In the midst of a struggling offense, a team’s leadership council gathered to address concerns after a recent loss. The offensive coordinator, Shane Waldron, met with the team’s captains, including quarterback Caleb Williams, tight end Cole Kmet, wide receiver DJ Moore, and tight end Marcedes Lewis, to discuss the state of the unit.
Waldron praised the captains for their honesty and dedication to working out the issues, which have resulted in a league-worst 3.7 yards per play average. Lewis, a 19-year veteran, delivered a powerful message to Waldron, emphasizing the importance of coaching and collaboration.
The team’s struggles in the run game have been particularly evident, with the offense ranking 31st in yards per game and 31st in yards per attempt. Waldron acknowledged that he needs to improve in certain situations, including a goal-line series against the Colts that ended in a turnover on downs.
The team’s plan had been to use running back Khalil Herbert in short-yardage situations, but the key to the running game was always meant to be Pro Bowl player D’Andre Swift. However, Swift has struggled, averaging only 1.8 yards per carry this season.
Despite his struggles, Swift has maintained a professional attitude, according to running backs coach Chad Morton. The coaches have met with Swift to discuss how he can improve, and they are experimenting with different personnel in the run game.
One potential solution could be giving more snaps to Roschon Johnson, who finished with a team-high 30 rushing yards in Indianapolis. Johnson brings a physical style to the game, and his ability to make subtle moves could provide a breakthrough for the offense.
Against a struggling Rams defense, the Bears have an opportunity to find the right utilization of their running backs and get their offense back on track. As Waldron emphasized, it’s all about fundamentals, techniques, and full ownership of each player’s role and responsibility.
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