Detroit Lions: 3 ways to shut down Mitchell Trubisky

Strategy #1

Detroit can use its plethora of defensive backs to apply air-tight coverage against what seems to be a very marginal Bears receiving corps. The strategy will all but ensure that Trubisky checks down to an aging Jimmy Graham or unproven Cole Kmet at tight end.

Last season, the former North Carolina quarterback seemed to regress from his 2018 campaign and ranked third in the NFL behind only Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady for the most completions under five yards.

By forcing Trubisky to check down regularly, the Lions should be able to keep the score within reach and provide the defense with ample time to rest as the clock continues ticking.

Strategy #2

The Detroit Lions’ most significant challenge of the game will be forcing Trubisky to beat them from the pocket with his arm.

Detroit’s defensive line seems to be a little thin, as the team failed to acquire a suitable edge rusher to complement Trey Flowers during the offseason. Since 2018, the Bears quarterback has the fifth-most rushing yards (614) in the league at his position.

Frequently, the majority of Trubisky’s success as a passer comes while rolling out or evading the rush from within the pocket. When forced to improvise and use his legs, he seems to be at his best.

According to Pro Football Focus, he sits behind only Ryan Fitzpatrick as a quarterback with the lowest percentage of accurate passes since 2016 at just 56 percent.