On The Beat: 5 questions with Chicago writer Jeff Dickerson - Losing Mack would be 'catastrophic' for Bears

Every week, we go deep on the Patriots’ next opponent with our “5 questions…” feature where we check in with a writer who covers New England’s next opponent. For this week’s game against Chicago, we talk with Bears’ beat writer Jeff Dickerson, who covers the team for ESPN. Check him out on Twitter here.

1. How important has Khalil Mack been to the Chicago defense, and what sort of domino effect would it have if he was limited with that ankle issue?

Mack is the most important player on the Bears defense. Losing him for any extended period of time would be catastrophic. I still expect him to be active against New England, but his right ankle will not be 100 percent. That’s an unfortunate development for the Bears. Chicago  doesn’t have anyone else that can rush the passer like Mack can. The Bears are in big trouble if Tom Brady has all day to set up in the pocket.

2. How has Mitchell Trubisky done when it comes to growth in his second season?

Overall, Trubisky is having a decent second season. The last two games, in particular (nine touchdown passes, one interception) have been very good. Trubisky still makes mistakes. At times, he’s too flighty in the pocket. His footwork is sometimes out of whack, which causes throws to sail off the mark. But big picture: the Bears are happy with Trubisky’s development. He has all the tools to be an above average quarterback in the league.

3. The Patriots kick coverage units have struggled this year — is this an area where the Bears can take advantage?

Sure. Tarik Cohen is a dangerous return man. The Patriots should avoid him. Cohen is the most dynamic Bear player with the ball in the open field since Devin Hester. Now, that’s saying something!

4. Is there an under-the-radar guy we’re not talking about who could play a big role Sunday?

Trey Burton. The Bears paid Burton (formerly the Eagles’ third string tight end) $22 million guaranteed to play a sizable role offense. So far, Burton has just 15 catches for 199 yards and three touchdown. Decent numbers, but not great. I expect the Bears to target Burton more frequently going forward. I can see Burton being one of Trubisky’s main targets on Sunday.

5. Chicago wins Sunday if…

Mack tapes up the right ankle and sacks Brady three times. And Trubisky plays a relatively turnover-free game.

Jeff’s Pick: Patriots 27, Bears 21 — I feel like the Bears are catching the Patriots at the wrong time. New England’s offense looks scary.