Chicago Bears GM Ryan Pace undoubtedly is focused on December like the rest of Chicago Bears fandom. He knows these remaining four games will decide the season. At 6-6, the team has to win at least three of the four to even have a remote chance at the playoffs, but more likely all of them. Considering those four games are against the Cowboys, Packers, Chiefs, and Vikings? That might be asking a bit too much.
Nevertheless, Pace has other responsibilities beyond watching his team play. He has to make plans for how he’s going to fix the problems present on the current roster. That involves the NFL draft. Thus he was busy on Saturday taking in a game. None other than the rivalry matchup between Ohio State and Michigan. A fine choice given both programs are known for producing quality pro talent.
What he witnessed wasn’t pretty. The Buckeyes did the same thing they did a year ago, demolishing the Wolverines with a 56-27 onslaught. It was an absolute clinic that showcased just how much talent that program has. Especially on the offensive side. Why is this so important? Mainly due to Pace’s track record. When he drafts players high, it almost always involves one he has seen in person.
It was true with Mitch Trubisky, Roquan Smith, and David Montgomery. It could be true again here.
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Ryan Pace will have definitely noticed these names
If Pace is indeed looking for offensive help going into next year, there were plenty of names who stood out. The star of the game was running back J.K. Dobbins, who rushed for 213 yards while catching two passes for another 49. Wide receiver Garrett Wilson had 118 yards and one touchdown. Perhaps most tantalizing was quarterback Justin Fields who threw four touchdown passes. Unfortunately, he won’t be eligible for the draft in 2020.
It wasn’t just exclusive to Ohio State though. Michigan had a few standouts too. Wide receivers Ronnie Bell and Donovan Peoples-Jones combined for 157 yards and a touchdown. Perhaps most interestingly from the Bears’ perspective? Tight end Sean McKeon made three catches for 66 yards. While they weren’t able to keep up with the Buckeyes, they still scored 27 points against a pretty good defense.
Defense may not have been the focal point of the game, but there were plenty of individual studs. Ohio State safety Jordan Fuller made five tackles and deflected two passes. Big defensive tackle DaVon Hamilton had a sack and two tackles for a loss. Michigan linebacker Cameron McGrone made eight tackles and 1.5 for loss. So there was plenty for Pace to take in and a ton of talent who might be able to help the Bears next year.
The question is who was the apple of Pace’s eye?
