The 85 Bears: We Were The Greatest

Football has witnessed numerous legendary teams throughout its rich history, but none compare to the legendary status of the 1985 Chicago Bears. This formidable team, which dominated the National Football League (NFL) during the 1985 season, earned its place in history as one of the greatest football teams to have ever played. Led by their remarkable defense and a cast of talented players, the 85 Bears left an indelible mark on the game.

The Rise of a Championship Contender

Prior to the historic 1985 season, the Chicago Bears had shown glimpses of promise, but they had yet to fully assemble the pieces of a championship-winning team. Head coach Mike Ditka, however, had a clear vision for the team's success. Through strategic draft selections and shrewd trades, Ditka compiled a roster with unrivaled talent in both the offensive and defensive units.

With the persona of a bruising, hard-hitting team, the Bears embraced their reputation as the "Monsters of the Midway." Their defense was a force to be reckoned with, earning the iconic nickname "The 46 Defense" after their defensive coordinator Buddy Ryan. This legendary defense showcased extraordinary skill, speed, and a level of aggression that overwhelmed opposing teams.

The '85 Bears: We Were the Greatest

by Lindsay Hindman (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7426 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Print length	:	258 pages
Paperback	:	288 pages
Item Weight	:	10.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	5 x 0.65 x 8 inches

FREE

The Unstoppable Defense

Stepping onto the field, the Bears defense struck fear into the hearts of their opponents. The 46 Defense was a revolutionary strategy, meticulously designed to apply immense pressure on the opposing quarterback and disrupt the flow of the offense. This defense utilized a combination of blitzes, stunts, and disguised coverages to confuse and overwhelm their opponents.

Central to the Bears' defensive success was their incredible front seven, led by the feared defensive linemen Richard Dent and Dan Hampton. Their relentless pursuit of quarterbacks resulted in numerous sacks and created opportunities for their teammates to make impactful plays. Linebackers Mike Singletary and Otis Wilson brought devastating hits, remarkable instincts, and superb athleticism to the unit.

In the secondary, the Bears boasted standout defensive backs such as Gary Fencik and Mike Richardson. These players ensured that opposing receivers found themselves closely shadowed, limiting their productivity and creating turnovers. The 85 Bears' defense allowed the fewest points and yards in the league that season, establishing themselves as the dominant force in the NFL.

The Dynamic Offense

While the defense often took center stage, the Bears' offense was equally formidable. Led by the charismatic and talented quarterback Jim McMahon, the offense boasted a balanced attack that struck fear into the hearts of opposing defenses. Running back Walter Payton, known for his agility, speed, and tenacity, was a focal point of the offense, constantly delivering spectacular plays and breaking records.

The Bears' offensive line, often overshadowed by the defense, was a key component in the team's success. This talented unit provided excellent protection for McMahon, ensuring the offense could operate smoothly. Moreover, the offensive line opened up running lanes for Payton while maintaining a punishing presence in the trenches.

In addition to Payton, the Bears' potent offense featured a multitude of talented wide receivers and tight ends. Players like Willie Gault, Dennis McKinnon, and tight end Emery Moorehead provided McMahon with reliable targets, making it challenging for defenses to solely focus on containing Payton. This offensive versatility played a significant role in the team's success throughout the 1985 season.

Super Bowl Glory

The 85 Bears' dominance throughout the regular season continued into the playoffs. They tore through opponents, displaying their superiority both offensively and defensively. In the NFC Championship Game, they shut down the Los Angeles Rams, allowing no points and displaying their unparalleled defensive prowess. This victory led them to Super Bowl XX, where they faced off against the New England Patriots.

The Super Bowl showcased the true magnitude of the Bears' greatness. Their defense stifled the Patriots' offense, recording several interceptions and forcing turnovers. Meanwhile, the offense fired on all cylinders, scoring 46 points en route to a resounding victory. The Bears were crowned Super Bowl champions, solidifying their legacy as one of the greatest teams of all time.

A Lasting Legacy

The 85 Bears left an indelible mark on the sport of football. Their iconic status as one of the greatest teams in NFL history continues to reverberate throughout the league. The team's achievements and dominance serve as a source of inspiration for future generations of football players and fans alike.

The 1985 Chicago Bears will forever be remembered as a remarkable collection of talent, camaraderie, and sheer dominance. Their legendary defense and dynamic offense captivated the hearts of football fans worldwide, cementing their place in history as the greatest team ever assembled.

The '85 Bears: We Were the Greatest

by Lindsay Hindman (Kindle Edition)

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	7426 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Lending	:	Enabled
Print length	:	258 pages
Paperback	:	288 pages
Item Weight	:	10.2 ounces
Dimensions	:	5 x 0.65 x 8 inches

FREE

The ’85 Bears: We Were the Greatest is Coach Mike Ditka’s memoir of a season Chicago will never forget and opponents would rather erase from their minds. Packed with unforgettable behind-the-scenes stories and exhilarating moments including the dominating win over the Patriots in Super Bowl XX, Walter Payton phoning Ditka’s office pretending to be a woman named Yolanda, Jim McMahon’s enduring regard for the healing power of acupuncture, and how a rookie named William Perry turned into a phenomenon known as “The Refrigerator.” The team was filled with a cast of characters who were wildly entertaining off the field, but feared on the field. Their dominance was unstoppable and at their peak they looked like the greatest team in NFL history—and quite possibly were. Taking fans along for an insider’s retelling of this historic season “Da Coach” is packed with stories, recaps and statistics for every regular and postseason game, and top-notch photography that captures the team’s remarkable success, making it a must-have treasure for Bears fans of all ages.