Chicago Bears: 3 crucial actions Matt Nagy must take vs. Bucs
By Ryan Heckman
2. Play Robert Quinn a high amount of snaps
The Bears’ big free agent acquisition, Robert Quinn, was paid over $50 million to come in and be an integral part of the defense. Chicago didn’t have to spend that kind of money on a pass rusher, but Pace decided to do so anyways.
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All offseason long, the thought of seeing Quinn and Khalil Mack rushing the passer together gave fans so much excitement. Quinn has been one of the most efficient edge rushers over the last few years when it comes to pressuring the quarterback. So, putting him on the other side of Mack should equal fireworks.
On the season, Quinn has played just over 30 percent of snaps. Sunday against the Colts, that number rose a little bit to 44 percent. But, he has to be on the field more — period. But, why pay a guy that kind of money when he’s not being used full-time?
He was hurt during training camp. That’s understandable. But, if he’s not appearing on the injury report now, get him out on the field.
The best way you can beat Tom Brady (and there aren’t many of them) is to hit him. Pressure alone doesn’t work. You have to hit him, knock him down and let him know that it’s not going to stop. That’s the only way you will stop this guy. It doesn’t matter if he’s in his 40’s. He’s the best to ever do it for a reason, and Quinn has to be on the field if the Bears defense is going to get to Brady.
Nagy and Chuck Pagano have to come to an agreement to get Quinn on the field for at least 65 percent of snaps on Thursday night. Mack was out there for 88 percent of defensive snaps against the Colts — twice as much as Quinn. They have to be on the field, together, for a larger part of the game. It’s a must.