How did the Chicago Bears wide receivers fare against the New York Giants defensive backs
James Bradberry is not a household name to many. However, that is mainly because playing in Carolina, he has spent the first four years of his career with matchups against Mike Evans, Julio Jones, and Michael Thomas twice per year.
So, while he doesn’t always lock these big names down, his ability to face off with them on a consistent basis led to him seeing a big pay day from the Giants in free agency. On Sunday, the Giants got what they paid for.
Allen Robinson
Robinson matched up with Bradberry for the majority of the day. Robinson walked away 1-6 with 14 yards when he was lined up across from Bradberry, per PFF. He caught two passes for 19 yards working out of the slot. Overall, Robinson had 1.36 yards of separation per route run, which is lower than the 1.86 he had against Detroit.
Bradberry had two interceptions and three pass breakups. Fans may get on Robinson, and it was not his best day. However, it was a strong performance for Bradberry.
Darnell Mooney
Quickly, but surely, Mooney has become the second wide receiver we are mentioning. He was a perfect fit to replace Taylor Gabriel and has done that faster than expected. Mooney spent most of his day against Corey Ballentine, who Robinson torched last season.
Mooney had a solid overall day, with one catch for 15 yards on Ballentine. He also had two catches working the middle of the field, finishing with three for 36. He added five yards after the catch, and two receptions went for a first down or touchdown.
Beyond that, he averaged 3.15 yards of separation, which is well above league average. He should only get more playing time next week.
Anthony Miller
As the stock of Mooney rises, the stock of Miller falls. Miller is limited to his role in the slot, but two drops on three targets saw him fourth amongst wide receivers in snaps played. Miller faced a rookie in Darnay Holmes, and not to walk away with more production is disappointing. While Mooney had 3 yards of separation per route run, Miller averaged 0.71.
Javon Wims
Wims subbed in for Mooney to play outside. He is a better blocker, and it is clear they like his size in specific situations as they ease Mooney. However, Wims also saw snaps in the slot due to the poor performance by Miller. Wims had two catches for 17 yards against Darnay Holmes, both moving the chains.
Fans wondered if Wims would beat Riley Ridley this offseason, now he is sneaking up on the disappointing Miller.
Season Totals
Allen Robinson 8-17, 107 yards, 2.4 YAC/R, 6 first downs, 2 INT
Anthony Miller: 4-9, 76 yards 2.0 YAC/R, 4 first downs, 1 Touchdown 2 drops
Darnell Mooney: 6-6, 74 yards, 3.0 YAC/R, 4 first downs, 1 touchdown, 1 fumble
Javon Wims: 3-4, 18 yards 0.3 YAC/R, 3 first downs, 1 touchdown.