Like the running backs, receivers were of minimal impact in a blowout loss, although several were able to at least make some contributions even if they were lost in the blizzard of negatives.
Alshon Jeffery did a superb job of working free for a back-shoulder throw in the end zone for the Bears’ second-quarter touchdown. “We did a great job, but [offensive coordinator] Adam Gase and [wide receivers coach] Mike Groh did a great job calling the play and Jay [Cutler] made a great throw.”
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But Jeffery was generally shackled by cornerback Xavier Rhodes before the latter injured an ankle and had to leave. After Rhodes left, Jeffery was able to make his catch, his only one of the five balls thrown to him. Jeffery himself had to leave for a time in the third quarter with hamstring tightness, returned but his status for next Sunday in Tampa Bay remains to play out this week.
Zach Miller continued his strong play in the wake of Martellus Bennett’s difficulties, catching all six passes thrown to him by Cutler for 57 yards, although three accounting for 38 yards came on the Bears’ meaningless final possession in the fourth quarter.
Eddie Royal’s return to the field after his knee injury has seen some production but limited major impact. Royal caught 5 of his 6 passes but for just 31 yards, no catch for more than 10 yards.
Moon's Grade: C+