when we look closely at the statistics, at how the points were being scored and the defensive performance rates, we found quite a few interesting tidbits.
The Defense was playing under duress in 2011. Theres no nice way to say it, but it appears the offense was putting the defense into jeopardy. The D was on the field far more often than they should be and were in poor position when they were out there. Even with those negatives, they were performing at an impressive rate and had big playmakers that made huge contributions over the coursed of the year.
Looking at the statistics, we can project what the defensive productions would be like if the Bears defense were to be given an NFL Average offense to work with. This results in a drastic change in the drive distribution and a resulting significant drop in total points allowed. The points total drops from 333 all the way to 268 total points, which is just under 17 points per game, Number one in the NFL.
Additionally, when we take into account the defensive scoring and their contribution to the offense, the Bears overall statistics shift from the original ranking of a middle-of-the-pack defense all the way to the near-top of the heap; they are an Elite defense, leap-frogging such notables as the Steelers, 49ers, and Texans.
If the Bears offense can improve with the return of Cutler and the additions of Michael Bush and Brandon Marshall, if JMarcus Webb pans out (which really translates to if the offensive line can become a productive and protective unit) and that offense can produce, this defense looks like it is still capable of being not just good, but dominant.