The Chicago Bears have had a difficult week in the wake of their ugly 38-3 loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last Sunday. Khalil Mack was declared out for this weekend due to a foot injury. On top of that, head coach Matt Nagy was diagnosed with COVID. This put his status for the big game on Sunday against the San Francisco 49ers in doubt. Would he be able to get himself cleared before the necessary deadline?

The answer is no. After hoping for two negative tests all week, Nagy failed to get clearance from the Bears medical staff. He has been officially declared out for the game. Special teams coordinator Chris Tabor, the longest-tenured on the staff, will serve as head coach on Sunday. It’s yet another hurdle the Bears must clear in order to get back to .500 and hopefully build some positive momentum moving towards their bye week.

Coach Nagy remains in the NFL’s COVID-19 protocol and will not coach in tomorrow’s game vs. the 49ers. Special teams coordinator Chris Tabor will serve as head coach for the game.https://t.co/EfVAoQHLE3

— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) October 30, 2021

This will be an educational experience for the Bears.

For some time now people have asked whether Matt Nagy serves any sort of purpose on this team. Especially given the state of the offense and how unprepared this team looks of late. If the Bears come out and actually look functional? It may call into question whether the head coach serves any sort of purpose beyond being a figurehead. On the flip side, it’s a great opportunity for Tabor.

He has never gotten any sort of head coaching buzz in his career. The byproduct of being a special teams coordinator. If he can get this team a needed win over San Francisco? That might turn some eyes his way in the future. The goal remains the same though. Win the game and find a way to help Justin Fields keep improving. It would be a nice Halloween treat for Nagy who is trying to keep his job.