The Chicago Bears concluded two joint practices with the Indianapolis Colts on Wednesday and Thursday. Head coach Matt Eberflus sounded more than pleased with the results. His players got tons of great reps against quality competition. It is likely why he felt comfortable announcing that several starters won’t be playing in the upcoming preseason game on Saturday. Justin Fields will be among them. Eberflus was satisfied with how the young quarterback operated in both practices, continuing to show progress in his game as a passer.
Some wonder if that’s a good idea. While Fields did have some excellent stretches with some big plays through the air, the execution in 11-on-11 drills remains hit-and-miss. For every big play, it felt like there was a mistimed throw that ended a drive. Some resulted in interceptions. The timing and rhythm still aren’t up to standards yet. Eberflus was asked about his young QB’s progress after the second practice. Surprisingly, the head coach made it clear he thinks the problem has been elsewhere.
“I think he’s right on pace. He was 8-for-8 and had four touchdowns in 7-on-7, that was excellent. Rhythm, timing, he’s getting better there. Sometimes it’s a protection breakdown. It’s always everybody. It’s the other 10 guys that need to operate. Are we running the routes correctly? Are we protecting him the right way, giving him time? And doing those types of things it takes to have an efficient passing game.”
Matt Eberflus saw the problem right away.
One constant about Fields’ down moments during those practices was the fact he almost always had a guy in his face when it happened. Protection was an issue for the Bears in those full drills. This remains a concern for many, knowing how much pressure he endured last season with 55 sacks. That is why the team invested in guys like Nate Davis and Darnell Wright. The problem is the offensive line hasn’t had any continuity all summer. Davis has missed most of training camp with an undisclosed injury. Then when he finally returns, Cody Whitehair suffered a hand injury.
The starting five have barely practiced together for the past month. It’s hard to function as a unit that way. A vital key to good offensive line play is continuity. The Bears haven’t had that for years. Matt Eberflus may sympathize with this problem, but he also can’t use it as an excuse. Guys need to play better. The standard is the standard for everybody. Their #1 job is keeping Fields upright. This statement was a clear message that guys need to step it up. Things are about to get serious in another few weeks.
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