Analyzing the Bears through 6 games

One-third of the way through the 18-week season — the Bears play 17 games and have one bye — Sun-Times reporter Patrick Finley issues a report card:

What is Matt Eberflus’ grade through 6 games?

C. The Bears have yet to fracture despite a disparity in performance between the defense, which is competent, and the offense, which is not. But their main goal this season is to develop Justin Fields into a franchise quarterback, and they’re stuck in the mud on that front.

Is Justin Fields getting better or worse?

The numbers say he’s getting worse. Fields is averaging fewer passing yards per game and has a lower passer rating this season than last. His sack rate and interception rate are higher this season than last. That’s a far cry from the leap he needs to make. The Bears, however, are treating this season as a 17-game test, and quarterback growth is rarely incremental. If Fields can figure it out — and if his coaches can find the best way to use him — those numbers can flip quickly.

What is one change the Bears must make offensively?

The Bears need to find a way to protect Fields better schematically. That means more screens and quick throws, play-action passes that get him moving and cut the field in half and — yes — handing the ball off on some obvious passing downs. The only thing worse for the franchise than Fields struggling is him sitting injured on the sideline. They must find a way to get him to the end of the season intact.

What is the biggest problem facing the Bears overall?

The same problem facing them in March and August — and one they’ll still have to deal with in November, December and January: They lack the offensive playmakers to evaluate Fields properly. Velus Jones’ fumbles aren’t making the team’s decision to pass on drafting a receiver in Round 2 look any smarter.

What has been the best surprise?

This season is about finding players who can star on the next good Bears team. Running back Khalil Herbert has proved he can start in 2023 and beyond.

What has been the biggest disappointment?

Defensive end Robert Quinn has one sack after setting a franchise record with 18½ last season. Quinn is one of the few valuable pieces the Bears could trade by the deadline Nov. 1, but they need him to show signs of life first.

What is your revised prediction of the Bears’ final record?

Still 6-11. If we’ve learned anything about the NFL this season, it’s that — short of a half-dozen teams — anyone can be mediocre in a given week.