
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers travel to Chicago for a Sunday Night Football matchup against the Bears. Josiah Trotter will have an important role in slowing down one of the NFL’s most productive rushing attacks.
Chicago enters Week 9 averaging 150.8 rushing yards per game, ranking second in the NFL. Trotter’s ability to diagnose plays quickly and make tackles in space will be essential against the Bears’ backfield.
Chicago’s rushing attack presents a significant challenge for Tampa Bay’s linebackers. D’Andre Swift leads the Bears with 545 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns through eight games.
Trotter has quickly become one of Tampa Bay’s most productive defenders. He leads the Buccaneers with 68 total tackles through seven games, establishing himself as a major presence in the middle.
Swift’s vision and ability to make defenders miss will test Trotter’s tackling ability. The rookie must remain disciplined while filling running lanes and preventing Swift from reaching the second level.
Chicago also has another capable option in Kyle Monangai. The Bears’ two-back approach could create plenty of opportunities for Trotter to contribute against the run.
Trotter has already demonstrated an ability to produce against different offensive styles. He recorded 12 tackles against Pittsburgh and followed that performance with 10 against Carolina. His six tackles against Atlanta helped Tampa Bay complete its shutout.
Caleb Williams presents another challenge because of his mobility. Trotter will need to remain aware of the quarterback’s movement while maintaining his responsibilities in coverage. His ability to recognize developing plays could create opportunities for a pass breakup or turnover.
Trotter should have plenty of opportunities to make plays against Chicago’s productive rushing attack. His role in the middle of Tampa Bay’s defense makes him an important piece of the matchup.
Containing Swift and preventing Williams from extending plays will require disciplined linebacker play. My prediction has Trotter recording another productive performance while leading Tampa Bay’s defense in tackling opportunities.
Final Prediction: 9 tackles, 4 solo tackles, 5 assisted tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 0 sacks, 1 quarterback pressure, 0 quarterback hits, 0 interceptions, 1 pass defended, 0 forced fumbles.
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