The Chicago Bears kicked off their preseason with a typical Hall of Fame game, showcasing a mix of standout performances and areas needing improvement. The game, which saw the Houston Texans as their opponents, featured both impressive plays and moments that highlighted the preseason's less polished nature.

One player who stole the show was Collin Johnson, the Bears' wide receiver. After initially dropping a pass, Johnson quickly bounced back, demonstrating his agility and utilizing his towering 6'6" frame to make contested catches. Despite a couple of drops, the athletic receiver ended the game with three catches for 56 yards and two touchdowns on six targets.

Backup quarterback Brett Rypien seized the opportunity to shine, impressing fans with his performance. While it was against third and fourth stringers, Rypien commanded the field, completing 11 of 15 passes for 166 yards and three touchdowns. His display showcased the qualities fans hope to see in a capable backup quarterback.

The Bears' running backs also showcased promise in the preseason opener. Last year's heavy reliance on the run game looks set to continue under Shane Waldron's guidance, with Khalil Herbert impressing with an average of 8.8 yards per carry on four attempts. Roschon Johnson and Demetric Felton also held their ground, both averaging over four yards per carry.

While the much-anticipated new kickoff rule promised chaos and excitement, the reality was somewhat underwhelming. The rule resulted in a peculiar-looking play, with returners being tackled near the touchback area. It remains to be seen if this was merely a strategic move by teams keeping their tactics hidden, as NFL teams are notoriously secretive.

On the downside, wide receiver Dante Pettis had a forgettable performance. Despite his past offensive contributions, Pettis' value on the roster hinges on his special teams ability. However, a muffed punt during the game, even considering the rainy conditions, does not bode well for his chances of making the team.

The concerns over backup pass rush were also evident in the preseason opener. The lack of depth in the defensive line, even beyond the starting unit, raised questions about the Bears' ability to generate pressure. With only one sack and no quarterback hits throughout the game, the team will need to address this issue moving forward.

Midwest weather played a role in the game's outcome, as it was called with 3:31 left in the third quarter due to severe weather conditions. While it may have been a relief for some fans, sparing them from staying up until midnight, it also prevented further evaluation of potential talent on the field.

Overall, the Bears' preseason opener showcased both positive and negative aspects. Impressive performances by players like Collin Johnson and Brett Rypien highlighted the team's depth, while issues with the backup pass rush and a lackluster new kickoff rule raised concerns. As the preseason progresses, fans and coaches will be eager to see improvements in these areas before the start of the regular season.