Chicago Bears: 3 Bold predictions vs. Buccaneers in Week 7

Fields has his best game as a starter

One of the things the Buccaneers pride themselves on is their defensive aggressiveness. While the Chicago Bears are low on the blitz list, Tampa holds the top spot. They blitz on 39 percent of their defensive snaps. The next on the list are the Carolina Panthers and they are at 34 percent.

One of the problems for the Bears’ offense is that their strength works right into Tampa’s strength on defense — the running game. The Bucs rank at the top in all the running categories.

The Bears’ running game has been their salvation this season. They rank seventh in rushing yards (774) and ninth in rushing touchdowns (7). Tampa will look to neutralize that strength.

The last time the Bears faced an aggressive defense they got embarrassed in Cleveland by the Browns. Nagy won’t be calling the plays, however. Offensive coordinator Bill Lazor is calling the plays now. He’s done a good job of using the tight ends and running backs to block or chip pass rushers. Additionally, he uses Alex Bars as an eligible receiver to add more beef to the offensive line.

This means Fields has to have a big game. In contrast to their elite play against the run, Tampa’s pass defense is on the opposite end. They rank 27th in passing yards allowed and 28th in passing touchdowns allowed.

Fields has to take advantage of that. If Tampa takes away the run then he has to hit his receivers often. If not, he and his teammates will have a repeat of Cleveland.

Prediction: Fields completes 64 percent of his passes for 267 yards and 2 touchdowns. He runs for 54 yards and has a touchdown.