Bears vs Browns: Keys to a Chicago Bears Victory
Make the Browns One Dimensional
Oct 13, 2013; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns running back Chris Ogbonnaya (25) scores a touchdown against the Detroit Lions during the second quarter at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ron Schwane-USA TODAY Sports
Teams have been running against the Bears defense as if they’re not even on the field. Ray Rice rushed for nearly 40% of his season’s yardage at that time against the Bears shoddy run defense. The Browns traded Trent Richardson earlier this season, which looks like a great move based on his performance in Indianapolis. In doing so, they hitched their wagons to fullback Chris Ogbonnaya and Willis McGahee. McGahee has been ruled out for the game, so it’s up to Ogbonnaya, who’s rushed 42 times for 224 yards and added 41 catches for 291 yards receiving and 2 TD’s.
The Bears will have their hands full with Josh Gordon, who’s outshined Alshon Jeffery in recent weeks. That last thing they can afford to do is let the Browns go off in the running game.
Don’t Forget about Jordan
For years, Michael Jordan tormented the Cleveland Cavaliers. It’s all started with that shot on Ehlo.
The Browns have a Jordan that could haunt the Bears on Sunday, tight end Jordan Cameron. While there will be a lot of emphasis on Josh Gordon, for obvious reasons, don’t forget about Cameron.
He started the season on fire as one of the top tight ends in the league. He leveled off a little bit, but came roaring back onto the scene last week with an impressive 9 catch, 121 yard performance with a touchdown against the Patriots. Tight ends have done well against the Bears’ cover-2 defense and that was when they had competent players on that side of the ball.
Soup to Nuts
Dec 8, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Jason Campbell (17) during the fourth quarter of New England
Jason Campbell, who couldn’t play dead when he filled in for Cutler last season, is expected to start for the Browns. I affectionately call anyone with the last name Cambell “Soup” so I’d like to see a soup to nuts performance from the Bears on both sides of the ball.
The Bears are coming off their best overall offensive performance this season. They’ve had pockets and good mixed in with clumps of bad. It’s December and there is no more room for error. They need to start fast and play a complete game. Pressure Campbell, shut down the running game and protect the ball. Start fast and apply consistent pressure. Play all four quarter and give a solid start to finish game.
What do you think? What are your keys to a Bears victory? Let’s see your thoughts in the Comments below. It’s easy. Try it.