Chicago Bears: Players to watch who must perform well to beat Bengals
The Chicago Bears take the field Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals in what hopes to be a more productive outing overall for both sides of the ball. We should hopefully see an offense that is not limited by the opponent’s defense. This is also a perfect scenario for David Montgomery to continue his impressive start to the season, as well as for Andy Dalton and the receivers to make strides in their chemistry.
Believe it or not, the defense is in for another big test. This Bengals offense is an underrated one, with plenty of loaded young talent surrounding the ball. It all has to start up front on the line of scrimmage for the Bears’ defense. The defensive line must set the tone and set it early to control how the rest of the defense plays.
Top Chicago Bears players to watch for on Sunday vs. Bengals
Chicago Bears Player to Watch No. 1: Allen Robinson to breakout for the first time in 2021
Not being lined up across one of the league’s best corners will be a huge plus for the Bears‘ number one receiver, Allen Robinson. Although the numbers don’t stand out as much from their Week 1 performance, there is one stat that shows immediate trust from Dalton to Robinson. Having only caught six balls last Sunday, Robinson was targeted 11 times — the most by anyone in the game. This Sunday provides Robinson with a matchup that favors him and the Bears’ passing offense.
Look for everyone to get involved, and have Dalton spread the ball amongst all pass catchers. More so Robinson is a very demanding receiver due to his skill set. No one should be shocked by a 10-reception game for 100+ yards for Robinson this week.
Chicago Bears Player to Watch No. 2: The Bears entire front seven
The Bears only recorded one sack on Matthew Stafford last week, and only had four quarterback pressures on the day. This game has a chance for all seven of the Chicago Bears pass rushers to be in the backfield causing disruption.
Cincinnati has had issues with the offensive line for multiple seasons, which could mean a big game for guys like Khalil Mack, Akiem Hicks and Robert Quinn. A strong front seven also limits the production from starting running back Joe Mixon, who in Week 1 had the league-high in carries as well as yards. Stopping Mixon will be a large part of stopping an offense that is on the rise.
Chicago Bears Player to Watch No. 3: Andy Dalton must have a productive game
A limited game script against a very good defense isn’t a good enough excuse to have Andy Dalton perform the way he did in Week 1. All signs should be leading to “GO” on Sunday for Dalton and the offense.
Dalton, who is 33-years-old, is in this situation with the Chicago Bears as a veteran who has loads of experience throughout his career and is playing to try and push the Bears to the playoffs. There should be no reason why Dalton should be the starter. He has nothing to prove other than can he still be a productive, above-average quarterback.
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Having someone like Justin Fields on the bench in a season that after tomorrow could very well be heading into bumpers fire, should be playing. If that is the case Dalton and his $10 million can guide Fields and his rookie season from the bench.