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Washington Commanders QB Sam Howell Touts 'Talented' Chicago Bears Defense

Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell was asked about the Chicago Bears defense, and he didn't hold back.

Though the term "bulletin-board material" is often used in college football settings, the principle remains the same for the NFL. See how that worked out for the Cincinnati Bengals in the playoffs last year?

Either way, it's good to never trash talk an opponent before you play them because a big dish of humble pie could be served on the window sill any given Sunday. Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell took the high road when asked about the Chicago Bears' defense Tuesday.

“They're talented. Obviously, the record is what it is, but it's definitely not a team you can take lightly," Howell said. "There's no easy games in the NFL and they have a lot of really good players on their defense and they fly around. They play hard and you can tell they want to win and it's definitely a challenge for us and we definitely have our hands full. 

"They do a lot of good stuff schematically on defense as well. It's definitely a tough defense. Every defense in the NFL is tough to play against, so you definitely got to be ready to go and you got to prepare. We're excited for the challenge.”

Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker (9) chases Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) at Soldier Field Sunday.

Chicago Bears safety Jaquan Brisker (9) chases Denver Broncos quarterback Russell Wilson (3) at Soldier Field Sunday.

The fact of the matter is the Bears' defense has been one of the worst units in the NFL. They've allowed 137 points and 6.1 yards per play, which only trail the Denver Broncos as the worst totals in the league.

Chicago has forced just two turnovers — the third-worst mark in the NFL — while allowing a 121.9 passer rating to opposing quarterbacks.

The Bears' run defense deserves their credit, though. They have allowed just 3.8 yards per rush, which is the seventh-fewest in the league.

However, that's more of a problem for running back Brian Robinson Jr. to try and overcome because Chicago's pass defense is giving up 8.3 net yards gained per pass attempt.

Howell will try and exploit the back end of the Bears' defense Thursday at FedExField at 8:15 p.m. The game will be broadcast on Amazon Prime Video.