Here is why the Bears letting Justin Fields play in the preseason finale against the Bills
The Bears are faced with a challenge heading into Saturday's preseason finale against the Buffalo Bills at Soldier Field. Their offensive line is facing multiple injuries, leaving them with a decision: Do they let quarterback Justin Fields play behind this makeshift line or rest him, potentially slowing down the offense's momentum into Week 1?
Ultimately, they chose the former.
On Thursday, Bears head coach Matt Eberflus confirmed that Fields, along with any other fit starters, would get some game time on Saturday versus the Bills. The coaching staff weighed the condition of the offensive line before deciding. Their belief: game experience is crucial, more so since Fields and the main starters sat out the second preseason match.
"Getting him into a real-game situation is essential," emphasized Eberflus. "It's not just about game exposure but syncing him with the whole team."
The situation with the offensive line is concerning. Left tackle Braxton Jones remains the only unscathed starter. Others like left guard Teven Jenkins and right guard Nate Davis are grappling with injuries, among others. As a result, Saturday's offensive line for Fields might include players like Jones, Whitehair or Alex Leatherwood, Doug Krame, Ja'Tyre Carter, and Larry Borom.
The Bills intend to play their primary starters, meaning the Bears' temporary offensive lineup will face a significant test in protecting Fields.
While it would have been reasonable to bench Fields given the line's state, Eberflus and his crew feel game action is vital to address the offense's current inconsistencies.
Addressing how much game time Fields might get, Eberflus said they'd evaluate various factors like available players, team progress, and strategic considerations.
As they gear up for their game against the Green Bay Packers in 17 days, the Bears recognize the importance of real-time gameplay. They trust their offensive line will hold, and the team won't be adequately prepared for Week 1 without some on-field action during this preseason finale.
| POLL | ||
25 AOUT | 44 ANSWERS Here is why the Bears letting Justin Fields play in the preseason finale against the Bills Should the Bears play the starters in the last pre-season game? | ||
| Yes | 30 | 68.2 % |
| No | 14 | 31.8 % |
| List of polls | ||
