The Chicago Bears struggling offense has been a big part of the team’s 1-1 start.
Week 2 now is behind us, and the Bears rank 31st in the National Football League in yards per game (176.5), 32nd in passing yards (99.0), and 28th in rushing yards (77.5). Chicago averages 18.5 points per game but has only scored one offensive touchdown.
So, the question is, what can they do about it?
Bears legend and former seven-time Pro Bowl linebacker Lance Briggs has an idea. “No. 1, we probably need to fire the offensive line coach (Chris Morgan),” Briggs said. “When it comes to protection, when the defense brings five, you have five to protect against five.”
The Houston Texans sacked Chicago quarterback Caleb Williams seven times on Sunday night. He was pressured 19 times, hurried 13 more, and hit once, according to data from Pro Football Focus. So far, he’s been sacked a league-high nine times and faced constant duress, as the Bears have allowed more pressure than any other team in the league by a considerable margin.
Briggs believes the Bears can jump-start their offense by focusing more on their ground attack. “I think one of the things that will certainly help is the run game. No matter who’s in there…run game, push, double-team those guys to work up to the second level. You have a hell of a back in (D’Andre) Swift; two (if you count]) Khalil Herbert.”
Swift, Travis Homer, and Herbert didn't find much room to navigate against the Texans, combining for 27 yards on 17 carries.
Whatever the answer is, head coach Matt Eberflus has to find it soon, or his franchise quarterback may not make it through the season.
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