3 Justin Fields plays that prove Bears wasted money on Andy Dalton

The Bears essentially signed Andy Dalton as a one-year rental, but was that even necessary given they already had Nick Foles and Justin Fields appears to be starter-ready?

Sure, I am jumping the gun after just one preseason game of action, but if anything Fields proved he’s worthy of being thrown in the NFL fire come Week 1. Fields finished his first game completing 14-of-20 passes for 142 yards and one score, all while rushing for 33 yards and another touchdown on eight carries.

What makes Fields’ performance most impressive was how it started. Which, while technically not a play, is the first reason we must point to. Matt Nagy and the Bears offensive staff is still figuring out how best to use Fields’ mobility to their advantage, and they failed to do so early. Fields even looked stationary at times in the pocket, and was left for dead by a receiving core that failed to get much separation.

Bears: Justin Fields’ second half is a glimmer of hope

Fields’ second half, however, featured a mobile quarterback making plays through the air and with his feet. At one time, the Ohio State product completed seven consecutive passes.

Even at the end of a tough first half, Fields making plays with his legs is what forced the Miami defense’s hand.

But it was Fields’ first touchdown — a short scamper for the Chicago score — which truly showed what a threat he can be on the ground. This, by all accounts, was the moment Bears fans realized they have something special, and the second play that proves he should at the very least start over Dalton.