Bears News: Bagent says his performance was “embarrassing” in loss to Saints |
NEW ORLEANS, LA - After a promising start to his career a few weeks ago and a decent performance in the first 45 minutes of the game against the New Orleans Saints, things seemed to crash and burn in the final quarter for rookie quarterback Tyson Bagent. While he also had one interception in the first three quarters, he had two interceptions and lost a fumble on the final drive of the game in the fourth quarter.
“Tight coverage, they made a couple really good plays. Hats off to them, but once again, I probably just have to go somewhere else with the ball. So, that’s on me,” Bagent said. “I think I was late to the one to Mooney, and I think I was on time to the one to Tyler, just good coverage, little behind him, which is on me.” This game was back and forth for the first three quarters, with the game being tied at the end of the first, second and third quarters. Chicago actually finished with more plays run, more total yards, and almost double the amount of rushing yards. Bagent also had his first 200-yard passing game. “I thought we did a good job of controlling the game, managing the play clock, especially with the atmosphere that they always tell you about when you come here to play the Saints. I thought we managed that well,” Bagent said. “I thought we were taking advantage of things and then, it really all just (came) down to myself in that last quarter, being able to do a better job of protecting the ball.” There were a total of five turnovers in this game, four of which came from Bagent (the other was a lost fumble by wide receiver DJ Moore). Three of Bagent’s turnovers were in the final quarter. Despite the atrocious turnover margin, the Bears had a chance to win it. After the Saints missed a 47-yard field goal, Chicago got the ball with 2:26 left in the game and only down seven points. However, when Bagent was strip-sacked and the fumble was recovered by New Orleans, that sealed the game. “I think our team played extremely well, which is why it’s so embarrassing just because one-score game, lose the turnover battle by that amount, it’s embarrassing,” Bagent said. “But, it’s part of the game, and I’m just looking forward to building and learning from this experience.” With the Bears having a quick turnaround facing the Carolina Panthers on Thursday (8:15 p.m./Prime Video), it is still unclear if starting quarterback Justin Fields will be playing or if Bagent will get another start. The Panthers are currently 1-8 and are struggling offensively with rookie No. 1 overall pick, Bryce Young. So, regardless of the starting quarterback, this should provide a good chance for Chicago to get back on track and pick up their third victory of the season. Defensively, Carolina is not a strong team either. They do not have many interceptions so far this season and have allowed 14 rushing touchdowns to opponents thus far this season. Bagent did have a solid rushing performance against New Orleans with 70 rushing yards. Fields also has the ability to use his legs. Thus, no matter who is at quarterback, this is a team the Bears should have success against on the ground.
