Biggs: Have met expectations of the fan base that has been hungry for a turnaround. If you asked 10 fans walking through the gates at training camp in Bourbonnais back in July how they would feel about a 5-3 record and first place in the NFC North, my guess is all 10 would have signed up for that faster than you can say “Ditka.” The Bears have turned the corner toward relevancy, and while the story of this season has yet to be written, they’re in a good position with good health and a favorable schedule when you consider road games against the Giants and 49ers and two games against the Lions. They have a real chance to make the playoffs, and that would make this season a huge success for coach Matt Nagy and general manager Ryan Pace . The Bears signaled they were ready to bust open a window to compete for a championship when they added Khalil Mack . They’re moving in that direction.

Campbell: Are at least moving in the right direction after five wayward seasons. How far will they go in 2018? How long until they join the NFL ’s elite? Will it be a relatively smooth climb from here? We don’t know any of that. What we do know is the Bears have assembled a legitimate defense that gives them a chance to win every game. Offensively, there’s a lot to like about Nagy’s charisma, leadership style and acumen, but it’s too early to judge him as a head coach and play-caller. He’s still growing into the job. Quarterback Mitch Trubisky is battling growing pains as expected. Where all that leaves the Bears on New Year’s Eve is only a guess, but in the big picture the future sure feels brighter than it has in a long time.

Kane: Are relevant again. How often could you say that in the last two seasons? Sure this is coming after victories over the lowly Jets and Bills . But the point is they’re winning games they’re supposed to and are making it fun to watch. The defense stepped up in a big way without Mack, and if he is back to his old self when he returns, it could bring even more excitement. It’s not a given the Bears will maintain the relevance until the New Year, but Chicagoans know even meaningful late-November games shouldn’t be taken for granted.