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Bears' defense on auto-pilot without Matt Eberflus

Mike Mulholland/Getty

Bears defensive coordinator Eric Washington has a big job on his hands after head coach Matt Eberflus was fired Friday. But it also could be a big opportunity.

The defense that was Eberflus’ baby still ranks ninth in the NFL in points allowed after 12 games but has been teetering during the six-game losing streak that greased the skids for Eberflus’ firing.

Thursday’s 23-20 loss to the Lions was typical of the recent struggles. The Bears’ defense allowed 405 yards, including 194 rushing yards.