The run game was one of the more frustrating aspects of the Chicago Bears’ struggling offense. But that didn’t fall on rookie running back David Montgomery as much as it did the offensive line and playcalling.
Still, in spite of the run game’s struggles, Montgomery put together a solid rookie season. He had 889 rushing yards and six touchdowns, as well as added 185 yards on 25 receptions and one touchdown. But Montgomery averaged just 3.7 yards per carry, which needs to improve in 2020.
There are many issues that the Bears have been focused on fixing this offseason, and the run game is among them. Chicago brought in some new offensive minds, including offensive coordinator Bill Lazor and offensive line coach Juan Castillo, that have some experience with the run game.
So it makes sense that Bleacher Report believes that Montgomery is primed for a breakout season in his sophomore year.
For the Bears to have success, they need to run the ball. And while Tarik Cohen is still in town, when it comes to the between-the-tackles work it’s all on Montgomery in 2020.
We’ve seen Montgomery play the role of workhorse before—he topped 250 carries during each of his last two seasons at Iowa State. If the Bears are going to even sniff a playoff spot this season, it’s going to take 1,200 yards on the ground from Montgomery—a number that would make fantasy football enthusiasts elated.
One of the things that was lacking for the Bears last season was balance on offense. Matt Nagy would abandon the run at first sign of trouble, which forced Chicago into a pass-first mentality, which certainly didn’t help a struggling Mitchell Trubisky.
Expect the Bears to commit more to the run game in 2020, and Montgomery will be a big part of that.
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