1985 Chicago Bears season
1985Chicago Bearsseason | |
---|---|
Owner | The McCaskey Family |
General manager | Jerry Vainisi |
Head coach | Mike Ditka |
Home field | Soldier Field |
Results | |
Record | 15–1 |
Division place | 1stNFC Central |
Playoff finish | WonDivisional Playoffs (vs.Giants) 21–0 WonNFC Championship (vs.Rams) 24–0 WonSuper Bowl XX (vs.Patriots) 46–10 |
Pro Bowlers | |
AP All-Pros | |
The1985 seasonwas theChicago Bears' 66th in theNational Football League(NFL) and their fourth underhead coachMike Ditka.
The Bears entered 1985 looking to improve on their 10–6 record from 1984 and advance further than theNFC Championship Game,where they lost to the 15–1San Francisco 49ers.The Bears did improve on that record, and put together one of the greatest seasons in NFL history.
![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7a/1986_Jeno%27s_Pizza_-_11_-_Jim_McMahon.jpg/220px-1986_Jeno%27s_Pizza_-_11_-_Jim_McMahon.jpg)
The Bears won their first twelve games of the season before losing to theMiami DolphinsonMonday Night Football.The loss to the Dolphins would be the only loss the Bears would suffer that season, as they finished with a 15–1 record. This matched the 49ers' mark from the year before and tied the then-record for most wins in a regular season; the record would be reached twice more in 1998 (Minnesota Vikings) and 2004 (Pittsburgh Steelers) before theNew England Patriotsended the2007 NFL seasonwith a 16–0 regular season record.
The Bears' defense was ranked first in the league and only allowed 198 total points (an average of 12.4 points per game).[3]The Bears won the NFC Central Division by seven games over the second-placeGreen Bay Packersand earned the NFC's top seed and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs atSoldier Field.In their two playoff games against theNew York GiantsandLos Angeles Rams,the Bears outscored their opponents 45–0 and became the first team to record back-to-back playoff shutouts.
Then, inSuper Bowl XXat theLouisiana Superdomeagainst theNew England Patriots,the Bears set several more records. First, their 46 points broke the previous record of 38 that had been scored by theLos Angeles RaidersinSuper Bowl XVIIIand again by the 49ers inSuper Bowl XIX.Their 36-point margin of victory also topped the 29-point margin of victory that the Raiders recorded over theWashington Redskinsin Super Bowl XVIII. Both of those records would stand untilSuper Bowl XXIVin New Orleans four years later, when the49ersdefeated theDenver Broncosby 45 points, 55–10.
It was the Bears' first NFL Championship title since1963and their most recent championship.
The 1985 Chicago Bears are one of the few teams to consistently challenge theundefeated 1972 Miami Dolphinsfor the title of the greatest NFL team of all time.[4][5]In 2007, the 1985 Bears were ranked as the second greatest Super Bowl championship team on theNFL Network's documentary seriesAmerica's Game: The Super Bowl Champions,ranking behind only the 1972 Dolphins. They also ranked #2 behind only the Dolphins on the 100 greatest teams of all time presented by the NFL on its 100th anniversary.[6][7]Other sources rate the 1985 Chicago Bears as the greatest NFL team ever.[4][8]
The defense led the league in points allowed (198), yards allowed (4,135) and takeaways (54), a feat that wasn't accomplished again until the2013 Seattle Seahawksdefense.[9]
Offseason
[edit]Transactions
[edit]Signings
[edit]After the draft, the Bears signed 3 undrafted free agents, quarterbackMike TomczakfromOhio State,along with defensive backKen Taylorand receiverKeith OrtegoofOregon StateandMcNeese State,respectively.[10]
Trades
[edit]In a trade with theSan Diego Chargers,the Bears acquired linebackerCliff Thriftand punterMaury Bufordby trading away their 12th round draft picks from 1985 and 1986, respectively.[10]
Contractual issues
[edit]During training camp, seven players, includingMike Singletary,Steve McMichael,Keith Van Horneand rookieWilliam Perry,were either unsigned or holding out due to their contracts. Perry, McMichael and Van Horne eventually reported to training camp. Perry held out until August 5, when he signed a four-year, $1.35 million contract. However, after an unimpressive showing at training camp, defensive coordinatorBuddy Ryantabbed Perry as a "wasted draft-pick".[11]Before the team's season opening game against theTampa Bay Buccaneers,playersAl Harris,Todd BellandRichard Dentrequested to be traded. Dent and the Bears had been attempting to work out a contract extension, as his contract ran through the 1985 season, and paid him $90,000. Bell played for $77,000 the year before, and made the1985 Pro Bowlroster, but asked for $950,000 annually, which would have made him the highest-paid player on the team. Bell and Harris would eventually hold out for the season.[12]
1985 NFL Draft
[edit]1985 Chicago Bears draft | |||||
Round | Pick | Player | Position | College | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 22 | William Perry | Defensive tackle | Clemson | |
2 | 49 | Reggie Phillips | Defensive back | SMU | |
3 | 78 | James Maness | Wide receiver | TCU | |
4 | 105 | Kevin Butler | Kicker | Georgia | |
7 | 190 | Charles Bennett | Defensive end | SW La. | |
8 | 217 | Steve Buxton | Offensive tackle | Indiana State | |
9 | 250 | Thomas Sanders | Running back | Texas A&M | |
10 | 273 | Pat Coryatt | Defensive tackle | Baylor | |
11 | 302 | Jim Morrissey | Linebacker | Michigan State | |
Made roster†Pro Football Hall of Fame*Made at least onePro Bowlduring career |
Undrafted free agents
[edit]Player | Position | College |
---|---|---|
Ken Cruz | Quarterback | Illinois |
Curtis Garrett | Defensive tackle | Illinois State |
Kevin Gray | Defensive back | Eastern Illinois |
John Hill | Defensive back | Duke |
Stan Johnson | Wide receiver | Wisconsin–La Crosse |
Bruce Kallmeyer | Kicker | Kansas |
Don Kindt Jr. | Tight end | Wisconsin–La Crosse |
Mike Tomczak | Quarterback | Ohio State |
Mike Viracola | Punter | Notre Dame |
Staff
[edit]
Front office
Head coaches
Offensive coaches
|
Defensive coaches
Special teams coaches
Strength and conditioning
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Roster
[edit]Quarterbacks
Running backs
Wide receivers Tight ends |
Offensive linemen
Defensive linemen
|
Linebackers
Defensive backs
Special teams |
Reserve lists
Rookies in italics |
Preseason
[edit]Schedule
[edit]Week | Date | Opponent | Result | Record | Venue | Recap |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | August 9 | atSt. Louis Cardinals | L3–10 | 0–1 | Busch Stadium | Recap |
2 | August 17 | Indianapolis Colts | L13–24 | 0–2 | Soldier Field | Recap |
3 | August 26 | atDallas Cowboys | L13–15 | 0–3 | Texas Stadium | Recap |
4 | August 31 | Buffalo Bills | W45–14 | 1–3 | Soldier Field | Recap |
Regular season
[edit]Schedule
[edit]Game summaries
[edit]Regular season
[edit]Week 1: vs. Buccaneers
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Buccaneers | 14 | 14 | 0 | 0 | 28 |
Bears | 7 | 10 | 14 | 7 | 38 |
- Date:September 8
- Game time:1:00 p.m.EDT
- Game weather:90 °F or 32.2 °C, (Thunderstorms)
- Game attendance:57,828
- Referee:Gene Barth
- TV announcers (CBS):Tim Ryan(play-by-play),Johnny Morris(color commentator)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
In the season opener against the Bucs, the Bears defense seemed lost for much of the first half of the game by allowing 28 points, and trailed 28–17 at halftime, but the offense was able to lead the Bears to a victory afterJim McMahonscored 3 touchdowns, withMatt Suheyscoring on another.Leslie Frazierwas also able to give the Bears defense their first highlight of the season by returning aSteve DeBerginterception 29 yards for a touchdown on the second play of the third quarter. The Bears had allowed 212 yards in the first half, but eventually allowed only 95 in the second half.Walter Paytonhad rushed for 120 yards on 17 carries, and McMahon completed 23/34 passes for 274 yards, two touchdowns and one interception.[15]
Week 2: vs. Patriots
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Patriots | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 7 |
Bears | 7 | 3 | 10 | 0 | 20 |
- Date:September 15
- Game time:1:00 p.m.EDT
- Game weather:70 °F or 21.1 °C, (Sunny)
- Game attendance:60,533
- Referee:Tom Dooley
- TV announcers (NBC):Don Criqui(play-by-play),Bob Trumpy(color commentator)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
In the Super Bowl XX preview, the Bears defense was able to find their groove by forcing 4 turnovers on New England, and allowing them to only score a touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Week 3: at Vikings
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bears | 3 | 3 | 24 | 3 | 33 |
Vikings | 3 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 24 |
atHubert H. Humphrey Metrodome,Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Date:September 19 (MNF Special Thursday Edition)
- Game time:8:00 p.m.EDT
- Game weather:Indoors (Dome)
- Game attendance:61,242
- Referee:Dick Jorgensen
- TV announcers (ABC):Frank Gifford(play-by-play),Joe NamathandO. J. Simpson(color commentators)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
The following week againstrivalMinnesota, backup quarterbackSteve Fullerwas called up to take the place ofJim McMahon,who was sidelined with a pinched nerve. With the Bears trailing the Vikings, an anxious McMahon was allowed to return to the game. Without any delay, McMahon famously spearheaded a Bears comeback and victory, with the game being nicknamedThe Viking Miracle.[16]
Week 4: vs. Redskins
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Redskins | 7 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 10 |
Bears | 0 | 31 | 7 | 7 | 45 |
- Date:September 29
- Game time:1:00 p.m.EDT
- Game weather:75 °F (23.9 °C), (Sunny)
- Game attendance:63,708
- Referee:Bob Frederic
- TV announcers (CBS):Tim Ryan(play-by-play),Johnny Morris(color commentator)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
Week 4 saw Chicago trailing 10-0 early to theJoe Theismann-led Washington Redskins. They would score the next forty-five points. One play turned the game, a 99-yard kickoff return by Willie Gault. This cut the lead to 10-7 and importantly, on the play, Washington's punter injured his knee and was sidelined for the remainder of the game. On the next possession, Theismann punted for 1 yard (his only punt in the NFL), and Chicago scored on the very next play to take a 14–10 lead, and they cruised from there.
Week 5: at Buccaneers
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bears | 0 | 3 | 10 | 14 | 27 |
Buccaneers | 0 | 12 | 0 | 7 | 19 |
atTampa Stadium,Tampa, Florida
- Date:October 6
- Game time:1:00 p.m.EDT
- Game weather:73 °F (22.8 °C)
- Game attendance:51,795
- Referee:Pat Haggerty
- TV announcers (CBS):Tim Ryan(play-by-play),Johnny Morris(color commentator)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
Week 6: at 49ers
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bears | 13 | 3 | 0 | 10 | 26 |
49ers | 0 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 10 |
atCandlestick Park,San Francisco, California
- Date:October 13
- Game time:1:00 p.m.
- Game weather:58 °F (14.4 °C)
- Referee:Gordon McCarter
- TV announcers (CBS):Dick Stockton(play by play),Wayne Walker(color commentator)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
Nine months after their humiliating defeat at the hands of the 49ers in the NFC Championship Game, the Bears claimed their revenge by sackingJoe Montanaa then-career high seven times.[17]In return for 49ers coachBill Walsh’s idea of sending linemanGuy McIntyrein as fullback the season before,Mike Ditkasent in rookieWilliam Perry,but as a runner rather than a blocker.[17]Shortly after the game and the flight back to Chicago, Ditka was arrested forDWI.[18]
This was the Bears’ last victory atCandlestick Park.and their last win at San Francisco until 2014 atLevi's Stadium.[19]
Week 7: vs. Packers
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Packers | 7 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 7 |
Bears | 0 | 21 | 0 | 2 | 23 |
- Date:October 21
- Game time:8:00 p.m.
- Game weather:54 °F or 12.2 °C (Cloudy)
- Game attendance:65,095
- Referee:Chuck Heberling
- TV announcers (ABC):Frank Gifford(play-by-play),Joe NamathandO. J. Simpson(color commentators)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
The Bears defeated the Packers onMonday Night Footballin a decisive 23–7 victory, with Perry becoming a folk hero after scoring his first career touchdown on a 1-yard run.[20]
Week 8: vs. Vikings
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Vikings | 0 | 7 | 0 | 2 | 9 |
Bears | 10 | 3 | 7 | 7 | 27 |
- Date:October 27
- Game time:12:00 p.m.
- Game weather:62 °F or 16.7 °C (Sunny)
- Game attendance:63,815
- Referee:Fred Wyant
- TV announcers (CBS):Tim Ryan(play-by-play),Johnny Morris(color commentator)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
Week 9: at Packers
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bears | 0 | 7 | 0 | 9 | 16 |
Packers | 3 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 10 |
atLambeau Field,Green Bay, Wisconsin
- Date:November 3
- Game time:12:00 p.m.
- Game weather:42 °F (5.6 °C)
- Game attendance:55,343
- Referee:Bob McElwee
- TV announcers (CBS):Tim Ryan(play-by-play),Johnny Morris(color commentator)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
The Packers increased tensions in theBears-Packers rivalryafter putting horse manure in the Bears locker room. However, the Bears had the last laugh against their hated rival, winning 16–10, and Perry scored his first career receiving touchdown along the way. Green Bay'sMark LeeandKen Stillsintensified the game after Lee sent Payton over a bench and Stills leveledMatt Suhey.[21]With the Bears in trouble and trailing 10–7 in the 4th quarter, aSteve McMichaelsafety proved to be the key play that turned the game. This cut the lead to 10-9 and the Bears got the ball at midfield following the safetyfree kick.On the ensuing drive,Walter Paytonsealed the victory with a 27-yard touchdown run, putting Chicago up for keeps 16–10.
Week 10: vs. Lions
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lions | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 3 |
Bears | 7 | 7 | 7 | 3 | 24 |
- Date:November 10
- Game time:12:00 p.m.
- Game weather:37 °F or 2.8 °C (Light Rain)
- Game attendance:53,467
- Referee:Tom Dooley
- TV announcers (CBS):Tim Ryan(play-by-play),Johnny Morris(color commentator)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
The Bears defeated the Lions 24–3, whileWalter PaytonandMatt Suheyran for 105 and 102 yards, respectively. As of February 1, 2021, this was the last time the Bears had two 100-yard rushers in a game.[22]
Week 11: at Cowboys
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bears | 7 | 17 | 3 | 17 | 44 |
Cowboys | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
- Date:November 17
- Game time:12:00 p.m.
- Game weather:57 °F (13.9 °C)
- Game attendance:63,855
- Referee:Gene Barth
- TV announcers (CBS):Pat SummerallandJohn Madden
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
In astudentvsteachermatchup, the Bears shut out the Cowboys, handing them the worst loss in franchise history, as well as the first time they were shut out in15 years.The win also gave the Bears the NFC Central division title.[17]Coach Ditka acknowledged feeling crushed when Coach Landry complimented his team after the game.
Week 12: vs. Falcons
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Falcons | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Bears | 0 | 20 | 7 | 9 | 36 |
- Date:November 24
- Game time:12:00 p.m.
- Game weather:27 °F or −2.8 °C (Cloudy)
- Game attendance:61,769
- Referee:Dick Jorgensen
- TV announcers (CBS):Pat SummerallandJohn Madden
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
In the coldest game of the season, the Bears recorded their second straight shutout, and third straight game without giving up a touchdown, against Atlanta, with defensive linemanHenry WaechtersackingBob Hollyin the endzone for a safety.
Week 13: at Dolphins
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bears | 7 | 3 | 14 | 0 | 24 |
Dolphins | 10 | 21 | 7 | 0 | 38 |
- Date:December 2
- Game time:8:00 p.m.
- Game weather:76 °F (24.4 °C)
- Game attendance:75,594
- Referee:Gordon McCarter
- TV announcers (ABC):Frank Gifford(play-by-play),Joe NamathandO. J. Simpson(color commentators)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
The Bears’ hopes for a perfect season were thwarted whenDan Marinoand the Dolphins defeated the McMahon-less Bears onMonday Night Football,38–24, and kept the'72 Dolphinsthe only undefeated regular season in league history (it wouldn't be until 2007 when the2007 New England Patriotswere able to tie this record).[23][24]Miami struck first when Marino hitNat Moorefor a 33-yard touchdown. Bears backupSteve Fullerthen threw a 69-yard pass toWillie Gault,and eventually snuck in for a 1-yard touchdown. After aFuad Reveizfield goal to put Miami up 10–7, Marino hit Moore again that set up aRon Davenporttouchdown to increase the gap by 10 points. After the Bears scored on aKevin Butlerfield goal, Marino hitMark Duperon a crossing pattern for 52 yards. On 3rd and 7, he connected withMark Claytonfor 26 yards down to the Bears 1-yard line. Davenport then ran in, and the Dolphins led 24–10. Later, the Dolphins would increase their lead to 31–10. The Bears had not allowed 31 points in one half since the1972 season opener.The Bears then scored in the third quarter, but any momentum they gained was lost when Butler muffed the ensuing kickoff, which Dolphins rookieAlex Moyerrecovered at the Bears 46.Dan Hamptonthen tipped a Marino pass into the air, but it sailed downfield for 30 yards before landing in the hands of Clayton, who went into the end zone to make it 38–17. Fuller hitKen Margerumfor a 19-yard touchdown, but that would be the last score of the night for the Bears.[25]Mike Singletary said inAmerica's Game: 1985 Chicago Bears:
Well needless to say, there was something different about that game, and there were some things happen that night, that were really strange. I mean balls ricocheting off guys heads and flying into receivers hands. You couldn't buy a break, it was like a nightmare, when something is happening and you’re in the middle of it, and you’re thinking this can't be happening, please let this be a dream.
The day after this loss, the Bears recorded "The Super Bowl Shuffle",aGrammy Award-nominated andBillboard charts#41 charting rap single that delivered over $300,000 to the Chicago Community Trust.[26]
Week 14: vs. Colts
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Colts | 0 | 3 | 0 | 7 | 10 |
Bears | 0 | 3 | 7 | 7 | 17 |
- Date:December 8
- Game time:12:00 p.m.
- Game weather:42 °F or 5.6 °C (Fog)
- Game attendance:59,997
- Referee:Ben Dreith
- TV announcers (NBC):Don Criqui(play-by-play),Bob Trumpy(color commentator)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
The 12-1 Bears hosted the 3-10 Colts and were 20-point favorites in week 14. The Colts marched the ball 72 yards to the Chicago one-yard line on the first drive of the game. But on third and goal, Gary Fencik stuffed a pitch play for a five-yard loss and the Colts' kicker missed a 22-yard-field goal attempt wide left. Both teams struggled to a 3-3 halftime score as Indianapolis actually outgained Chicago in the half. Chicago finally pulled ahead on a 16-yard Walter Payton TD run near the end of the third quarter, and held on for a 17–10 victory.
Week 15: at Jets
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bears | 3 | 7 | 3 | 6 | 19 |
Jets | 3 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 6 |
atGiants Stadium,East Rutherford, New Jersey
- Date:December 14
- Game time:12:30 p.m.
- Game weather:36 °F or 2.2 °C
- Game attendance:74,752
- Referee:Fred Wyant
- TV announcers (CBS):Pat SummerallandJohn Madden
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
Week 16: at Lions
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bears | 3 | 3 | 10 | 21 | 37 |
Lions | 3 | 0 | 7 | 7 | 17 |
atPontiac Silverdome,Pontiac, Michigan
- Date:December 22
- Game time:12:30 p.m.
- Game weather:Indoors (dome)
- Game attendance:74,042
- Referee:Fred Silva
- TV announcers (CBS):Tim Ryan(play-by-play),Johnny Morris(color commentator)
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
Game information |
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First quarter
Second quarter
Third quarter
Fourth quarter
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The game featured a hit on Lions quarterbackJoe Fergusonwhere he was knocked unconscious by Bears linebackerWilber Marshall.[27][28]
Standings
[edit]NFC Central | |||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W | L | T | PCT | DIV | CONF | PF | PA | STK | |
Chicago Bears(1) | 15 | 1 | 0 | .938 | 8–0 | 12–0 | 456 | 198 | W3 |
Green Bay Packers | 8 | 8 | 0 | .500 | 6–2 | 8–4 | 337 | 355 | W2 |
Minnesota Vikings | 7 | 9 | 0 | .438 | 3–5 | 5–9 | 346 | 359 | L2 |
Detroit Lions | 7 | 9 | 0 | .438 | 2–6 | 5–7 | 307 | 366 | L3 |
Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 2 | 14 | 0 | .125 | 1–7 | 2–10 | 294 | 448 | L4 |
Playoffs
[edit]Round | Date | Opponent | Result | Record | Game site | TV |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Divisional Round | January 5, 1986 | New York Giants | W21–0 | 16–1 | Soldier Field | CBS |
NFC Championship | January 12, 1986 | Los Angeles Rams | W24–0 | 17–1 | Soldier Field | CBS |
Super Bowl XX | January 26, 1986 | New England Patriots | W46–10 | 18–1 | Louisiana Superdome | NBC |
Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Giants | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Bears | 7 | 0 | 14 | 0 | 21 |
- Date:January 5
- Game time:12:30 p.m.
- Game weather:18 °F (−7.8 °C), wind 16 miles per hour (26 km/h; 14 kn), wind chill 3 °F or −16.1 °C
- Game attendance:62,076
- Referee:Ben Dreith
- TV announcers (CBS):Pat SummerallandJohn Madden
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
Game information |
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First quarter
Second quarter Third quarter
Fourth quarter |
The Bears' defense dominated the game by allowing only 32 rushing yards and sacked Giants quarterbackPhil Simmsfor 60 yards. Simms was 14/35 for 209 yards while running backJoe Morris,the NFL's regular-season touchdown leader, finished with 32 yards on 12 carries. Chicago's first touchdown resulted on a New York punt attempt from their own 12-yard line. The wind, blowing at 13 mph, caught the ball just enough for punterSean Landetato completely miss it, andShaun Gaylepicked it up and ran 5 yards for a touchdown. Bears quarterbackJim McMahonlater threw two touchdown passes in the third quarter, both toDennis McKinnon.McMahon finished the game with 216 passing yards, while running backWalter Paytonrushed for 94 yards.[29]
Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rams | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Bears | 10 | 0 | 7 | 7 | 24 |
- Date:January 12
- Game time:12:30 p.m.
- Game weather:36 °F (2.2 °C), wind 19 miles per hour (31 km/h; 17 kn), wind chill 26 °F or −3.3 °C
- Game attendance:65,522
- Referee:Jim Tunney
- TV announcers (CBS):Pat SummerallandJohn Madden
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
Game information |
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First quarter
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At the start of the week leading up to the NFC Championship Game, Ditka commented on what he perceived as the NFL's unfavorable treatment of his team by famously stating, "I don't think we come in great favor with certain people. I think it's the same reason people look with disfavor on theRaiders.There are some teams that are fair-haired; there are some teams that are not fair-haired. There are teams named Smith; there are teams named Grabowski. The Rams are a Smith. We're a Grabowski. "[30]
The Bears' defense once again dominated the game by limiting Rams running backEric Dickersonto 46 yards, and holding quarterbackDieter Brockto 10 out of 31 completions for 66 passing yards. Los Angeles only gained 130 yards of total offense. Chicago quarterbackJim McMahonscored on a 16-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, and later threw a 22-yard touchdown pass toWillie Gaultin the third quarter. KickerKevin Butlerkicked a 34-yard field goal in the first period. In the fourth quarter, defensive linemanRichard Dentforced Brock to fumble, and linebackerWilber Marshallpicked up the loose ball and returned it 52 yards for a touchdown.[31]
Super Bowl
[edit]Quarter | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | Total |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bears | 13 | 10 | 21 | 2 | 46 |
Patriots | 3 | 0 | 0 | 7 | 10 |
atLouisiana Superdome,New Orleans, Louisiana
- Date:January 26
- Game time:5:25 p.m.
- Game weather:Indoors (dome)
- Game attendance:73,818
- Referee:Red Cashion
- TV announcers (NBC):Dick Enberg,Merlin Olsen,andBob Griese
- Pro-Football-Reference.com
Game information |
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First quarter
Second quarter
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Fourth quarter
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The Patriots took a quick lead after linebackerLarry McGrewrecovered a fumble fromWalter Paytonat the Chicago 19-yard line on the second play of the game, setting upTony Franklin's 36-yard field goal 1:19 into the first quarter. The Bears struck back with a 7-play, 59-yard drive, featuring a 43-yard pass completion fromJim McMahonto wide receiverWillie Gault,to set up a field goal fromKevin Butler,tying the score 3–3.
After both teams traded punts,Richard Dentand linebackerWilber Marshallshared a sack on Eason, forcing a fumble that linemanDan Hamptonrecovered on the Patriots 13-yard line. Chicago then drove to the 3-yard line, but had to settle for another field goal from Butler after rookie defensive linemanWilliam "Refrigerator" Perrywas tackled for a 1-yard loss while trying to throw his first NFL pass on ahalfback option play.On the Patriots' ensuing drive, Dent forced running backCraig Jamesto fumble, which was recovered by linebackerMike Singletaryat the 13-yard line. Two plays later, Bears fullbackMatt Suheyscored on an 11-yard touchdown run to increase the lead to 13–3.
New England took the ensuing kickoff and ran one play before the first quarter ended, which resulted in positive yardage for the first time in the game (a 3-yard run by James). But after an incomplete pass and a 4-yard loss, they had to send in punterRich Camarilloagain, and receiverKeith Ortegoreturned the ball 12 yards to the 41-yard line. The Bears subsequently drove 59 yards in 10 plays, featuring a 24-yard reception by Suhey, to score on McMahon's 2-yard touchdown run to increase their lead, 20–3. After the ensuing kickoff, New England lost 13 yards in 3 plays and had to punt again, but got the ball back with great field position when defensive backRaymond Claybornrecovered a fumble from Suhey at their own 46-yard line. Patriots coachRaymond Berrythen replaced Eason withSteve Groganto see if he could spark the Patriots offense. But Grogan could only lead them to the 37-yard line and they decided to punt rather than risk a 55-yard field goal attempt. The Bears then marched 72 yards in 11 plays, moving the ball inside the Patriots 10-yard line. New England kept them out of the end zone, but Butler kicked his third field goal on the last play of the half to give Chicago a 23–3 halftime lead.
The Bears had absolutely dominated New England in the first half, holding them to 21 offensive plays (only 4 of which resulted in positive yardage), −19 total offensive yards, 2 pass completions, 1 first down, and 3 points. Meanwhile, Chicago gained 236 yards and scored 23 points themselves.
After the Patriots received the second half opening kickoff, they managed to get one first down, but then had to punt after Grogan was sacked twice. Camarillo, who punted 4 times in the first half, managed to pin the Bears back at their own 4-yard line with a Super Bowl record 62-yard punt. But the Patriots defense still had no ability to stop Chicago's offense. On their very first play, McMahon faked a handoff to Payton, then threw a 60-yard completion to Gault. Eight plays later, McMahon finished the Super Bowl record 96-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run to make the Bears lead 30–3. On New England's second drive of the period, Chicago cornerback Reggie Phillips intercepted a pass from Grogan and returned it 28 yards for a touchdown to increase the lead to 37–3.
On the second play of their ensuing possession, the Patriots turned the ball over again, when receiverCedric Joneslost a fumble after catching a 19-yard pass from Grogan. A few plays later, McMahon's 27-yard completion to receiverDennis Gentrymoved the ball to the 1-yard line, setting up perhaps the most memorable moment of the game. William "the Refrigerator" Perry was brought on to score on offense, as he had done twice in the regular season. His touchdown made the score 44–3.
The Patriots finally scored a touchdown early in the fourth quarter, advancing the ball 76 yards in 12 plays and scoring on an 8-yard pass from Grogan to receiverIrving Fryar.But the Bears defense dominated New England for the rest of the game, forcing another fumble, another interception, and defensive linemanHenry Waechter's sack on Grogan in the end zone for asafetyto make the final score 46–10.
One oddity in the Bears victory was that Payton had a relatively poor performance statistically running the ball and never scored a touchdown in Super Bowl XX, his first and only Super Bowl appearance in a Hall of Fame career.[32]However, if one views the game and watches the Patriots' defense, it is clear that their primary goal was stopping Payton and he frequently had three and four defenders keyed on him on nearly every play. This allowed the rest of the Bears' offense far more opportunities to score than had the Patriots employed a more balanced defense. Ultimately Payton was the Bears' leading rusher during the game, but the Patriots defense held him to only 61 yards on 22 carries, with his longest run being only 7 yards. He was given several opportunities to score near the goal line, but New England stopped him every time before he reached the end zone (such as his 2-yard loss from the New England 3-yard line a few plays before Butler's second field goal, and his 2-yard run from the 4-yard line right before McMahon's first rushing touchdown). Thus, Chicago head coachMike Ditkaopted to go for other plays to counter the Patriots defense. Perry's touchdown and McMahon's rushing touchdowns are widely considered as scoring opportunities that were denied to Payton. Ditka has since gone on record stating that his biggest regret of his career was not creating a scoring opportunity for Payton during the game.
McMahon, who completed 12 out of 20 passes for 256 yards, became the first quarterback in a Super Bowl to score 2 rushing touchdowns. Bears receiverWillie Gaultfinished the game with 129 receiving yards on just 4 receptions, an average of over 32.2 yards per catch. He also returned 4 kickoffs for 49 yards. Suhey had 11 carries for 52 yards and a touchdown, and caught a pass for 24 yards. Singletary tied a Super Bowl record with 2 fumble recoveries.
Eason became the first Super Bowl starting quarterback to fail to complete a pass, going 0 for 6 attempts. The Bears also dominated Patriots starting running back James, holding him to 1 yard on 5 carries, with 1 fumble. Grogan completed 17 out of 30 passes for 177 yards and 1 touchdown, with 2 interceptions. Although FullbackTony Collinswas the Patriots leading rusher, he was limited to just 4 yards on 3 carries, and caught 2 passes for 19 yards. New England receiverStephen Starringreturned 7 kickoffs for 153 yards and caught 2 passes for 39 yards.
Notable moments
[edit]Statistics
[edit]The Bears were first in scoring defense, allowing only 198 points in the regular season with an average of allowing only 12.4 points/game, as well as scoring more points than given up.[17]The 198 points allowed were 65 less than the second-most allowed that year, while the point differential of plus-258 is 110 more than the second-ranked differential and the third-highest in NFL history.[33]They were also second in scoring with 456 points (28.5 points/game), trailing only theChargersthat season. They also led the league in turnover differential at plus-23. The team also had 4 shutouts, two in the regular season over theDallas Cowboys,andAtlanta Falcons,followed by theNew York GiantsandLos Angeles Ramsin the postseason.[34]
The defense
[edit]The Bears' iconic46 defense(named after the jersey number of former Bears' safety,Doug Plank), led by mercurial defensive coordinatorBuddy Ryan,was an "attack from all angles" scheme that resulted in, arguably, one of the greatest overall team defenses in league history. With future Hall of FamerMike Singletary(#50) flanked by the supremely athleticWilber Marshall(#58) andOtis Wilson(#55), the linebacking unit ranked in at #5 of the greatest linebacking corps in NFL history inNFL Top 10.[35]Coupled with a solid backfield anchored by safeties Gary Fencik (FS) and Dave Duerson (22), and a defensive line that included future Hall of Famers Richard Dent (#95), Dan "Danimal" Hampton (#99), and Steve McMichael (#76) along with breakout media superstar rookie, William "The Refrigerator" Perry (#72), the Bears were famous (or infamous) for getting to the quarterback early and often and completely disrupting their opponent's offensive game plans.
As a testament to their toughness, a hit by Marshall where he knockedDetroit LionsquarterbackJoe Fergusonunconscious is still replayed as just one example of the ferocity with which this team played.[36]
The irony of the defense's success was that two of the Bears' top defensive players, linebackerAl Harrisand strong safetyTodd Bell,missed the entire season due to contract disputes.[12][37]
Chicago Honey Bears
[edit]The 1985 season was theteam's cheerleadingsquadChicago Honey Bears' final season with the team, as team ownerVirginia Halas McCaskeyeventually severed all ties with them.[38]
The Super Bowl Shuffle
[edit]After the loss to theMiami Dolphins,most of the team recorded the songThe Super Bowl Shuffle(defensive linemanDan Hamptonrefused to participate due to the song's arrogance), becoming the first sports team to record a rap song (The 49ers recorded a post-disco song the year before[39]). The song's popularity led to it being #41 on theUS Billboard Hot 100,[40]and the song funded $300,000 in profit for the Chicago Community Trust to help needy families in Chicago with clothing, shelter, and food, henceWalter Payton's rap lyric: "now we're not doing this because we're greedy, the Bears are doing it to feed the needy".[41]
2011 White House visit
[edit]In 2011, the Bears made their visit to theWhite House,25 years after their originally intended visit was cancelled due to theSpace ShuttleChallengerdisaster,as former PresidentBarack Obamais a Bears fan.[42]At that time, Obama called them the greatest team ever; however, he called his own words into question when hosting the1972 Dolphins,the only NFL team with aperfect season.Obama noted that the only loss the 1985 Bears had was to the Dolphins.[43]
Honors and achievements
[edit]![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/9/90/ChicagoBearsSuperbowlXXring.jpg/220px-ChicagoBearsSuperbowlXXring.jpg)
Awards
[edit]- NFL Champions(9)
- National Football Conference Championship
- NFC Central Division Championship
- Richard Dent, Super Bowl XX Most Valuable Player
- Mike Ditka, 1985AP NFL Coach of Year
- Mike Ditka, 1985Sporting News NFL Coach of Year
- Mike Ditka, 1985UPI NFL Coach of Year[broken anchor]
- Walter Payton,Bert Bell Award[44]
- Walter Payton,UPI NFC Player of the Year,Offense
- Mike Singletary,National Football League Defensive Player of the Year Award
- Mike Singletary,UPI NFC Player of the Year,Defense
- Mike Singletary,NFC Defensive Player of the Year
Hall of Famers
[edit]- 1988 Enshrinement Mike Ditka: 1961–1966 (player)[45]
- 1993 Enshrinement Walter Payton: 1975–1987[46]
- 1998 Enshrinement Mike Singletary: 1981–1992[47]
- 2002 Enshrinement Dan Hampton: 1979–1990[48]
- 2011 Enshrinement Richard Dent: 1983–1993, 1995[49]
- 2020 Enshrinement Jim Covert: 1983-1991
- 2024 Enshrinement Steve McMichael: 1980-1994[50]
Players that became coaches
[edit]- Mike Singletary,Head Coach of theSan Francisco 49ers(2008–2010);[51]Minnesota Vikings(2011–2013; assistant head coach/linebackers coach)
- Leslie Frazier,Head Coach of theMinnesota Vikings(2010–2013)[52]
- Ron Rivera,Defensive coordinator of the Bears (2004–2006); Head Coach of theCarolina Panthers(2011–2019); Head Coach of theWashington Redskins / Football Team / Commanders(2019–2023)[53]
- Brian Cabral,Interim Head Coach of theColorado Buffaloes(2010)[54]
- Steve McMichael,Head CoachChicago Slaughter,CIFL(2007–2013)[55]
- Dennis Gentry,Running Backs CoachChicago Enforcers,XFL(2001)
- Jeff Fisher,Head Coach of theTennessee Titans(1994–2010);St. Louis/Los Angeles Rams(2012–2016)[56]
Notes
[edit]- a1Kazor also served as the team's special teams coach, defensive assistant, and tight ends coach
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Further reading
[edit]- Hamnik, Al (September 12, 2010)."Super Bowl XX champion Bears still beloved".The Times.Archivedfrom the original on September 15, 2010.RetrievedSeptember 22,2010.
- "Chicago Bears History: 1985 Season".Chicago Bears History Website.Archivedfrom the original on January 4, 2007.RetrievedJanuary 4,2007.
- Total Football: The Official Encyclopedia of the National Football League(ISBN0-06-270174-6)
- The Sporting News Complete Super Bowl Book 1995(ISBN0-89204-523-X)
External links
[edit]![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/fa/Wikiquote-logo.svg/34px-Wikiquote-logo.svg.png)
- 1985 Chicago Bears seasonat ESPN.com
- 1985 Chicago Bears seasonPro Football Reference
- 1985 Chicago Bears Season at www.bearshistory.com