Keys To Victory: Chicago Bears Enter Final Stretch

2 of 6

SANTA CLARA, CA – NOVEMBER 01: Head coach Kyle Shanahan speaks with Nick Mullens #4 of the San Francisco 49ers prior to their game against the Oakland Raiders at Levi’s Stadium on November 1, 2018 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/Getty Images) /

1. Shutdown Nick Mullens

In a league like the NFL, all you need is an opportunity to make a name for yourself. Once an undrafted free agent and fourth-string quarterback, Mullens rose to become the 49ers starter after injuries to Jimmy Garoppolo and C.J. Beathard.

Now, Mullens has posted 1754 passing yards, ten touchdowns, and six interceptions in six starts this year. While Mullens isn’t exactly a household name, he’s definitely proven to be a solid option that makes things work.

What the Bears need to do is shut Mullens down. He is the type quarterback that likes to sling the ball as soon as he sees an opening to his wide receiver. However, at the same time, Mullens also has trouble reading defenses correctly and will make mistakes by forcing things.

Because he has trouble reading defenses, Vic Fangio will need to confuse him with a variety of looks in order to get the ball out of Mullens’ hands quickly and disrupt any timing and rhythm he has with his playmakers.

This is what the Bears must do when playing against Mullens on Sunday. The goal needs to be to consistently pressure him while confusing him with complex coverages as a way of shutting down his two primary playmakers in George Kittle and Marquise Goodwin.

Home/Chicago Bears News