This is our online morning newsletter, Bear Necessities. Subscribe to get the latest Bears news delivered to your mailbox every day.
Bears quarterback Justin Fields had his best passing game of the season in Sunday’s loss to the Packers. He completed 80 percent of his passes (20-of-25) for 254 yards, including completions of 56 and 49 yards, with two late interceptions.
It’s also no coincidence that the offensive line had its best game of the season. For the first time all season, the Bears didn’t allow any sacks. Which was important for Fields coming back from injury. According to Pro Football Focus, the O-line allowed three pressures and just one QB hit against Green Bay.
Bears coach Matt Eberflus praised the offensive line in pass protection, which was huge in giving Fields a chance to connect on some deep balls.
“Really the most important thing I thought for us was the protection,” Eberflus said. “What gave Justin Fields a clean pocket and to be able to operate the offense correctly was probably the most impressive thing that we had. We saw progress from that. That was really good.”
It was an impressive outing for a unit that’s been the worst in pass protection, allowing 42 sacks through the first 12 weeks. And it goes to show what this offense can accomplish when Fields gets time to throw.
“I think the O-line did a great job protecting,” Fields said after the game. “I think the run game was solid. I think the passing game really took a big step today. So I just felt comfortable out there going through progressions and stuff like that. Again, like I said, the O-line did a great job in pass pro.”
The offensive line will be tested over the last month, where they’ll face some tough defenses in the Eagles, Bills, Lions and Vikings.
[mm-video type=playlist id=01eqbve7kb6he6scwe player_id=01eqbvhghtkmz2182d image=]
- Jaylon Johnson named Bears’ 2022 Walter Payton Man of the Year nominee
- Where the Bears are slated to pick in 1st round of 2023 NFL draft after Week 13
- Bears QB Justin Fields made NFL history again vs. Packers
- Bears CB Jaylon Johnson takes pride in Aaron Rodgers’ praise for him
- Expect Alex Leatherwood to get more looks at right tackle
- Week 14 NFC North power rankings: Vikings on verge of division title
- Updated 2023 NFL draft order after Week 13
- Packers GM Brian Gutekunst won’t sacrifice winning for playing Jordan Love. READ MORE ON PACKERS WIRE.
- Vikings finally started utilizing blitzes vs. Jets. READ MORE ON VIKINGS WIRE.
- Comparing Amon-Ra St. Brown’s production to the 16 WRs drafted before him. READ MORE ON LIONS WIRE.