The Patriots visit the Chicago Bears today in a game that they could win but will need to play well in all three phases.

When planning for a team like Chicago, taking advantage of their pass rush on offense is key. The other thing is, making sure that you utilize multiple formations and compressed alignments to create space for the receivers. Finally, running Drake Maye today by design maybe helpful. Jayden Daniels did a nice job running the ball two weeks ago. 

Defensively, containing Caleb Williams and matching up to their skill group will be the focal point this week. 

Here is this week’s offensive and defensive game plan. 

Offense

1. Run off-tackle and outside: The Bears are stout inside but I would run outside and off-tackle to soften up their pass rushers. The Patriots need to get the ground game going but they also need to slow down Chicago’s potent pass rush. Outside zone, crack toss and zone toss are three ways to attack outside but also give the backs a chance to cut it back.

2. Quick passing game: Get the ball out quick. The Patriots need to protect Drake Maye more. Running the football is one way but also getting the ball out quick is another. Utilize the three step passing game early to get him in rhythm and to take care of him.

3. Gadgets and specials: The Patriots need more gadgets. Whether it is trick plays or even running reverses and then running a pass or screen off the action, anything would help. Offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt needs to spice up the offense. This is a good week to do it against a Bears team that plays a 40 front and plays up the field. Take advantage of it!

4. Attack the middle of the field in the passing game: Their corners are very good. The Patriots need to attack Chicago’s safeties in the passing game. Their corners are good but the Patriots will need to be more selective throwing outside. Middle flood concepts and clearing out for underneath routes will be an effective way to throw the ball in this game. 

Defense

1. Sugar rush Williams: The Patriots will have to sugar rush Williams in this game. The defensive ends and edge guys can’t get up the field and give him running lanes to extend plays. The Patriots must slow play on the outside on passing downs and bring inside pressure.

2. Bring five and six consistently: I would get after Williams. He’s banged up and he has had a tendency to hold the ball, especially in recent weeks. Inside pressure could be an effective way to attack him. The Bears interior offensive line has struggled in pass pro. Attack them! 

3. Bracket Moore and Kmet in certain situations: I would double D.J Moore and tight end Cole Kmet in certain situations. Especially in the red zone. Yes, I know they have Keenan Allen and I know he can be tough inside the 20 but Moore and Kmet are more dangerous and I wouldn’t let them beat me in those situations. 

4. Sim pressure and disguising: Show Williams as much as possible. Walk up and plug gaps. Go and drop. Rotate and pre and post snap in the secondary. I would do as much as possible to confuse the rookie quarterback and either make him hold onto the ball or try to force it in an area that appears open but isn’t.