Good Morning, New York Giants Fans!
Overcoming the Chicago Bears will be a challenge for the New York Giants, especially considering their inability to beat teams like the Jets, who were arguably worse before week 10. The Jets were coming off a disappointing loss to the winless Miami Dolphins, and the Giants were expected to perform better than they subsequently did.
The Bears represent a far more significant challenge, despite quarterback Mitchell Trubisky’s struggles this season.
Here are the three keys to beating the Bears in week 12:
1.) The offensive line
The front five for the Giants has been decimated with poor play the past few weeks, and against the Jets, they were without center Jon Halapio, right tackle Mike Remmers, and left tackle Nate Solder left the game early with a concussion. This week, they will gain back both tackles, which should open up the door for a better run game and more time for Daniel Jones in the pocket. However, even when the line was healthy, they were still playing poorly.
Khalil Mack will line up opposite the Giants offensive line this Sunday, which will be bad news for Jones. They must step up and show they can play as a cohesive unit for the sake of their rookie quarterback.
2.) The pass-rushers
Only Markus Golden has shown any support in the pass-rushing department, as he’s logged 6.5 sacks and 15 QB hits this season. Putting Trubisky under pressure is a priority, so we should expect an array of blitzes from defensive coordinator James Bettcher. However, the outside linebacker must come to play against Chicago, or their offense will find its rhythm, similar to the Minnesota Vikings, who were stalling before pummeling the Giants defense.
3.) The tight ends
With Evan Engram and Rhett Ellison both scheduled to miss week 12, the Giants were forced to bring back Scott Simonson, who was cut after suffering a high ankle sprain during preseason.
Simonson is a capable blocker and pass-catcher, but he doesn’t have the elite speed Engram does to open up the middle of the field. We can expect him to garner a good percentage of offensive snaps and play a significant role in the run game, but his average skill-set will be the most he has to offer. I expect the Giants to work around him and focus on both Sterling Shepard, who’s returning from concussions symptoms, and Golden Tate.
Nonetheless–
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