Week 5 keys to victory: Chicago Bears @ Indianapolis Colts

1. Get  Cameron Meredith and Josh Bellamy involved.

Kevin White’s injury will give a significant test to the Bears’ depth at wide out. The “next man up” speech has been given often this season, but the Bears’ young wideouts will have to step up.

Joshua Bellamy received reps last season due to a slew of injuries, and it looks like the injury bug will once again force Bellamy into action. While Bellamy’s sample size is rather small, he has shown that he is capable of producing big plays. Both of his career touchdown catches have been over 30 yards (34 and 48). With Jeffery drawing a considerable amount of coverage, Bellamy may have some home run opportunities.

Bellamy is technically ahead on the depth chart, but Cameron Meredith has been the one receiving game reps. Meredith has logged 6 catches for 52 yards this season, and his role is only expected to grow. The first thing that stands out about the former Illinois State quarterback is his size. Meredith is listed at 6’3, which is the same height as Alshon Jeffery. Much Like Jeffery, Meredith is capable of acrobatic catches over the middle of the field and along the sidelines. The undrafted free agent also plays with an unmistakable chip on his shoulder which is apparent when he goes over the middle of the field on slant routes.

Alshon Jeffery should be double covered for the majority of the afternoon, and Eddie Royal will be far from 100% with a calf injury. That leaves one on one match-ups for either Meredith or Bellamy to win. In the NFL, one on one match-ups in the NFL usually determine the winner and loser of a game. If the tandem of Meredith and Bellamy is able own their match-ups, the Bears are will have a great day on offense.