Unlikely Hero Steps Up In A Big Way in Bears Debut
The Chicago Bears' offensive line looked awful through the first three weeks of the season. According to PFF, the offensive line combined for 34 quarterback pressures, 27 quarterback hurries, and seven sacks in the first three games. The lack of protection Caleb Williams received was alarming and needed to be fixed to avoid stunting his development.
Thankfully, the Bears' offensive line has performed much better in pass protection in the past two games, allowing 12 QB pressures, nine QB hurries, and two sacks against the Rams and Panthers. The offensive line's improvement has been mainly without left guard Teven Jenkins, who has left the past two games with injuries.
Backup guard Bill Murray had an outstanding game against the Panthers on Sunday. According to PFF, Murray allowed zero sacks, pressures, or hurries and had zero penalties in 37 snaps. Murray earned an 83.9 overall grade, an 85.7 pass-blocking grade, and a 79.2 run-blocking grade for his performance.
Chicago Bears' OG Bill Murray, yes Bill Murray, who came in to replace Teven Jenkins who left with an ankle injury against the Panthers played awesome!
— Harrison Graham (@HGrahamNFL) October 7, 2024
In 37 snaps, he graded out per PFF...
- Overall: 83.9
- Pass Block: 85.7
- Run Block: 79.2
- 0 Hurries, Sacks, Hits or… pic.twitter.com/MmATpFmRm4
While Murray deserves credit for his performance, the Panthers' defensive line is the worst in the NFL. So what Murray did should have been expected, even for a backup guard.
Although Jenkins hasn't played his best football this season, one good game from Murray should not make him the starter over Jenkins. Throughout his career with the Bears, Jenkins has set the tone in many games by mauling defensive linemen.
Still, Murray's performance against the Panthers warrants him being the top guard option if Jenkins or Matt Pryor go down with an injury.
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