Charles Tillman doesn't think Bears defense has peaked

The Chicago Bears defense has been one of the big stories of the 2012 NFL season, having powered the team to a 6-1 start behind seven defensive touchdowns. Though the defense is currently playing at an incredible level, cornerback Charles Tillman doesn't think its playing at its apex.

"If we continue to practice hard, yeah, why not?" he said. "The sky's the limit. Each week we do want to get better. Our goal isn't to peak right at Week 8. We want to keep peaking each week. We don't want to level off. Once we start to level off, we'll lower our standards.

(via ChicagoBears.com)

In Sunday's 51-20 victory over the Tennessee Titans, the Bears' defense forced six fumbles, recovering four. They also snared one interception, which was returned 46 yards by Brian Urlacher for a touchdown to put Chicago up 26-2 in the first quarter. Through Sunday's game, the defense had scored seven touchdowns while allowing just six.

On the season, Tillman himself has forced seven fumbles, picked two passes, scored two touchdowns and deflected six passes. In his 10 seasons in Chicago, Tillman has forced 35 fumbles, most with his signature strategy of viciously punching the ball out of the receiver's hand.

The Bears' defense will look to continue the trend next Sunday night when it hosts the Houston Texans.