Chicago Bears: What to look for in Week 12 vs New York Jets

Justin Jones could be a big key on defense for the Chicago Bears

One of the problems the Chicago Bears have had this season has been the defense. The Bears have struggled to stop opposing teams.

The pass defense has been pretty good. They rank 9th in passing yards allowed, 8th in passing touchdowns allowed, and 11th in interceptions.

The front seven, however, has struggled. They aren’t putting pressure on the quarterback. In addition, they haven’t stopped the run. The defense ranks 29th in rushing yards allowed and 31st in rushing touchdowns allowed.

One bright spot, however, is defensive tackle Justin Jones. He is on his way to having a career year in tackles and sacks. In the last two games, he has done a good job of getting into gaps and disrupting runners.

Jones has a favorable matchup this week. He goes up against left guard Laken Tomlinson. Tomlinson is struggling this season, especially against the run. Pro Football Focus ranks him 80th of 83 guards at run blocking and 64th overall.

Tomlinson doesn’t have the ability to overpower Jones. Jones should be able to find himself in the Jets’ backfield. It is crucial that he does. Opposing quarterbacks have had all day to throw and given so much time, they eventually find an open receiver.

New York’s offense has struggled to move the ball so Jones and the rest of the defense should play well. If they don’t, it will be another frustrating loss for the Chicago Bears.