on, we can't really worry about what they do. We just have to worry about what we do, and try to contain him as much as we can," said Bears cornerback Tim Jennings.
"He is very athletic. He's doing really well inside the pocket and outside of the pocket. We just have to stay in front of him and try to get him down," said Adams.
The Bears are playing their best football of the season lately, but to this point they have still had to face doubts about their success.
A win over Vick and the Eagles Sunday and the questions will start to fade away.
