Defense Boosts Bears To Division Lead 

Defense Boosts Bears To Division Lead

The Chicago Bears are probably this year's least publicized first-place team. They're doing it with defense -- the Bears rank ninth in the NFL in passing defense, fourth in rushing defense and third in the NFL in total defense.

Head coach Lovie Smith hasn't changed the system too much from what he learned under Monte Kiffin in Tampa Bay. The Bears run a 4-3 under, cover-2 defense that is more about quickness than size. It's about penetration, running, pursuit and gang tackling. They want to attack, get after you and make the offense uncomfortable the entire game.

This type of defense starts with the defensive tackles. DT Tommie Harris plays the three-technique over the guard. He's the Warren Sapp of this defense -- an inside, penetrating, one-gap player. DT Tank Johnson plays a one-technique and shades over the nose. Think Bucs DT Anthony "Booger" McFarland. Both players are quick and explosive.