Justin Fields calmly took the podium after the Chicago Bears fell 24-14 to the Green Bay Packers. Another in a long line of disappointing losses to their old rivals. On the surface, it seemed like the rookie was his usual self. Calm, composed, and even-keel. However, it didn’t take too long after he started answering questions to sense that the quarterback wasn’t happy. In fact, some of his answers betrayed a concealed anger.
Not at the media, but at how the game itself played out. It started with the officiating. Many consider the pivotal play of the game came in the 1st half. It looked like Packers defensive tackle Kenny Clark jumped offsides. Believing he had a free play, Fields decided to throw to the end zone. It was intercepted. Only after the play did he realize no flag had been throw. Everybody in the building and watching at home couldn’t believe it. Then there was the delay of game penalty in the 2nd half. Not only did Fields seem to imply the refs forgot to reset the play clock but also failed to see him call a timeout.
His frustration was clearly evident.
It didn’t stop there though. Fields also seemed to have some issues with the overall offensive performance. Everybody was quick to point out how he missed a wide open Allen Robinson during one play. He made it clear the play itself wasn’t designed to go to Robinson. In regards to the poor overall performance? He shouldered the blame. There was nothing the Packers did. He just didn’t play well enough.
The rookie finished 16-of-27 for 171 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. He missed some throws that were there and took some unnecessary sacks. However, he also made some really nice plays. Particularly in the second half. More evidence to suggest he is getting better.
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Justin Fields isn’t being put in the best position to succeed
While the greater commitment to the running game was necessary for the Bears, it hasn’t solved all the other problems with this offense. Everything just seems to lack imagination. There is rigidity to the system. It requires specific types of players to function properly. Nagy wanted to stick with Andy Dalton not so much because he’s better than Fields. It feels like more because his style of play fits the system.
Everything about this offense is lacking. Identity. Rhythm. Confidence. This is how you rank dead last in every major category. Justin Fields is a rookie, sure. He’s had some growing pains. Yet he is talented enough to perform better than this. The offense just won’t help him do so. It puts so much pressure on him to do everything. He isn’t ready for that yet, but the Bears don’t seem to have another alternative.
That falls at the feet of the coaches.
Justin Fields is a competitor. He wants to win and he wants to play well. When he doesn’t do either? He’ll get angry. As well he should. That is the type of player the Bears want playing quarterback for them. Somebody who holds himself and the team to a high standard. It’s good that he is angry. Maybe others will feel the same way.
