The 1985 Chicago Bears are, in my opinion, the best team in NFL history. They dominated the playoffs and finished the regular season with a 15-1 record, demonstrating their unrivalled domination. They won over fans with their fierce defence, vibrant personalities, and a phenomenon known as the “Super Bowl Shuffle.” In Super Bowl XX, they crushed the New England Patriots 46-10, solidifying their legacy. They were famous not only for their skill but also for their swagger and camaraderie. The 1985 Bears made a lasting impression on football history by redefining what a championship team could be, both on Soldier Field and on the national stage.
One of the mainstays of that illustrious defence, Dan Hampton, was a natural force. Known as “Danimal,” the defensive tackle was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his unrelenting chase of quarterbacks. His ability to disrupt offences along the line helped the Bears set a record in 1985 with 72 sacks. Hampton’s leadership and perseverance were crucial; he frequently played through injuries to support the “46” defence. His subdued energy off the pitch counterbalanced the team’s exuberant personalities. His influence is still felt today, as defensive lineman imitate his combination of strength and skill. The Bears’ excellence is demonstrated by Hampton’s legacy.
The Bears’ defensive anchor, Mike Singletary, personified tenacity. His bone-crushing tackles and piercing eyes frightened opponents as a middle linebacker. Singletary, sometimes known as “Samurai Mike,” won two Defensive Player of the Year awards thanks to his preparation and reflexes. He was the driving force behind an incredible defence in 1985 that gave up only 12.4 points per game. He rallied teammates with ferocious speeches, demonstrating his leadership beyond just plays. Linebackers now are inspired by Singletary’s Hall of Fame career, which prioritises intelligence over strength. He built one of the most powerful defences in NFL history, and his contribution to the success of the ’85 Bears cannot be understated.
The Bears’ secondary was anchored by hard-hitting safety Gary Fencik. Fencik’s bone-rattling tackles and Ivy League intelligence earned him two Pro Bowl selections and a reputation as a clutch player that will last a lifetime. He demonstrated his talent for huge plays by recording six interceptions in 1985. Fencik and Dave Duerson made a formidable team that penalised runners and covered receivers. His seasoned presence and leadership helped to stabilise the defence in crucial situations. Although Fencik’s contributions were frequently overlooked, his influence was evident. His perseverance and football acumen were key factors in the Bears’ dominance of passing and rushing offences.
We pay tribute to another stalwart of the ’85 Bears, Steve McMichael, who went away but left behind a lasting legacy. McMichael, also known as “Mongo,” was selected to two Pro Bowls due to his unrelenting disruptive presence at defensive tackle. His ruggedness and exuberant personality perfectly captured the essence of the Bears. Alongside Hampton, he terrorised quarterbacks with eight sacks in 1985. From wrestling ring to Chicago bars, McMichael’s personality won over fans off the pitch. The same bravery he demonstrated on the football pitch was evident in his fight with ALS. Steve, may you rest in peace. Your brothers and supporters will never forget you as a real Bear and champion who will live on in NFL legend.
