Bears Get 49er Payback in 1985

From the Nov. 16, 2019, Chicago Sun-Times  "The next time, they brought an offense" by Mark Potash.

Thinkin' back to that great '85 Bears team.

After an upset victory over the redskins in the 1984 playoffs the Bears found they weren't ready yet for prime time when they were buried 23-0 by the 49ers in the NFC Championship Game at candlestick Park.

They were particularly offended by a 49er comment:  "Next time, bring an offense."

The next time, they did bring an offense when they faced the 49ers again at Candlestick on October 13, 1985.  They were 5-0 by then, but had something to prove.  Walter Payton rushed for  132 yards and two touchdowns as the Bears gained 372 yards against the defending Super Bowl champions in a 26-10 victory.

"We remembered to pack our offense this time," left tackle Jimbo Covert said.  "Last time they embarrassed us, and they made it known they embarrassed us.  They tried to rub it in.They said some things we didn't really appreciate."

Said Walter Payton:  "They made some remarks that hurt us as a football team.  They said 'Bring your offense next time.'  Well we brought it today."

If I remember correctly, Mike Ditka got a DUI after the plane returned to Chicago and he drove home.

Payback, You Know.  --Cooter