Here’s the Quick -n- Dirrty…
- Justin Fields injured his shoulder and will miss 1-4 weeks. Backup QB Tyson Bajent will start vs the Raiders.
- Running back David Montgomery is still in concussion protocol and may not play this week.
- Right guard Nate Davis has a high ankle sprain and likely out 3-4 weeks. O-line struggled vs Vikings.
- Defensive tackle Justin Jones played over rookie Javon Dexter despite Dexter outperforming him. Coaching decision questioned.
- Defensive ends got no pressure on the QB against the Vikings. They need to step up their pass rush against the Raiders and backup QB Brian Hoyer.
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Hey there, fellow Bears Fans!
The injury bug has bitten my Chicago Bears yet again. Our star second-year quarterback, Justin Fields, suffered a shoulder injury during the Vikings game that will sideline him for 1-4 weeks. This is a huge blow to the Bears’ offense and Fields’ development. As a diehard fan, I’m gutted but not surprised given the lack of protection Fields has received.
Backup QB Tyson Bajent will get the start against the Raiders. The undrafted rookie has had limited reps but knows the playbook. His performance will come down to o-line protection. Speaking of the o-line, it continues to struggle mightily. The group gave up five sacks against the Vikings and frequently let defenders run free at Fields.
Starting right guard Nate Davis will likely miss 3-4 weeks with a high ankle sprain. This further deteriorates an already porous line. Left tackle Braxton Jones was also benched, so the o-line remains a work in progress six games into the season. Protection must improve for Bajent to have a chance versus the Raiders.
Another concerning development is running back David Montgomery’s lingering concussion. One of the few bright spots on offense, Montgomery’s status is still unclear heading into Week 7. His physical running style will be missed if he can’t suit up. The Bears offense desperately needs playmakers, so losing Monty deals a big blow.
Let’s shift to the defense, which has kept games close but faltered late. The d-line failed to generate any pass rush against Minnesota. Veteran defensive ends Robert Quinn and Al-Quadin Muhammad must win their matchups and get pressure on Raiders backup QB Brian Hoyer. Disrupting Hoyer’s timing is crucial for the Bears’ upset chances.
While the defensive line has struggled, I’ve liked what I’ve seen from young tackles Justin Jones and Javon Dexter. However, the coaching staff continues playing Jones over Dexter, despite Dexter outperforming him. This questionable rotation must be addressed. Increased snaps for Dexter could bolster the Bears’ run defense.
Overall, coordinator Alan Williams has done a solid job with this young, developing unit. Rookies CB Kyler Gordon and S Jaquan Brisker have impressed and provide hope for the future. But the Bears still hemorrhage yards and points late in games. Finishing strong for four quarters remains an issue.
As a loyal fan, I’m tired of seeing the same old problems week after week – an overmatched o-line, no pass rush, and blown late leads. Coach Matt Eberflus preaches hustle and heart, but the sloppy fundamentals and execution suggest otherwise. This team lacks discipline and attention to detail. That falls on the coaches.
Don’t get me wrong – I love Coach Flus’s energy and culture building. But his game management, in-game adjustments, and coordinator hires leave something to be desired. As Bears fans know all too well, we’ve seen far too many promising first-year coaches flame out in Chicago. I’m not ready to make that judgment yet, but the sloppy play needs to be cleaned up.
As for GM Ryan Poles, the jury is still out on his first draft class. Gordon, Brisker and Braxton Jones have shown flashes but remain unproven. The Bears need impact players, yet Poles failed to adequately address glaring weaknesses like o-line and d-line. His “wait until 2024” approach doesn’t inspire confidence. Winning franchises build through the draft.
I’m trying to stay patient, but this Bears regime isn’t making it easy. If the sloppy play and baffling personnel decisions continue, my patience will quickly wear thin. That said, Fields is the future and his health is priority number one. Rushing him back would jeopardize the long-term vision.
The bottom line is that expectations were low entering 2023. But the Bears have been more competitive than anticipated, and Fields’ development is vital. Though playoffs are unlikely, finishing the season strong and establishing a winning culture matter. We must do everything possible to set Justin up for success next year.
Bear Down Bears fans! and as always… PEACE!
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