The Chicago Bears are headed to Tampa to face the Buccaneers after a heartbreaking loss at home to the rival Green Bay Packers.
Chicago is looking to bounce back after a disappointing team performance on offense and defense. While critics and gambling experts may have already penned this as a victory for the Bucs, there are a few ways the Bears can win this game.
Buy Bears TicketsBelow are our reasons for optimism heading into Week 2:
1. Baker Mayfield’s inconsistency is Chicago’s opportunity
There’s plenty of chatter about Baker Mayfield’s inconsistency, and in Cleveland, the frustration boiled over, resulting in him being traded. If the Bears send simulated pressure, faking the blitz, it will throw him off. Also, Tyrique Stevenson and Jaylon Johnson will have a busy day pressing receivers, disrupting Mayfield’s timing and forcing him to second-guess throws.
The Bears can let Baker be the first overall pick who took the Browns to the playoffs or the guy that’s been on three teams in the last two years.
2. Force Tampa Bay to run the ball
Run the tape back against Minnesota in Week 1, and Tampa Bay’s attempts to run the ball looked like someone trying to ice skate uphill. The offense gained 2.2 yards per carry on nearly 40 attempts. Seriously? While the Bears have been rough defensively, this is their opportunity. If Chicago has to pick between getting torched by Evans and Godwin or taking their chances with Rachaad White, Sean Tucker, and Chase Edmonds, they should pick the latter every time.
3. Test Tampa Bay’s run defense
Last year showed there were apparent cracks in Tampa Bay’s run defense. The Bucs allowed 4.5 yards per attempt and many 100-yard rushing games to opponents. While they opened strong against Minnesota, the opportunity is for Chicago to lean on the ground game, control the clock, and force Mayfield to play from behind.
Summary
The clash between the Bears and the Bucs is more than just another game; it’s a chance for Chicago to end an 11-game losing streak. Pressure is mounting for everyone in the organization. It’s time to show some heart and pull out a win. Can the Bears capitalize on the cracks in Tampa Bay’s defense and turn Baker Mayfield into a pumpkin? Here’s hoping Sunday afternoon, the Bears can restore the excitement from the offseason.
