In an exciting kickoff to the 2023 NFL preseason, the Chicago Bears faced off against the Miami Dolphins at Soldier Field, resulting in a 24-24 tie. Head coach Ben Johnson emphasized the significance of these preseason games, stating, "Preseason games don’t count, but they matter." This tie marked the Bears' first in 52 years, and the sweltering conditions—with on-field temperatures soaring into the triple digits—did not deter the teams from delivering an engaging performance.
With many starters resting in street clothes, the game served as a platform for evaluation rather than a predictor for the upcoming season opener against the Minnesota Vikings in four weeks. Here are the five key takeaways from the matchup:
The end of the first half presented an opportunity for Coach Johnson to showcase his clock management skills. With 1:57 remaining, he called a timeout after the Dolphins secured a first down. Following their score, backup quarterback Tyson Bagent had 1:40 to orchestrate a two-minute drill. Despite leading his team downfield, Bagent's drive ended in an interception. Fortunately for the Bears, the Dolphins' quick four-and-out allowed Bagent to reclaim the ball at their own 48-yard line with just six seconds left.
Rookie receiver Luther Burden made a pivotal play, catching a pass and managing to get out of bounds with one second remaining. This set up kicker Cairo Santos for a crucial 57-yard field goal, marking a successful use of the clock by Johnson. "That was really well done by the whole group," Johnson noted, highlighting the importance of ending halves on a positive note.
After a shaky start marked by back-to-back punts, Bagent led a remarkable 9:33 touchdown drive—the longest for the Bears since Week 1 of 2021. He completed 13 of 19 passes for 103 yards, including a touchdown to Maurice Alexander, who showcased impressive footwork in the end zone. “It was a helluva catch,” Bagent praised his teammate. Johnson echoed this sentiment, noting Alexander's familiarity with the system from his time in Detroit.
Veteran quarterback Case Keenum took charge in the second half, throwing two touchdown passes and demonstrating his trust in rookie receiver Jahdae Walker. Keenum expressed admiration for Bagent’s ability to remain composed despite the rocky start, stating, "He stayed the course. He wasn’t freaking out." Both quarterbacks provided a glimpse of promising depth behind starter Caleb Williams.
Despite several key offensive players resting, the competition for the starting left tackle position intensified. Braxton Jones started and played most of the first half before being replaced by rookie Ozzy Trapilo. The coaching staff will analyze game film to gauge the performance of both players, particularly as they prepare for their upcoming game against the Buffalo Bills. Keenum expressed confidence in Trapilo’s abilities, stating, "That’s a good feeling as a quarterback, when you have a left tackle you feel really good about."
Kicker Cairo Santos has set high expectations for himself entering the 2025 season, needing three field goals from 50 yards or longer to surpass franchise legend Robbie Gould. Santos demonstrated his strength with a 53-yard field goal against the Dolphins, and Johnson humorously remarked that the kick could have been from even further back. Santos aims to solidify his legacy as one of the league's top kickers.
Defensive end Austin Booker emerged as a standout player, leading the league in preseason sacks with three, including a strip-sack that contributed to a touchdown. His physical development this offseason has translated into improved consistency on the field. Coach Johnson recognized Booker’s impact, stating, "He was a menace," and highlighted the positive momentum his performance brings to the team.
In addition to the game highlights, several players made notable contributions:
Quarterback Caleb Williams completed 70 pre-game throws with key receivers, enhancing their connection. Linebacker Noah Sewell impressed with a forced fumble and a critical tackle for loss. Defensive players Alex Cook, Dominique Robinson, and Zacch Pickens each recorded sacks. Five Bears sustained injuries during the game, adding to the team's challenges moving forward.As the Chicago Bears look ahead to their next challenge, the preseason opener has provided valuable insights into player performances and team dynamics. With the regular season approaching, the coaching staff will continue to evaluate talent and refine strategies.
