Russell Wilson trending upward after comeback against Bears
Quarterback Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos averted a major disaster with a frantic comeback against the Chicago Bears.
Denver trailed 28-7 midway through the third quarter, but Wilson didn't waver. He threw two TDs in the second half and completed a 48-yard pass to rookie wide receiver Marvin Mims Jr., which set up a 31-yard Wil Lutz field goal that gave Denver the lead with 1:46 left in the fourth quarter.
A Kareem Jackson interception sealed the 31-28 win.
Wilson finished 21-of-28 for 223 yards, three TDs and an above-average passer rating of 133.3. Overall, the performance was imperative for Wilson because he stepped up in a tough spot and led his team to victory, which is something franchise QBs do.
"Well, we showed great grit today," Wilson told CBS Sports after the win. "I thought guys made big plays on offense ... everybody believed and it was a big win for us."
Also, it shows the partnership between Payton and Wilson is starting to work, which could revitalize the 34-year-old's career.
"A team source said the relationship between Payton and Wilson is actually flourishing," wrote The Athletic's Dianna Russini. "Wilson is playing better than last year and making significant improvements. Though there is still so much room to grow, the most significant problems in Denver aren't on that side of the ball."
Even though Denver earned their first victory of the season, it still needs work defensively. Third-year Bears QB Justin Fields had 300 passing yards for the first time in his career, and the unit allowed a staggering 471 total yards.
Nonetheless, if Wilson continues to improve, that can ease the pressure on the other side of the ball, giving it more time to address weaknesses.
The former Pro Bowler trending upward is critical for Denver since the franchise can rely on him and doesn't have to start over at the most important position.
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