Ben Johnson didn’t need to sugarcoat anything after Chicago’s season-ending loss. His message about the Bears’ defense echoed exactly what fans were already thinking.

Chicago entered the matchup knowing the challenge would be enormous. The Bears were tasked with slowing down the NFL’s most productive offense, led by Sean McVay, an MVP-caliber Matthew Stafford, explosive wideout Puka Nacua, and a balanced ground game powered by Kyren Williams. On paper, it looked like a mismatch. On the field, it wasn’t.

Despite falling 20–17 in overtime, the Bears’ defense delivered one of its strongest performances of the season. Stafford was held without a passing touchdown, Nacua was limited to 56 receiving yards, and the Rams managed just 111 rushing yards on 31 attempts. Los Angeles scored twice on the ground but averaged only 3.6 yards per carry and finished the game with 340 total yards—well below its usual output.

That production was a far cry from what the Rams had shown all season. They entered the game averaging more than 30 points and over 400 yards per contest, but those numbers vanished in the freezing conditions at Soldier Field. While Johnson had plenty to dissect after the loss, the missed opportunity created by such a strong defensive showing stood out most.

After the game, Johnson made it clear how impressed he was with his defense. He praised Dennis Allen and his staff for crafting an effective game plan against an offense loaded with perimeter threats and a run game capable of wearing opponents down. Johnson emphasized the effort, emotion, and execution his defense showed, noting that their performance kept the Bears competitive from start to finish.

Statistically, the defense backed that up. Chicago forced eight Rams punts, including four three-and-outs. Most notably, Los Angeles failed to move the ball on its opening possession in overtime, giving the Bears a prime chance to end the game themselves.

That opportunity slipped away. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams threw a costly interception while targeting DJ Moore on a crossing route—his third pick of the game. Williams later explained that a breakdown in communication led to the mistake. The Rams capitalized, marching 54 yards over 10 plays before sealing the win with a field goal.

The one glaring absence in an otherwise strong defensive effort was a takeaway. Chicago had opportunities but couldn’t convert, while the Rams’ defense forced three turnovers. That disparity ultimately proved decisive.

Now that the Bears’ season has come to a close, roster and staff changes are inevitable. Still, the defense’s performance against an elite opponent offers a promising glimpse of what this unit can become when fully healthy. That showing alone raises expectations for what Johnson and the Bears could look like heading into Year 2.