3 Reasons the Chicago Bears will beat the New England Patriots
3. A Score To Settle
The Chicago Bears went into the game against Miami with the best defense in football. They left as a mockery to the tradition this city embodies on that side of the football. The pass rush was nearly invisible, especially when Khalil Mack appeared hobbled with his ankle.
Leonard Floyd couldn’t get to Brock Osweiler. Neither could Akiem Hicks or Eddie Goldman. That needs to change against Tom Brady. If Brady is allowed to sit back and analyze, the Bears’ defense may not stand much chance. Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio knows this and will develop a gameplan that keeps Brady out of rhythm- easier said than done, of course.
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Limiting Rob Gronkowski will be a challenge, but the Bears have covered other notable tight ends well. Five-time pro bowler, Jimmy Graham, was held to two catches for only eight yards when the Bears and Packers met week one. Cameron Brate of the Buccaneers had three receptions for 29 yards and touchdown that came in garbage time. Safety Adran Amos has been outstanding in this tight-end coverage role, so expect him to shadow Gronkowski all game.
The secondary will assuredly be tested on short, timing routes, which are plays that seem to tear apart this secondary. Kyle Fuller had a semi-breakout performance against Osweiler, but he’ll have to be even sharper when he lines up opposite Brady and company.
The Bears came into the game as the top team against the run, they are still ranked second in total run defense. They will have to be stout against a Patriots’ run offense that ranks ninth in total rushing.
Perhaps a bye week and the Miami heat (weather not hoops) was a bad combination for this Bears’ defense, hopefully being at home will settle them back in.