How Justin Fields Has Stood Steadfast for the Bears During Turbulent Times.
Beyond the walls of Halas Hall, the narrative about the Bears has shifted dramatically. From preseason enthusiasm, to disappointment after a Week 1 loss to the Packers, and into utter pessimism following Week 3's crushing defeat to the Chiefs. Hopes for the playoffs have evaporated. The buzz that Justin Fields might emerge as a top-five MVP candidate has transformed into debates about drafting a new QB next year.
However, within Halas Hall, the vibe is distinct. Though the team acknowledges their underwhelming performance in the season's first three weeks, there's a notable absence of hysteria. Fields, now in the eye of criticism, appears to be weathering this storm with grace.
Offensive coordinator Luke Getsy remarked, «In these turbulent times, he's stepping up admirably. He's shouldering the responsibility and taking charge. Watching him embrace this challenge has been heartening.»
It might seem exaggerated, but Fields has faced considerable challenges this season. His on-field statistics are lackluster. Completing only 58% of his passes, averaging 175.3 passing yards per game, and a disappointing 3:4 TD:INT ratio. Compared to last season's 7.1 yards per carry, his ground game has stalled at 4.5 yards.
While Fields is partly to blame for the offense's sluggishness, he isn't the sole culprit. Getsy's playcalling has been occasionally perplexing, sometimes placing Fields in precarious situations. An example being the three consecutive screen passes against the Bucs that culminated in an interception. Errors from teammates, whether missed blocks or poorly executed routes, have also compounded the problems.
Off-field dramas haven't helped either. Last Wednesday, Fields alluded to coaching as a contributing factor to his struggles, which ignited a media frenzy. This led Fields to clarify his stance, emphasizing he wasn't pointing fingers at the coaching staff. The media's reaction was so intense that Fields seemed more cautious during his next press briefing.
DJ Moore humorously noted, «I saw him at the press conference and told him he should smile more. I think he handled it all well. I'm proud of him.»
Teammates frequently laud Fields for his steady leadership. He hasn't oscillated in his approach or tried to be someone he's not. Andrew Janocko, quarterbacks coach, emphasized the importance of this constancy in rallying a team.
«Consider a storm, where animals seek shelter,» Janocko said. «They flock to the evergreen tree, always a beacon regardless of the season. As a leader, you need to be that unwavering presence.»
While this evergreen analogy might be labeled as "football science," in the gridiron context, it's apt.
Starting running back Khalil Herbert observed, «He's consistently authentic. Not easily swayed by highs or lows. Despite all the noise, he remains focused, expecting the best from us during practice.»
Rookie right tackle Darnell Wright added, «He's an authentic leader. Even if our record was perfect, he'd remain unchanged.»
Fields not only demands the best during practice but also offers individualized encouragement. For rookies like Wright, this personal touch speaks volumes.
«He'll pull you aside and urge you to focus,» Wright said. «It's uplifting, especially coming from someone like Fields. He's a genuinely cool guy.»
In the end, Fields' style instills confidence in his team. While outside critics might dismiss the Bears, within their ranks, led by Fields, belief persists.
«It's a marathon, not a sprint,» Wright reminded. «With persistence, we believe success will come our way.»
| POLL | ||
28 SEPTEMBRE | 59 ANSWERS How Justin Fields Has Stood Steadfast for the Bears During Turbulent Times. is Justin Fields a bust? | ||
| Yes | 36 | 61 % |
| no | 23 | 39 % |
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