Chicago Bears: What to watch for in Week 1 vs San Francisco 49ers

How do the linebackers fair?

With the Chicago Bears going back to the 4-3 defensive scheme it brings changes to the linebackers unit. Robert Quinn and Trevis Gipson are now at the line and are defensive ends.

The Bears redid the linebackers unit. Nicholas Morrow and Matthew Adams join Roquan Smith. Morrow will play the middle while Smith will play “Will” or weakside and Adams the “Sam” or strong side.

Morrow and Smith give the Bears a fast, athletic duo. They should be able to make plays. Playing on the weak side, the off-ball position should give smith many opportunities to make big plays. As well as he’s been playing in his career, he could be even better at his new place. Shaquille Leonard played there in Eberflus’ system and he became arguably the best linebacker in the league.

If the linebackers could swarm all over the field it will make life easier for the other defenders. If the defensive line can get to Lance, he could make mistakes and the linebackers could be there to make the big plays and cause turnovers.