JACKSONVILLE – In a weekly feature for the 2020 season, NFL Media Analyst Bucky Brooks breaks down the Jaguars' performance in a 41-17 loss to the Chicago Bears Sunday
BIG IMPRESSION
The Jaguars are a try-hard bunch with a collection of extra-effort guys committed to playing hard for 60 minutes. The collective energy from the group has enabled the Jaguars to keep games competitive against teams with more talent on their rosters. Against the Bears, the Jaguars' talent disparity and failed execution on both sides of the ball resulted in a 41-17 loss. Despite Head Coach Doug Marrone's encouragement and instruction, the Jaguars faltered in key situations after keeping the game close for the first half. The repeated mistakes, costly turnovers and poor matchups enabled the Bears to pull away in the second half and extend the Jaguars' losing streak to 14 games.
KEYS TO VICTORY
The Jaguars were able to keep the game under control for most of the first half until quarterback Mike Glennon's interception gave the Bears an opportunity to take the lead before halftime. The Bears scored a field goal after the takeaway and promptly drove the length of the field to open the second half with a touchdown. The "double-up" resulted in a 10-point swing and put pressure on the Jaguars to chase points with their first possession of the second half. After a quick "three-and-out" and another Bears touchdown drive, the Jaguars lost control of the game and failed to keep it competitive despite a solid start.
GLENNON'S GLORY
The veteran won the Jaguars' weekly quarterback competition against Gardner Minshew II but couldn't take his strong performance from practice to TIAA Bank Field on Sunday. Despite posting solid numbers against the Bears, Glennon couldn't keep the offense on schedule for most of the day. The veteran turned the ball over twice at critical points of the game and those miscues enabled the Bears to put the Jaguars away.
UNDER THE RADAR
The Jaguars might have discovered another hidden gem in their running-back room with Dare Ogunbowale's breakout performance against the Bears. The second-year pro rushed for 71 yards on 14 carries while displaying outstanding stop-start quickness and burst with the rock in his hands. Ogunbowale 25-yard burst showcased his explosiveness and big-play potential as a runner. Given an opportunity to showcase his skills as a substitute starter, the second-year pro might have earned the respect and trust of the team as a quality backup/rotational player.
OFFENSIVELY SPEAKING
Offensive coordinator Jay Gruden attempted to put together a plan that enabled the Jaguars to control the clock and minimize total possessions while also mixing in a few big-play opportunities. Through the first 30 minutes, the strategy worked well with the Jaguars going toe to toe with the Bears in a competitive contest. The tactic went off the rails after a few turnovers sandwiched a three-and-out during three straight possessions in the second and third quarters. With the Bears cashing in on each of those possessions (17 points), Gruden couldn't come up with an alternative plan that enabled the team to light up the scoreboard at a frantic pace in catch-up mode.
DEFENSIVELY SPEAKING
Defensive coordinator Todd Wash continues to struggle to push the right buttons with this defense. He has been forced to play with his hands tied behind his back with injuries and inexperience limiting his ability to attack opponents with a diverse game plan. Against the Bears, Wash couldn't find the right combination of personnel and tactics to disrupt the rhythm of the offense. Bears quarterback Mitchell Trubisky had an easy time throwing the ball around the yard, and his efficient passing complemented a strong running game sparked by running back David Montgomery. Considering the Bears totaled 391 yards of offense and 41 points, it is hard to give Wash and Co. a passing grade for this week's effort.
