The biggest surprise is how the Bears D gave up the early 14-0 cushion before halftime. This was the last time that most of the personnel that made up the 1985 Bears’ D played together (as Fencik, Marshall and Wilson did not play on the units to follow). and for whatever reason the 1987 unit gave up a surprising number of points, especially after the strike. This could have been due to a move away from “46 defense” principles after Buddy Ryan left.

Anyway, about the game: Green’s punt return TD was amazing. Then the Bears had seemingly endless chances the last 1 1/2 quarters to tie or go ahead, but at least one drive ended with a McMahon INT. Payton at least ended the season strong – giving it his all.