The Falcons were still in contention for the playoffs and the Bears were not, but it was Chicago that looked like a team with a lot to play for today.
The Bears dominated the Falcons from start to finish in the cold and snow in Chicago today, winning 37-17 in a game that was never in doubt.
Justin Fields had a solid effort, completing 20 of 32 passes for 268 yards with a touchdown and no interceptions, as well as running for a touchdown. The Bears have clinched the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft with the Panthers losing today, and the big question will be whether Fields has done enough to establish himself as the franchise's starting quarterback, and convince the Bears' brass to instead trade up to pick the passer, just as they did in 2023 draft.
The Falcons may have been in the running for coach Arthur Smith, and if so, this could have been a tough call for Smith's prospects in Atlanta. Smith's offense looked inept, with Taylor Heinicke throwing three interceptions and Desmond Reeder throwing one. Highly drafted tight end Kyle Pitts was not a factor, and Bijan Robinson was only moderately effective. This Falcons team is not good enough.
Both the Bears and Falcons are now 7-9, but the Bears should feel much better about their futures.
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