Chicago Bears Lose to Los Angeles Rams in Preseason Opener
Bears Fall 20-17 to Rams in Soldier Field Debut
The Chicago Bears lost their preseason opener to the Los Angeles Rams 20-17 on Saturday night at Soldier Field. The Bears scored first on a 3-yard touchdown run by running back David Montgomery, but the Rams answered back with a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Cam Akers. The Rams took the lead in the second quarter on a 25-yard field goal by kicker Matt Gay, and they extended their lead to 13-7 on a 10-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Matthew Stafford to wide receiver Cooper Kupp.
The Bears cut the lead to 13-10 on a 28-yard field goal by kicker Cairo Santos, but the Rams scored again on a 1-yard touchdown run by running back Darrell Henderson Jr. The Bears had a chance to tie the game in the fourth quarter, but Santos missed a 41-yard field goal attempt. The Rams then put the game away with a 37-yard field goal by Gay.
Justin Fields Makes Preseason Debut
Quarterback Justin Fields made his preseason debut for the Bears, completing 7 of 13 passes for 54 yards and one interception. Fields also rushed for 31 yards on six carries. The Bears' offense struggled to move the ball consistently against the Rams' defense, but Fields showed some flashes of his potential.
Cairo Santos Misses Potential Game-Tying Field Goal
Kicker Cairo Santos missed a 41-yard field goal attempt in the fourth quarter that would have tied the game. Santos is entering his second season with the Bears, and he has been a reliable kicker in the past. However, he missed two field goals in the preseason opener, which is a concern.
Bears Defense Struggles Against Rams Offense
The Bears' defense struggled to stop the Rams' offense, particularly in the first half. The Rams scored touchdowns on their first two possessions, and they moved the ball up and down the field with ease. The Bears' defense did improve in the second half, but they still allowed the Rams to score 20 points.
Overall
The Bears' preseason opener was a disappointing one, but it is important to remember that it is just one game. The Bears have a lot of young players, and they are still trying to find their way. The Bears will have another chance to prove themselves next week when they travel to Seattle to take on the Seahawks.