Keys To Victory: Chicago Bears Face Major Test
By Usayd Koshul
4. Win The Turnover Battle
In a game where two top defenses will be facing each other, it’s important that the Bears offense protects the ball, while the defense forces turnovers. Field position will especially be important in this game.
The best chance that the Bears have at forcing turnovers is by shutting down the Rams passing game. In fact, to keep up with the Rams, the Bears might just have to run a pass-heavy offense. Los Angeles Running Back Todd Gurley has just one fumble all year, proving that solid ball security is a strong attribute of his. This means it’s up to the Bears defensive backs to help the offense.
In the Rams passing game, there are two main players the Bears will need to shutdown: Brandin Cooks and Robert Woods. Cooks is a deep threat receiver who is averaging 16.3 yards per reception. The Bears will need to use Eddie Jackson’s unique skillset to help stop Cooks from making any big plays.
The Rams second best option at wide receiver, Robert Woods, will likely be matched up against Prince Amukamara all game. Amukamara is a physical cornerback, who’s not afraid to get into the head of the receiver. Woods averages 15.2 yards per reception but the Rams use him in multiple situations, placing him all over the field.
In man coverage, the Bears cannot lose track of Cooks at all, which is why Eddie Jackson’s range and ability to cover ground so quickly is so valuable. If Jackson jumps a route, while keeping his eyes on the quarterback the entire time, then it’s likely an easy interception.
In zone coverage, Robert Woods is a dangerous receiver as Jared Goff will throw the ball into open space and almost always, Woods has the speed to make catches. It’s important that the Bears don’t allow Woods to find any open field because he has the potential to turn a short pass into a big gain. We’ll likely see Prince Amukamara and Bryce Callahan try to shut Woods down.