Anthony Miller’s career day started off anything but encouraging. The Bears’ second-year receiver had a slow start in the first half of Chicago’s comeback 24-20 victory over the Lions.
Miller dropped an eight-yard pass from quarterback Mitchell Trubisky in the first quarter. The play was initially ruled a fumble, but after review was ruled an incomplete pass. Then there was a costly fourth-down penalty, the ensuing play resulting in a turnover on downs.
‘‘What I’m thinking about is the first half I had; I think it was horrible,’’ Miller said, via the Sun-Times. ‘‘I think it’s one of the worst halves I’ve had since I’ve been playing in the league.’’
But things changed for Miller in the second half as he came alive in what was a career day — nine catches for 140 yards, including some clutch catches as the Bears overcame a 10-point deficit.
As the Bears were driving for the go-ahead score, Miller sparked the offense with three clutch receptions, including two third-down conversions, that got the Bears within striking distance.
‘‘They were dimes,’’ Miller said. ‘‘The ball’s where it’s supposed to be, and all I had to do was make the play.’’
Facing third-and-four on their own 16, Trubisky found Miller for a 35-yard reception that set the Bears up on the Lions’ 49. Then, facing third-and-five from the Lions’ 34, Miller completed a 32-yard reception that set the Bears up at the 2.
Two plays later, Trubisky found running back David Montgomery for a three-yard score that gave the Bears a 24-20 lead they wouldn’t relinquish.
In the last three games, Miller has caught 20 passes for 371 yards.
While Miller has had his share of struggles with the Bears in his first two seasons, these last couple of games seem to be restoring faith that the young receiver can make an impact for years to come.
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