You could safely say I was more optimistic than most about the Bears' chances this season back in August. I did pick them to win the Super Bowl.

Thing is, I expected the Bears to win more in spite of than because of a defense that I felt would be no better than decent. Six games and five wins into the season, it seems clear that they're considerably better than decent. This unit has a chance to take a place at or near  the list of Lovie Smith's best Chicago defenses, which is remarkable considering how many key pieces remain that were in their primes when the Bears went to the Super Bowl six years ago.

The numbers are impressive. The Bears are now the NFL's top scoring defense, allowing 13.0 points per game. They also lead the league in interceptions (14) and total takeaways (21). When measured in terms of yardage, the Bears still fare well, but to a lesser degree. They're second in rushing defense (71.3 yards per game) but sixth in total yards allowed (299.3) and just 16th in passing defense (228 yards per game).