While expectations were higher in the Windy City when Ben Johnson took over as head coach for the Chicago Bears, not many were expecting them to be leading the NFC North at 7-3 heading into Week 12. It hasn’t been the prettiest at times, but Chicago has gotten it done.
While they’ve been able to keep things close with the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 12, surprisingly, second-year wide receiver Rome Odunze has not been a factor whatsoever. Let’s take a look at the Bears’ leading receiver’s slow start.
What Happened to Chicago Bears WR Rome Odunze?
No, Odunze is not hurt; however, the young wideout had not been targeted until late in the first half. After being an afterthought through the first 25 minutes of the game, quarterback Caleb Williams finally looked his way for a 23-yard connection.
Odunze has been building off a productive rookie campaign, catching 39 passes for 600 yards and six touchdowns. However, there is a significant gap between his receptions and 75 targets as the Bears’ offense has struggled at times this season.
After a tough first half, it appears that Johnson recognized the issue and decided to increase Odunze’s involvement in the second half. On Chicago’s opening drive of the third quarter, Williams targeted Odunze on the first two plays, which were completed for 17 and 14 yards.
The drive would end with a 25-yard touchdown to D.J. Moore as the Bears would retake the lead 24-21. With Chicago and Pittsburgh going back and forth, Odunze should get plenty of opportunities.
Chicago has been middle of the road this season when it comes to its offensive performance. According to PFSN’s Offense Impact metric, the Bears rank 12th in the league with a score of 77.6. While he’s had some big games this season, Odunze has had a fair season, scoring a 79.5 in PFSN’s WR Impact metric, which makes him the 22nd overall wideout.
The second-year wide receiver clearly can affect a football game as he fueled the Bears’ first touchdown in the second half. If Chicago can continue to find ways to keep Odunze involved, Williams and the offense should be able to keep moving down the field.
Despite some struggles throughout the year, the Bears still sit atop the NFC North, and wins against teams like Pittsburgh will go a long way to keep them up there. Will they be able to maintain the positive momentum and secure a win to keep their surprising hopes for an NFC North title alive?
Editor’s Note: This is a breaking news story and will be updated throughout the day as more information becomes available.Â
