Chicago Bears Rushing Game Surges: D’Andre Swift Shines in Win

UPDATE: The Chicago Bears experienced a dramatic resurgence in their rushing game during an electrifying matchup against the Washington Commanders on October 13, 2025. This pivotal win could signify a turning point for the team as they rushed for a season-high 145 yards, with running back D’Andre Swift leading the charge with an impressive 108 yards on just 14 carries.

With the game hanging in the balance, Bears offensive coordinator Ben Johnson relied heavily on his ground attack following a critical turnover by the Commanders. “Putting it away, just putting it away — that was my mindset,” Swift stated post-game. Johnson called five runs for Swift on eight consecutive plays, culminating in a clutch 15-yard run that effectively sealed the victory. Kicker Jake Moody capped off the drive with a 38-yard field goal as time expired.

This performance raises the question: Is this a breakthrough for the Bears’ running game, or simply a one-time occurrence? Swift’s stellar outing comes after a stretch where the team failed to surpass 100 rushing yards in their previous two games and where Swift himself hadn’t eclipsed 63 yards in any game this season.

Key Factors Behind the Bears’ Rushing Success

1. **Fundamental Focus**: The Bears’ offensive line emphasized the need for fundamental improvements. Center Drew Dalman expressed that the team’s prior struggles stemmed from a lack of execution across various aspects of the rushing game. “We need to be 10% better at everything in the run game,” Dalman told the Tribune. Left tackle Theo Benedet echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of pad level and footwork. With Johnson’s focus on power football, the execution finally showed results, highlighted by five runs of over 10 yards.

2. **Lineup Changes**: The Bears’ revamped offensive line, featuring new additions like Dalman and guards Joe Thuney and Jonah Jackson, is beginning to gel. Benedet, who stepped in as left tackle, has impressed Johnson with his seamless integration into the lineup. Johnson noted, “The biggest compliment I could probably give him is I didn’t feel him out there,” underscoring Benedet’s effectiveness in his role.

3. **Running Back Efficiency**: Swift’s performance was not only statistically impressive but also reflected improved efficiency metrics. His 7.7 yards per carry marked a significant turnaround. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Swift achieved an efficiency rating of 2.76, his best since joining the Bears. “When it’s clicking like that, it’s good,” Swift remarked, highlighting the contributions of his offensive line.

What’s Next for the Bears?

The Bears look to build on this momentum as they face upcoming opponents with varying defensive strengths, including the New Orleans Saints and Baltimore Ravens. The opportunity lies ahead for the Bears to establish a strong rushing identity that could alleviate pressure on quarterback Caleb Williams.

With a favorable schedule and a newfound commitment to the ground game, the Chicago Bears are poised for potential success. However, as Dalman noted, consistency will be key: “We’re better, more cohesive now than we were five weeks ago, and we’ll continue to hopefully be better five weeks from now.”

As fans eagerly await the next game, one thing is clear: the Bears’ rushing game is back, and it’s ready to make an impact.