Chicago Bears: 5 Things to Watch for in Week 1
Bears’ Front Seven vs. the Run
In 2016, the Bears’ run defense was abysmal, giving up an average of 121.9 yards per game on the ground (ranked 27th). Although Falcons running back Devonta Freeman barley rushed for over 1,000 yards last season, he was a touchdown machine, running in 11 touchdowns—and he did the same in 2015. Chicago surrendered 18 rushing touchdowns in 2016 (tied for sixth-most).
Unfortunately, the Bears had to do most of that last year without nose tackle Eddie Goldman and inside linebacker Danny Trevathan. But this year, both Goldman and Trevathan are back, and are healthy. With the help of other players like defensive end Akiem Hicks and inside linebacker Jerrell Freeman, can the Bears’ front seven contain Freeman and the Falcons’ ground attack?