The Chicago Bears open the 2023 season against the Green Bay Packers. Winning this game is important for the Bears since they have not beaten the Packers in the past four seasons. Week one is the perfect chance to make that happen.
Since the Bears may finally have a more talented quarterback than the Packers. However, having a more talented quarterback does not guarantee a win because the team still needs to execute to win the game. With that in mind, here are four keys to a Bears victory in week one against the Packers.
Over the past few seasons, the Packers’ rush defense has struggled. This has been evident in these rivals’ last four meetings, as the Packers have allowed 100 or more rushing yards in each game. To continue this streak, the Bears must run the ball early and often in week one. Doing this will create a productive rushing attack that benefits the offense.
Having a productive running game benefits the offense because it wears down the Packers’ defense. A worn-down and tired Packers defense provides more opportunities for the offense to succeed. This is because defensive players will lose pursuits and blow coverages more often. Those types of bad plays will give the Bears offense easier opportunities to move the ball down the field and win the game.
As seen in the preseason, the Bears can have an explosive, quick passing game. So it is imperative that they get it rolling quickly against the Packers. Their quick passing game will be set up by running the ball early and often. This is because the Packers’ defense will be set up to stop the run, meaning coverage will be a bit softer. That means players may be left in one-on-ones. Taking advantage of that and getting the ball into the hands of D.J. Moore and other playmakers allows for yards after catch, helping move the ball down the field.
A rhythm in the quick passing game will help Fields’ confidence in passing the ball. Due to the fact that receivers gain a quarterback’s trust when they make a play for them. If the offense can have a good passing and rushing day, they will beat the Packers.
Considering this is only Jordan Love’s second career start, pressuring him is important. Putting Love under duress will cause him to panic and make questionable decisions, such as running into sacks and making errant throws. Love running into sacks will put the Packers behind the chains. Putting the Packers behind the chains gives the defense an easier opportunity to get off the field. Giving the defense the potential of being fresh for a longer period of time.
Putting pressure on Love will also force errant throws. Errant passes lead to incompletions and potential interceptions. Similar to sacks, incompletions will put the Packers’ offense behind the chains. Making it easier for the defense to end drives. At the same time, errant passes also lead to the possibility of an interception. Intercepting Love off of an errant pass would absolutely change the complexion of the game. Since it would mean one less potential scoring opportunity for the Packers, increasing the Bears’ likelihood of victory.
The Bears defense should have multiple chances throughout this game to create turnovers. As mentioned above, they should have a few opportunities to secure an interception. As well as having opportunities to force fumbles through hits on Love and hits on the young Packer receivers. Creating these turnovers is only part of the equation. The other part is capitalizing on them with points. It would be nice to see the defense take one turnover back for a touchdown.
However, if that does not happen, the offense will need to come out and score points. Scoring off of turnovers changes the momentum of a game. That is why it is extremely important for the Bears’ offense to score points off turnovers against the Packers.
“Follow” me on Twitter for more Bears and NFL coverage.
Stay tuned for additional exciting NFL coverage, and check out more sports or gaming content on The Game Haus!
“From Our Haus to Yours”
Players must be 21 years of age or older or reach the minimum age for gambling in their respective state and located in jurisdictions where online gambling is legal. Please play responsibly. Bet with your head, not over it. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, and wants help, call or visit: (a) the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey at 1-800-Gambler or www.800gambler.org; or (b) Gamblers Anonymous at 855-2-CALL-GA or www.gamblersanonymous.org.
