Chicago Bears: 3 matchups to exploit against Seattle Seahawks

Akiem Hicks vs. D.J. Fluker

For the next matchup, the Bears need to exploit, we don’t have to travel too far. In fact, we need only look to the man lining up next to Mack. Defensive end Akiem Hicks lined up on the left side, next to Mack last week, and as stated above, Mack is expected to line up in the same spot this week across from Ifedi.

This week, Hicks’ opponent will be right guard D.J. Fluker. Although Fluker was at one time the no. 11 overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft, that was a long time ago. Since then, Fluker has struggled to live up to expectations and was even released by the Los Angeles Chargers just three years after he was selected.

And now he is going to have to face Hicks who was a one-man wrecking crew last season without any pass rushing help. But as we saw in the Packers game, Hicks was a huge beneficiary from Mack’s addition, and that side of the defensive line is only going to get better.

To further complicate the situation for Fluker he came out on the most recent injury report released on September 13th.  As noted above, he was a non-participant in practice due to a hamstring injury. As it stands now, Fluker appears doubtful. Much can change prior to Monday though.

Look, Fluker was fighting an uphill battle going up against Hicks fully healthy. However, dealing with a hamstring injury is going to make it very difficult for him to not only handle Hicks but provide any help to a struggling Ifedi against Mack. And if a healthy Fluker would have struggled, how do you think his backup will fare?

After examining the right side of the Seahawks’ offensive line, I am certain of one thing. I would not want to be Russell Wilson on Monday night.