D’Marco Jackson emerged as a key figure in the Chicago Bears’ defensive strategy during their thrilling 31-28 victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. Taking on the challenging role of middle linebacker, Jackson recorded a team-high 15 tackles, showcasing his ability to lead under pressure. This was only the second time in his three-year career that the 27-year-old had worn the green dot on his helmet. That dot represents his job to call defensive plays.
To get ready for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, Jackson made changes to his everyday life. So he started waking up earlier every morning, practicing calling defensive plays in front of his bathroom mirror. More than just his resolve to memorize the plays made all the difference. The butterflies flooded his stomach as he took on the role of president. Yet Carly, his wife, could see how seriously stressed he was. While dealing with their newly teething 6-month-old daughter, she needed to make changes at home in order for him to get the most rest.
“She knew I was going to be stepping up to a bigger task at work,” said Jackson. “For her to take on that task at home, it ain’t easy. So just the support from her, it was huge for me out there.”
The game perhaps embodied Jackson’s leadership, but it underscored the collective efforts of a cavalcade of other defensive players. From the very beginning of the game, Nahshon Wright made his presence felt. Specifically, he picked off a Mason Rudolph pass on the Steelers’ second offensive play from scrimmage. This interception was Wright’s fifth of the season, placing him in a tie for the NFL’s interception leaderboard alongside Kevin Byard III.
With Tremaine Edmunds falling on injured reserve just prior to the game. This produced an unusual opportunity for someone like Jackson to come in and make a positive impact. Head coach Ben Johnson was optimistic about Edmunds possibly returning later in the season.
Ogbongbemiga had a monster of a game, leading second in tackles with 14. He played 40 defensive snaps — the most he’s ever played in a game since his last season at Oklahoma State five years ago. His pivotal stop on Pittsburgh’s fourth-down tush push attempt in the second quarter contributed to the Bears’ overall defensive success.
The Bears’ defense thrived in its new configuration, recording a critical turnover on downs after stopping Pittsburgh’s offensive push. With the Bears’ defense showing cracks, their offense had a golden opportunity to pick them up. Only 11 plays later, their opponent scored a touchdown themselves, increasing their lead in a tight and contested battle.
“We make a lot of plays, we trust each other. Chemistry is growing and you can tell we don’t get too high, too low. We just stay neutral, which is big, and we know how to finish,” said safety Jaquan Brisker, emphasizing the cohesion within the defense that helped secure the victory.
Jackson’s performance and leadership were crucial components of the Bears’ win, demonstrating his capability when called upon in high-pressure situations. He is growing into his new, expanded role as an on-field leader of the squad. His work ethic, dedication and drive motivate his peers.
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