Justin Fields had his best performance of 2022 last Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings. He completed 15 of his 21 passes for 208 yards and a touchdown. It was the most comfortable and confident he’s looked as a passer in a long time. This gives Chicago Bears fans hope that he might be figuring things out in the new offense under Luke Getsy. Perhaps he might be able to build some momentum going into an interesting matchup against the Washington Commanders at Soldier Field.
It’s not unreasonable to think the idea is possible. Washington has the 19th-ranked pass defense in the league. They’ve proven vulnerable through the air all season. Now they’re about to be even more so. According to multiple sources, starting cornerback William Jackson III will miss the game with a back injury. This is a big loss for them since he’s their most dependable corner, thanks to his coverage and tackling prowess. It is the last thing that defense could afford going into such a pivotal game.
Commanders CB William Jackson III has been ruled out of Thursday’s game vs. the Bears and did not travel with the team, source confirmed (1st by @MikeGarafolo)
He’s been on the injury report with a back issue. He was limited in practice Tuesday.
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) October 12, 2022
.@bears @justnfields is developing! He is getting better. Better OL; better coaching; better play design; have faith Chicago…took the @vikings to the brink! You will be winning these kinds of games before the frost hits the pumpkin. #dabears #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/P2kAr4xMlk
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) October 11, 2022
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Justin Fields’ success will come down to his protection.
The only way Washington will be able to stop him is with their front four. That is the strength of their defense right now. Montez Sweat, Jonathan Allen, Da’Ron Payne have combined for seven sacks and 22 quarterback hits. They can create problems for an offensive line that isn’t ready for them. Everybody knows the Bears have suffered from inconsistent play up front. Braxton Jones, Larry Borom, and Sam Mustipher must step up to the challenge.
It is becoming clear Justin Fields has learned how to play with better poise in recent weeks. He’s not letting frequent pressure rattle him as it seemed to in September. He is getting the ball out faster and choosing his moments to run better. There is still lots of room for him to grow. If the Bears can control the line of scrimmage in this primetime game, it could set the stage for him to have the year’s best performance.
