Chicago Bears vs Minnesota Vikings Preview: Inside the Numbers
Minnesota Vikings running back Adrian Peterson (28) Mandatory Credit: Benny Sieu-USA TODAY Sports
The one dimension happens to revolve around all-world running back Adrian Peterson, owner of a (11.0) PFF grade. This, of course, bodes poorly for the leagues worst rush defense (ahem, yes, the Bears are THE worst with a -67.3 grade). Peterson owns the second-best running back elusivity grade (69.3), which may very well increase given the Bears’ inability to maintain gap integrity and failures in the tackling department. Compounding matters, Peterson has forced 56 missed tackles this season, second only to Marshawn Lynch. Peterson’s success has had much to do with success of his offensive line. Brandon Fusco (11.5), Phil Loadholt (11.3), and John Sullivan (6.8) have helped open massive holes in the run game. Left tackle Matt Kalil (-4.9) and left guard Charlie Johnson (-5.6) remain liabilities for the Vikings, though, and the Bears would prove wise to plan accordingly. Only one skill position player not named Adrian Peterson has earned a positive grade from Pro Football Focus. Wide receiver Jerome Simpson has earned a (7.9) grade this season, far outpacing his career averages. Simpson has developed into a fairly consistent receiver, but he’s probably best known for this amazing feat of acrobatics from a few years back (seriously, well worth the click).
The Vikings have not faired all too well on defense, as indicated by their (-51.2) overall defensive grade. Household names Kevin Williams (6.2) and Jared Allen (1.7) remain fairly productive, but their best football is now squarely behind them. Linebacker Chad Greenway possesses the dubious honor of the league’s worst 4-3 scheme outside backer with his (-21.7) grade. Greenway was one of the league’s most productive linebackers from 2007-2010, but father time has turned the former first round pick into a shell of his former self. The Vikings have a bottom-six rush defense (-33.3) and a bottom-three pass defense (-42.4). Minnesota is a decidedly bad team and their record supports this statement. Injuries have obviously hampered the Bears throughout 2013, but one might be tempted to ask how much better the Bears current roster is than this putrid Vikings squad. Now, this author fully expects the Bears to win this matchup and keep pace in the NFC North race. However, the tilt vs St Louis seemed like a slam dunk prior to last Sunday’s first quarter. The Bears now own the leagues worst pass rush grade, (-53.5) after Robert Quinn completely dismantled Jermon Bushrod and Chris Long whipped Jordan Mills.
Have a great holiday with family and friends!