NEWSLETTER
The Chicago Bears’ offensive line has been a point of contention for the better part of two seasons.
Injuries to key starters, regression from others, and sub-par play from alternative options has really done a number on Chicago’s offense. So much so, fixing the line is an obvious top priority among position groups that aren’t quarterback. This group hasn’t provided many positives to write about in recent years, so I found myself encourage when one popped up seemingly out of nowhere.
Take it for what it’s worth:
Neither Alex Bars nor Sam Mustipher allowed a single pressure against Green Bay
A bright spot? pic.twitter.com/vTmwTPQ8Pw
— PFF CHI Bears (@PFF_Bears) November 30, 2020
Absolutely a bright spot! It’s the silver lining of a dark cloud that’s been raining on the Bears for the last 27 games!
It’s just one game. So the sample is admittedly small. But if Chicago was unable to unearth some useful depth along the offensive line, then I’ll take it. Anything to make that loss to the Packers sting a little less.
It’s a step in the right direction to see Sam Mustipher and Alex Bars play 100 percent of the offensive snaps at center and right guard, respectively. And that they played all 68 snaps without allowing a single pressure to a Packers defender is equally impressive. Yes, I realize that Mike Pettine isn’t having the best year coordinating Green Bay’s defense. But a club that has Kenny Clark, Za’Darius Smith, and Preston Smith attacking the quarterback is still a dangerous one. So, kudos to Bars and Mustipher for their efforts on Sunday.
It’s a shame Mitchell Trubisky and the Bears’ passing game didn’t take advantage of it:
In case anyone wonders, Foles went 11/20 deep (15+ yards) over the three weeks prior to this game. And yes, that includes an abysmal 1/5 with an INT versus the Vikings.
When Foles has time, he's connected. The stats ain't got a narrative. But behind this OL, that doesn't happen. https://t.co/74jpGPU0tk
— Robert Schmitz (@robertkschmitz) November 30, 2020
Nevertheless, the Bears offensive line took one small step toward making progress as a collective unit. Next up, doing the same against the Lions.
