Chicago Bears: Grading the team’s first half performance
Offensive line: C
I feel bad for this unit. They’ve taken a beating in terms of perception of their play. Many fans consider this to be one of the worst lines in the NFL. The numbers don’t bear that out, however. They’ve given up 19 sacks, which ranks them in the middle of the pack (18th).
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Yes, the edge blockers need some help. Charles Leno isn’t a very good blindside tackle. He commits too many penalties because he tries to get the jump on rushers. He does that because he is too slow to take them on. Bobbie Massie has gotten beat on too many occasions. I see changes in the offseason. Massie has an out and the Bears will likely take it. They’ll move Leno to the right side where he’ll be better, and they’ll look for a left tackle.
Cody Whitehair is having the sophomore jinx. He played great last season, but this season his snapping is shaky. Hroniss Grasu is dealing with injuries but is expected to play more in the second half. We are still waiting for the old Kyle Long to make an appearance. He’s dealing with a variety of injuries. If he gets over those injuries things could improve.
On the running attack, the line does a good job. The holes are there for big runs. The Bears rank ninth in average yards per carry and fourth in rushing yards. Part of that reason is because of the line. Sure, the line needs some improvement. They aren’t as bad as many think, though. A tweak here and there and this unit could really make some noise.