Bears vs Saints: Top 5 Bears Who Need to Step Up vs Saints
Sep 15, 2013; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Vikings quarterback Christian Ponder (7) throws a pass while pressured by Chicago Bears defensive end Shea McClellin (99) during the fourth quarter at Soldier Field. The Bears won 31-30. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
2. Shea McClellin
Julius Peppers has started to show signs of life on the defensive line, but the other end position has not been good enough. The Bears had to kick Wootton inside to the 3-technique with Melton out, and that’s exposed McClellin. He has struggled to set the edge on run defense and hasn’t been getting after the quarterback in passing situations. Phil Emery’s first top draft pick is on the road to Bustville if he can’t start performing at a higher level on a consistent basis.
1. Chris Conte
The Bears safety duo is ranked the second worst in PFF’s rankings. That’s surprising since Major Wright and Chris Conte were thought to be finally bringing some stability to the Bears secondary. I suppose we shouldn’t mistake continuity for consistency.
Jimmy Graham and Darren Sproles present major matchup challenges in the passing game and Conte will be a key to slowing down the Saints passing attack. He’ll be tasked with matching up with Graham at times and might have to step up to secure the tackles on Darren Sproles underneath.
What do you think? Who needs to step up their game against the Saints? Let’s see your comments.