Chicago Bears lose to Atlanta Falcons: Offensive grades

If the Chicago Bears want to average more than 17 points a game, they’re going to need better play from their offensive line than what they got in yesterday’s game,

On one hand, the Bears did get 125 rushing yards from their running backs. And even though Jordan Howard didn’t have a great game, a 4.0 yards per carry average isn’t that bad. Plus, Cohen, in particular, might have had more yards if he had followed blocks more closely.

The pass protection, though? That certainly could’ve been better.

Neither Charles Leno nor Bobby Massie had great games, with Leno frequently getting pushed back into Glennon’s lap. In fact, the two tag-teamed to help end the Bears’ chances to win the game on the last play of the game. Leno lost ground and let pressure into Glennon’s face. And though Glennon didn’t help him with his pocket movement, Massie lost the edge to Brooks Reed. When you’re trying to win a game, you have to do a better job than that.

Also, the normally dependable Cody Whitehair continued his struggles from the preseason. He committed two costly holding penalties, one of which killed a late drive. Then, he ruined a third down play with a bad snap that Glennon had to pick up and throw away.

Next: Chicago Bears lose in a familiar way against Falcons

Hopefully, the return of Kyle Long will help solidify the play of the line, provided he’s healthy enough to play well. And ultimately, this performance could’ve been a whole lot worse. But for a team that can’t afford to make mistakes, the offensive line has to step up its game.