Jeffery Simmons records sack and multiple tackles in Bears' win over Seahawks
Defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons posted a sack, six tackles and two tackles for loss in his debut as the Chicago Bears defeated Seattle 34-17.
Chicago defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons made a notable contribution in his first game with the Bears on Monday night, helping the team defeat the Seattle Seahawks 34-17. Simmons recorded a sack, six tackles, two tackles for loss, a pass defended and a quarterback pressure while playing 48 of 56 defensive snaps.
"His impact was profound," Bears head coach Ben Johnson said on the team’s website.
Simmons’ presence on the line allowed defensive coordinator Dennis Allen to adjust the scheme, reducing the need for additional blitzers. According to Next Gen Stats, Simmons was the only Bears defensive lineman to be involved in double-digit double teams (13) during the game. The increased pressure contributed to teammate Montez Sweat’s performance, which included a sack, three quarterback pressures and a tackle for loss.
"I definitely got my opportunities. I was looking forward to taking advantage of that, and I'm looking forward to doing that the rest of the year," Sweat said.
Statistically, the Bears allowed 3.0 yards per play and a 25.0% success rate when Simmons was on the field, compared with 13.3 yards per play and a 62.5% success rate when he was off the field.
"I kept telling myself, 'It's just football. Go out there and be me. Play by play, just stay in the moment,'" Simmons said after the game.
If Simmons continues to produce similar results, the Bears’ investment in the player is likely to be viewed as justified.