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Last week’s acquisition of Julius Peppers was a big one for the Bears in many ways.
First, it brought in a good pass rusher, helping out what has been a huge problem for the Bears. Second, it will help take some pressure off the other players on the defensive line to rush the passer and come up with some plays that might not have been there last season. Finally, Chicago can count on Peppers making it hard for opposing offenses to game plan against the Bears defense game in and game out: What an advantage.
As we saw last season, the Bears struggled on defense against the pass; most of that had to do with not getting any pressure in the backfield. Starting defensive ends Adewale Ogunleye and Alex Brown just couldn’t get up the field and get to the quarterback. The line only accrued 24 sacks in 2009, and this doesn’t get it done when it comes to stopping an opponent’s passing game.
Peppers has the athletic ability to get up the field in a hurry and reach the quarterback. He has a history of being a devastating force when the quarterback drops back, and this is something that every offensive coordinator is going to have to worry about. The obvious solution for any offensive coordinator would be to double team Peppers, but using two blockers will open up the opportunity for another defender to make a play. This could be defensive tackle Tommie Harris’ chance to really shine.
Another thing that offensive coordinators will have to think about when drawing up a game plan against the Bears’ new defense is running plays to Peppers’ side. Peppers is not only good against the pass, but he is also solid against the run, so opposing offenses may not want to run too many plays to his side. Once again, this poses problems for opposing offenses.
Peppers presence should make everyone on defense better as well. Look for guys like Harris, Jarron Gilbert, and even Alex Brown to do much better on the defensive line while linebackers Brian Urlacher and Lance Briggs should be free enough to make more plays. The end result could be great for the Bears’ defense.
Sure, the Bears spent a lot of money on Peppers, but in the end, if he plays up to his contract and everyone else around him stays healthy, then the defense could have a much better year than it did in 2009. However, the Bears also need help beyond what Peppers will give them, including some additional depth at the safety position. They have to do something about both safety positions in order to ensure that they don’t have issues in the secondary.
Can anyone say Darren Sharper?
Read more Chicago Bears news on BleacherReport.com
