How the Bears can expose a major Dolphins weakness
The Chicago Bears (3-5) must exploit one significant area of weakness on Sunday when the Miami Dolphins (5-3) roll into town for a Week 9 showdown. The Bears added a much-needed weapon in WR Chase Claypool at the trade deadline to give Chicago’s subpar passing attack a boost. Quarterback Justin Fields stands to be the […]
The Chicago Bears (3-5) must exploit one significant area of weakness on Sunday when the Miami Dolphins (5-3) roll into town for a Week 9 showdown.
The Bears added a much-needed weapon in WR Chase Claypool at the trade deadline to give Chicago’s subpar passing attack a boost. Quarterback Justin Fields stands to be the primary beneficiary as he finally has an established playmaker on the outside.
The Bears picked a fine time to bolster Fields’ supporting cast. The Dolphins’ secondary has been vulnerable this season allowing an average of 262 passing yards per game. That number puts Miami as the NFL’s 25th ranked defense against the pass.
It should be noted that Detroit Lions QB Jared Goff went 27-for-37 for 321 yards and a touchdown last week. If Goff can shred the Dolphins, there is no reason as to why Fields can't.
Chicago’s offense has hit its stride over the last two weeks, averaging 31 points per game since the team’s min-bye week. Fields appears much more comfortable in the pocket, and offensive coordinator Luke Getsy has done well by calling designed runs.
Miami’s star cornerback Xavien Howard has been battling a groin injury all season long, but is expected to suit up on Sunday. However, Miami’s starting safety Eric Rowe is listed as questionable for the contest, which would be a major blow.
Expect the Bears to utilize their shiny new toy in Claypool against a mediocre Dolphins secondary. If Fields can get the passing game on track early, that will set Chicago up to grind out a win through its top-ranked rushing attack.
Featured image via Jerome Miron – USA TODAY Sports
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