The Bears’ schedule remains challenging in Week 7 as they head to Tampa Bay to face the reigning Super Bowl champion Buccaneers.
Furthermore, the Bucs held a significant lead of almost two touchdowns earlier this year. This marks the first time in the season that the Bears are considered double-digit underdogs.
After a disappointing 24-14 loss to the Packers, Chicago is now gearing up to take on another legendary quarterback, Tom Brady, in Week 7.
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The Bucs have had a strong start this season with a 5-1 record, especially excelling at home. They are undefeated at Raymond James Stadium with a 3-0 record and have averaged 41.3 points per game in those three matchups.
The Bears have had a strong defensive performance, ranking second in the NFL in sacks per game and seventh in opposing yards per game. Khalil Mack and Robert Quinn have been effective in living up to their high-priced contracts.
However, as we saw in the game against the Packers, a strong defense can only carry a struggling offense for so long against a tough opponent. Can we expect Justin Fields and the Chicago Bears to score enough points to succeed, even if they manage to pose more challenges for Brady than other teams have?
Check out the latest odds for Justin Fields to win Rookie of the Year
Fields has scored a total of 40 points so far this season for the Bears, with individual game scores of 6, 20, and 14. Even though Tampa Bay ranks eighth in yards allowed, the Bears have an opportunity to improve their standing if Fields delivers a standout performance.
Why Fields might be required to take the Bears’ offense
Despite ranking ninth in opposing feet per game, the Bucs have one of the worst go threats in the NFL.
Tampa Bay ranks 27th in terms of yards allowed per pass attempt, demonstrating a strong run defense as predicted. The Buccaneers only allow 54.8 rushing yards per game, significantly higher than the league average.
What is the one thing the Bears have consistently excelled at this year? Running the ball. Chicago ranks eighth in the league in rushing yards.
The standout running backs for the Bears, David Montgomery, Damien Williams, and Khalil Herbert, have all impressed this season. Herbert, the third-stringer, shined on Sunday by running 19 times for 97 yards.
It wouldn’t be surprising to see Herbert start in Week 7 if Williams returns from his COVID-19 absence.
That being said, the Buccaneers’ front seven is incredibly strong. Fields will need to bring his A-game if Chicago wants to stand a chance against them.
Furthermore, Fields has showcased his dynamic speed in open-field situations and has impressed with his accurate throws, despite facing challenges as a rookie. He currently ranks 30th among qualified passers, with an average of 6.4 yards per pass attempt.
When evaluating Future Fields & rsquo, Bears pass blocking, receivers struggling to get open, and negative skewing of some stats are all essential factors to consider. It is understandable why the Bears are almost a two-score underdog when facing Brady and the Bucs on the road.
The Bears made the right decision to be patient with Fields and focus on establishing a solid running game. Nevertheless, it could be time to unleash the rookie quarterback in Week 7.
Under Matt Nagy, Chicago has struggled as a big opponent.
During Nagy’s time as head coach, the Bears have consistently performed poorly as significant underdogs, both in terms of wins and against the spread.
The Bears have a straight up record of 2-15 under Nagy following their loss to the Packers on Sunday, making them an underdog by at least a field goal. This outcome was anticipated, but in addition, they are also 3-14 against the spread in these situations.
The previous statistic is particularly enlightening.
One of the victories against the Raiders in Week 5 was achieved, but the Bears have yet to show their ability to be a disruptive underdog under this leadership.
Will that change come Sunday? Maybe, maybe not. At least this game won’t be in prime time, as all Bears fans can agree on.
The Bears and Bucs game on CBS this Sunday started at 3:25 p.m. CST.
