Justin Fields continues to overperform in a lackluster Bears offense in frustrating loss to Dolphins
Justin Fields and the Chicago Bears fell to the Miami Dolphins on Sunday with a final score of 35-32. But even with the loss and a 3-6 record, fans in Chicago have to be thrilled.
Why should they be happy after a loss? Well, it looks like Fields has finally arrived. The second-year quarterback set a new NFL record on Sunday with 178 rushing yards, breaking a previous mark held by Michael Vick.
While he only threw for 123 yards, that included three touchdowns. He also added a fourth score on the ground.
Justin Fields broke Michael Vick’s NFL record for most rushing yards by a QB in a regular season game (178) 🔥 https://t.co/mPVIzwsSos
The Bears are still limited in terms of talent on offense. But after seeing the past few weeks of play, it appears that the quarterback position has its future in place.
Justin Fields is thriving as he finds an ideal role
Justin Fields struggled as a rookie, leading the Bears to find new leadership and move on from Matt Nagy. So far, that hasn't translated to fantastic team-wide success.
The 3-6 start shows that. Yet, Fields becoming more effective as a runner is adding a whole new element to the Chicago offense that will open things up for everyone else.
In the past four weeks, he has rushed for at least 60 yards in each game. He also has double-digit carries in three of those games, proving this is more than him just bailing on pass plays.
What about the fact that his single-game high in passing yards so far this year is 208? Should that be a concern?
While it is jarring, a recent move indicated the team believes he needs more help to succeed. That move was the trade for Chase Claypool, where Chicago sent a second-round pick to the Pittsburgh Steelers. That is a major move and one that shows the front office has faith in their young quarterback to deliver.
JUSTIN FIELDS https://t.co/9HaGqpEHKA
Justin Fields may not be as dynamic as someone like Michael Vick. But being able to run like this totally removes more intense criticism of his passing deficiencies.
Having a legitimate running back alongside him in the backfield is the next step the front office must focus on. Khalil Herbert had only 23 yards against Miami, while David Montgomery added 36 yards on 14 carries.
The Bears now have a blueprint for success in place. That was always the plan with their quarterback, but his new rushing abilities shift the focus towards crafting an offense that includes this dynamic factor.