The start of the Matt Eberflus era has begun. While it’s the first preseason game, there are plenty of reasons to be excited. The Bears’ defense was productive and embodied the tenacity and hustle the new coach demands. The offense remains a work in progress, but there’s reason to be hopeful about the talent on the roster.
Quarterback Justin Fields only played three series but completed 4-of-7 passes for 48 yards, including two highlight-reel throws to receivers Darnell Mooney and Tajae Sharpe along the sideline. Unfortunately, Fields continued to hold the ball too long and took two sacks during his time in the game. He’ll need to clean that up, but the good news is the offensive line turned in a good day.
Rookie left tackle Braxton Jones shined and made a few key blocks. The rookie will have a lot to learn, but it’s easy to see why he’s competing for the starting left tackle job.
After today’s performance, Sharpe and Dazz Newsome will pressure the other wide receivers competing for playing time. Newsome caught a touchdown on a corner route, and Sharpe made a tremendous one-handed catch on the sideline.
Defensively, new faces defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad and rookie safety Jaquan Brisker flashed early and often in the first half. It’s exciting to think about the combination of Muhammad, Robert Quinn, and Trevis Gipson as a pass-rushing trio for the Bears.
The stars defensively were late-round defensive end Dominique Robinson and undrafted rookie linebacker Jack Sanborn. Robinson got a sack early in the third quarter, and Sanborn turned in a stat-sheet stuffing performance. The undrafted rookie had an interception, fumble recovery, and seven tackles.
Again, it’s the first game of the preseason, so it’s essential to manage expectations. The Bears are still a team projected to win 6.5 games. However, we can expect a team that constantly plays hard and a team with some kids on the roster who flashed tremendous talent.
