Running Back Usage
Will the Chicago Bears use Matt Forte and Jeremy Langford at the same time? Will the Bears utilize Ka’Deem Carey on goal line situations? This will be crucial to see.
Tampa Bay had no answer for the packages that offered the chance to have both Forte and Langford on the field together. Their versatility allows for this running back duo to be lethal.
Throw in the fact that Carey scored two touchdowns and one has to wonder how the Bears coaching staff will handle this decision.
Offensive snap counts for the running backs went as follows:
Matt Forte: 28 Snaps (39%)
Jeremy Langford: 38 Snaps (54%)
Ka’Deem Carey: 10 Snaps (14%)
Forte faces a major career decision at the end of this year, and one has to wonder if he is already thinking about it. He performed well this past Sunday and that may have to do with the fact that he is thinking about that next pay day.
As for Langford and Carey, Bears fans seem content with them leading the backfield moving forward. Young, prepared, and performing well – not much to not like.
When it comes to the game this Sunday look for the Bears to have Langford in on over 50% of the offensive snaps with Forte being on the field during about 35-45% of the teams offensive snaps. I feel this will be a week where Ka’Deem Carey will barely see the field, roughly 5%.
The Bears must see if they can push Forte and if his tank is still relatively full, but they must also determine that Langford is ready to be their feature back. Keep an eye out for how Gase & Co. handle snap count distribution.
Next: The End Is Near