Finally. It is Trubisky-time in Chicago.
The news was reported on Monday morning by both NFL insiders Adam Schefter and Dan Graziano that John Fox has decided to ditch the stop-gap, veteran QB plan in Mike Glennon, and hand the keys to Mitchell Trubisky in what will be his debut on Monday Night Football against the Vikings.
Sources tell @AdamSchefter and me that John Fox has made the change at QB to Mitchell Trubisky for Monday's game.
— Dan Graziano (@DanGrazianoESPN) October 2, 2017
While lots of Chicago fans are breathing a sigh a relief, in no way are the Bears, or their season, revitalized (not yet, at least). Yes, Trubisky is the last string of hope the Bears have in this disappointing start to the season, but some will argue that the fire that John Fox and Co. are throwing Mitch in may be too hot. With that said, what better way to see what the second overall pick in this year’s draft can do than playing him on prime time against one of the league’s best defenses? Here’s what Bears fans can expect from Trubisky’s first start on Monday night.
Heavy dose of Jordan Howard and Tarik Cohen
Chicago’s offense has been, well, frustrating to say the least. John Fox has made it clear throughout his head coaching tenure that he likes a healthy dose of running the football and solid defense. The Bears have only held half of their end on that bargain, as running the football has been a struggle for three out of the their first four games. Most of which has to do with a lack of a threat in the passing game, but now that Chicago is playing an actual athlete at quarterback, it may make the job of #24 and #29 much easier, and vice versa. Bears fans shouldn’t expect their shiny new toy to come out guns-blazing and light it up with 30+ passing attempts. Let’s not forget that Mitchell is still a rookie and has much to learn. Pounding the rock with Jordan Howard and finding ways to get Tarik Cohen the ball in space will certainly aid the young passer to efficiency.
Play action. Play action. And some more play action
Assuming the above is true, it will set Trubisky up for an array of play-action possibilities. Possibilities Bears fans have yet to experience with Glennon under center, as most play-action plays were thrown out of the playbook. Here’s a stat, as Dan Durkin points out, that sums up Glennon and his ability to run any play-action;
I charted all of the #Bears' play-action passes under Mike Glennon (I survived!) — 1.2 net yards per attempt under Mike Glennon. For real.
— dan durkin (@djdurkin) October 2, 2017
That’s right. 1.2 net yards per play-action-pass attempts. More horrifying than any costume you’ll see in 29 days (except, maybe a Mike Glennon costume?). What Trubisky continuously showed us during the preseason was his ability to sell the play-action, roll out of the pocket with his eyes down-field, and throw the ball with accuracy or make a play with his feet. All of which will be a sight for sore Bears’ fans eyes as Glennon has been incapable of executing it. Run the rock, and watch Mitch work his magic.
2-3 man routes with max protection
It’s no secret that Minnesota has one of the best front-sevens in football. If I’m not mistaken, the Viking accounted for five sacks on Matthew Stafford this past Sunday. With Everson Griffin and Danielle Hunter coming off the edge, Bears’ tackles Bobbie Massie and Charles Leno will have their work cut-out for them. I expect Dowell Loggains to keep the playbook simple for the rook, likely keeping in max-protection with 2-3 route options for Trubisky to choose from. This will also put a lot of trust in Mitch, expecting him to make the right play (provided there aren’t any receivers open) either with his feet or by throwing the ball away. Drag routes will be key as well, as Trubisky has the ability to buy time and get outside of the pocket if a play breaks down.
Tight Ends to be more involved
Not only are tight ends often safety blankets for young QB’s, but it just so happens that the Bears’ best pass catchers are indeed their tight ends. Zach Miller and Dion Simms have shown they can be reliable when Mike Glennon decides to get them involved in the passing game. Loggains should look to get the big guys involved early with play-action boots and drag routes. This also forces the defense to defend the whole field, as Miller and Simms can threaten with seam-routes and sitting in empty zones in the middle of the field. Getting them involved early will take pressure off of the wide receivers to create separation as well.
This outing may or may not be pretty. Patience will be a must. But it’s finally time to see whether or not this organization is set to move forward, or will ultimately be set back another three years. No pressure, Mitch.
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