1. Mitch Trubisky Keeps on Rolling
The early season bust-banter has died down after Mitch Trubisky’s last two starts. The last two games, the young QB has thrown for 670 yards, nine touchdowns to only two interceptions. In those two matchups, Mitch faced two very different defenses. Trubisky looked just as efficient against Miami’s fast secondary as he did against Tampa Bay’s open-air space.
The Patriots come into the game with the league’s 22nd worst passing defense, meaning Trubisky will have plenty of opportunities to get the ball into the hands of his playmakers. What we’ve seen in Trubisky has been an insurgence of confidence that has spread throughout the offense. He’s hit five different receivers in each of the last two games. We’ve seen a valuable return on Allen Robinson, and Taylor Gabriel has become a more than reliable No. 2.
New England does have some big names on their defense that the offense will have to be mindful of. Stephon Gilmore and Patrick Chung have had some struggles this season, but both are savvy veterans who will pick apart an unfocused quarterback. The same can be said about Devin and Jason McCourty. Adrian Clayborn and Dont’a Hightower both have played in some big games so their presence won’t be taken lightly either.
What the Bears offense lack in championship pedigree they make up for with youth and a desire to reach such aspirations. If Mitch wants to be viewed as a great quarterback he has to beat other great quarterbacks. He had a chance to take down Aaron Rodgers on the road and failed. Now he has Tom Brady at home; does he take advantage of this opportunity?