The Chicago Bears 46 defense was unique in its own way but was not the sole reason this defensive thrived. An old school way of thinking is that you win in the trenches. Walter Payton was electric as a dual-threat back but was 31 years old. The gas was running out for him.
Payton averaged 4.8 yards per rush attempt. He had 1,500 yards and nine rushing touchdowns. He also caught 49 passes for 483 yards and two touchdowns. He went on to play two more seasons before he retired.
The Bears offensive line consisted of star blockers like Jimbo Covert, Jay Hilgenberg, and rookie Tom Thayer.