The Chicago Bears will look to build on their positive momentum this weekend as they prepare to travel to Charm City for a showdown against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 8.
Despite missing practice to begin the week, it looks like former MVP Lamar Jackson is trending towards returning to action after being sidelined for Baltimore's last two games with a hamstring injury. With Jackson, likely, returning to action, the Bears' defense must be up to the task of slowing down the Ravens.
That won't be the only area Chicago must perform at a high level, though. Caleb Williams and the offense must keep the pressure on Baltimore by executing Ben Johnson's game plan. That means receiving production from all facets of the roster, including tight end.
With Cole Kmet having notably struggled thus far, this matchup could present Colston Loveland the perfect chance to take the starting job by the horns. For the second day of practice, Kmet was a DNP, and it looks like his availability for Sunday's game is in jeopardy.
With more opportunities up for grabs, Loveland can take firm control of the starting job.
Colston Loveland Has Big Chance to Seize TE1 Role
In the victory over the New Orleans Saints in Week 7, Loveland logged a season-high 67% of the offensive snaps. He saw a career-high four targets come his way, finishing with three catches for 24 receiving yards. On the season, he has eight receptions for 78 receiving yards.
Although Loveland hasn't had the impact in the passing game that many imagined, the rookie has still caught the attention of his head coach for his impact as a run blocker. The Michigan product isn't getting discouraged either and is just waiting for his big game to come.
""I said this earlier, whenever my number's called, I've got to go make a play, and I believe that's going to come. There will be a game where I get my opportunity, so I've just got to make the most of it, continue trusting in it. But I'm having fun out there right now, playing ball with all my guys.""Colston Loveland
The Bears' offense has been a work in progress thus far, and over the last few weeks, they've been able to get the ground game going. Over the past two weeks, specifically, Chicago has compiled 367 rushing yards, which obviously will take away passing attempts from the offense.
As the season goes on, the expectation is that the offense will continue to improve. Loveland has tremendous traits and skills that are waiting to be unleashed as a pass-catcher. There's a reason why Chicago used the 10th overall pick on him, and this contest against the Ravens gives him a golden opportunity to step up.
The Ravens are 30th in the NFL in total defense (380.8) and 28th in passing defense (246.7). There will be opportunities for big plays to be made in the pass game, and it'll be interesting to see if Loveland can take advantage of that.