The Chicago Bears have a golden opportunity in front of them. After overcoming a 1-2 start to the season, they’ve reached 4-2 after three wins in a row. They are playing some dominant football, led by a great defense and a rising young quarterback in Caleb Williams. Their biggest matchup of the season is now at hand as they visit the 5-2 Washington Commanders. No team has a hotter offense through the first half of the season. Stopping them will be a massive challenge, one that defensive end Montez Sweat is eager to undertake.
Almost a year ago, the Bears stunned the NFL world by sending a 2nd round pick to the Commanders for the Pro Bowl defensive end. Sweat was blindsided by the move, believing he’d done more than enough to earn a place with the organization long-term. However, an ownership change and looming overhaul made him expendable. Sweat hid his emotions well when asked about the upcoming game, but it sounds like he is more than motivated for this one.
“I’m happy just being somewhere that I’m wanted, being at a place where they want me to be and I’ve got a spot. It’s just a good environment. You’re around guys you want to play for. You’re around coaches you want to play for. That makes you want to go hard. That adds a big part to your game…
…It’s a business and I understand what comes with that. I was offended, but I didn’t take it personal.”
Montez Sweat has a chance to wreak havoc.
Washington’s offensive line has played well this season. A big part of their success is the unexpected improvement of right tackle Andrew Wylie, who has allowed only 10 pressures this season. However, his track record says he can be taken advantage of. The key for the Bears is stopping the run and forcing Washington to pass. The Commanders have benefitted from constantly playing with the lead, allowing them to protect their offensive line from constant passing situations. Baltimore exposed this two weeks ago when they built a sizable lead in the second half. Once Washington had to throw, Wylie started struggling.
There is no doubt Montez Sweat will bring his best on Sunday. He won’t be alone, either. Ascending defensive tackle Gervon Dexter figures to create problems on the interior, meaning the Commanders won’t be able to double-team him all the time. Sweat had six pressures against Jacksonville in London. He was terrorizing Trevor Lawrence. Giving him extra motivation against his former team feels like throwing fish guts to a hungry shark.
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