Proof Luke Getsy Was Better Than He Got Credit For Last Season

The Chicago Bears offense wasn't anything special in 2022. They finished 23rd in scoring and 28th in total yards. Pretty much the same thing they've been for several years. However, hidden beneath the surface were signs that they might have something in offensive coordinator Luke Getsy. The first indication was his willingness to adjust the system when it clearly wasn't working. After a dud against Washington on October 13th, the Bears used the bye week to revamp the scheme, sprinkling in more elements from the Baltimore Ravens in hopes of unlocking Justin Fields' unique running ability.

It worked beautifully. Chicago scored 24 or more points over the next five games. Fields began to look like a budding star. Sadly injuries started piling up and they lost steam. Still, it was an encouraging sign. Analytics expert Warren Sharp discovered another overlooked quality Getsy showed. He was a master at scripting the opening drives of every game.

That speaks to a coach who can instruct players clearly and instill enough discipline for them to execute. Things seemed to fizzle out after going away from the script. That was less an indictment of Getsy and more a harsh reality of how lacking in talent the Bears are. Once it became more of a talent vs. talent game, the opponents often regained control.

The next step for Luke Getsy is obvious.

He must continue to evolve the system he pieced together last year while hoping GM Ryan Poles can fuel the depth chart with more capable bodies. A scheme is only as good as the players running it. Fields functioned well. It also seemed like Cole Kmet became a big focal point. If they can find a playmaking wide receiver and more dependable blocking up front, this offense may take a significant step forward in 2023. The best part is Getsy's approach is unlikely to change.

Nothing about his offense will be rigid. It will change depending on the talent he has available. In his mind, the mark of a good coach is being able to scheme your players' strengths. That mentality is rare for younger coaches. Matt Nagy had constant issues with being unable to adjust his system. Luke Getsy has no intention of falling into the same trap. He still has plenty of proving to do. His game management and creativity need work. Both should come with more experience.