Von Miller is one of the best defensive players of this generation. He’s a top tier pass rusher and a Super Bowl MVP. He likely has a bronze bust waiting for him in Canton when he eventually calls it a career. This man has played against the best quarterbacks in the business, so there are few more valid and informed opinions on that position to get from a defensive player. His thoughts on Mitch Trubisky certainly sounds fascinating.
Miller got his first glimpse of the Bears starting quarterback last year when the Denver Broncos visited Soldier Field in the preseason. Trubisky completed 72% of his passes for 166 yards and a touchdown in that game. He also rushed for 38 yards. It was a hell of a first impression for the rookie and one that stuck with Miller.
The two have since met again during the first of three joint practices between the Bears and Broncos ahead of their preseason tilt on Saturday in Denver. Trubisky reportedly had a good day, burning Miller’s defense with some precision passing in drills. Even the Denver media in attendance came away impressed.
Sampling of Denver sports radio, from guys who were at practice today: #Bears O dominated today. “Tight ends, top to bottom, just destroyed the #Broncos’ defense… Trubisky looked amazing.”
They also thought Broncos’ offense looked great. Weren’t really impressed w/ Bears D.
— Adam Hoge (@AdamHoge) August 15, 2018
Subscribe to the BFR podcast and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
Did Miller share in that opinion? That and then some.
Von Miller is a fan of Mitch Trubisky and where he’s headed
After practice, Miller met with the media to talk about the progress of his team and how working with the Bears helps. When asked for his thoughts on Trubisky as a quarterback, the pass rusher didn’t just offer a generic answer. He seemed to come across as a bit of a fan, hinting that he’s been following Mitch since college.
“Mitch is a great quarterback. I think with the offensive scheme and the players he has around him, he’ll be great. He was great last year. He was great in college as well. He’s their franchise quarterback. You gotta not let him scramble, not let him complete passes. I think that’s the same game plan every week. Unless you’re playing a fast guy which you know Mitch is fast, he can run. So he can do a little bit of everything so you have to be prepared for everything.”
Considering what Miller has done to great quarterbacks in the past, he doesn’t say things like this lightly. His respect is earned and Trubisky did that in practice on Wednesday. Bears fans should be excited about that. At the same time, Trubisky himself would be wise not to let it get to his head. Odds are Miller will be out for revenge the next time the two teams are on the field. Everybody has seen what he can do when motivated.
