What's Happening?
Bears coach Ben Johnson expressed dissatisfaction with the team's offensive performance during the preseason finale against the Kansas City Chiefs. Despite recent improvements, the offense struggled, with quarterback Caleb Williams leading the team to only a field goal in three possessions against the Chiefs' starters. Johnson highlighted issues such as a fumbled handoff and poor decision-making by Williams. The Bears managed a 29-27 victory thanks to a late rally by backup quarterback Tyson Bagent, but Johnson remains concerned about the first-team offense's readiness for the upcoming season opener against the Vikings. He is contemplating narrowing the playbook to ensure better execution.
Why It's Important?
The performance of the Bears' starting offense is crucial as they prepare for the regular season. Johnson's concerns indicate potential challenges in achieving offensive consistency, which could impact the team's competitiveness. Adjusting the playbook might help address execution issues, but it also suggests a lack of confidence in the current offensive strategy. The outcome of these adjustments will be significant for the Bears' prospects in the upcoming season, affecting their ability to compete effectively in the NFL.
What's Next?
The Bears will focus on preparing for their season opener against the Vikings, with Johnson evaluating the playbook over the weekend. The team will resume practice on Monday, and decisions on playbook adjustments will be made to ensure the offense can perform effectively. The first few games of the season, leading up to the bye week, will be critical in determining the team's offensive identity and strategy moving forward.
