Chicago Bears · Franchise era 5 of 7
Between great defenses: the Chicago Bears story
Franchise era
1993—2003
Between great defenses
Chicago Bears
The story in one sentence
Chicago searched for offensive stability while gradually assembling the line and linebackers that would power its next contender.
A proud identity waits for another core
Bryan Cox, Curtis Conway and Olin Kreutz gave the era its recognizable core.
Its ending created the conditions for urlacher and lovie's defense.
Timeline
How it unfolded
Before 1993
What came before
Mike Ditka and Buddy Ryan assembled a defense of historic speed and intimidation that dominated the 1985 postseason and remained dangerous for years.
1995-01-01
Wild Card: Chicago Bears vs Minnesota Vikings
1995-01-07
Divisional Round: Chicago Bears vs San Francisco 49ers
2002-01-19
Divisional Round: Philadelphia Eagles vs Chicago Bears
After 2003
What came next
Lovie Smith restored the defense-first formula, and Hester's return brilliance helped the 2006 Bears reach Super Bowl XLI.
The core