Keys To Victory: Chicago Bears Enter Final Stretch
By Usayd Koshul
3. Capitalize On Solid Special Teams Play
Last Sunday against the Packers, the Bears played solid special teams. Tarik Cohen had a 44-yard return which set the Bears up in good field position. Additionally, Cody Parkey posted solid stats as well by not missing any field goals or extra points.
While Cohen’s 44-yard return was a game-changer, the Bears failed to capitalize and ended the drive with a field goal, even after starting in Packers territory.
Essentially, if the Bears special team sets up the Bears with solid field position, then the offense needs to score. 49ers Punter Bradley Pinion averages 43.4 yards per punt.
On average, against the 49ers, opponents usually start on the 30-yard line, which then results in them kicking field goals. The Bears cannot afford to do this. At some point, the defense cannot continue to bail this team out. It needs to be the offense that makes plays for this team.
All throughout this season, it’s been a common theme where the special teams ends up setting up the offense in good field position, yet the offense fails to make things happen which can usually end up being the difference maker in many critical games.