Packers: Randall Cobb loves playing against the Bears

Randall Cobb made yet another big play against the Chicago Bears in Week 1.

Randall Cobb has been a valuable contributor for this Green Bay Packers team since he was drafted back in 2011.

But when Green Bay matches up against their division rival Chicago Bears, Cobb’s game elevates to another level.

Over Cobb’s eight-year career, he has a few game-defining moments and has put up some great numbers.

Another big game for Cobb

This past Sunday’s matchup against the Bears was no different for Cobb. After falling down by three scores, Cobb was a trusted target for Aaron Rodgers and was a big part of the Packers’ victory. Cobb was able to pull in nine of his 10 targets, displaying why Rodgers has so much confidence in him.

Cobb totaled 142 yards and one huge 75-yard touchdown. He was able to fight his way open after not being open initially, and displayed his abilities in the open field. Once again, in a big game against their oldest rival, Cobb stepped up and was a huge contributor to a Packers victory.

Big moments

It’s not that Cobb only puts up big numbers when playing Chicago, he also has big, game-defining moments that have given the Packers the win.

His first moment came in Week 17 of 2013. Aaron Rodgers was making his return from a collarbone injury at Soldier Field, in a game that would decide the division champion. In the final minute of the game, Green Bay found themselves down 28-27, facing fourth down.

The ball was snapped and Rodgers was able to avoid being sacked by Julius Peppers, he set his feet and heaved the ball down the field to a wide open Cobb. It’s as if Cobb was forgotten about, as he ran right past the safety and reeled in the 46-yard touchdown pass. The Packers went on to win the game and go to the playoffs that year.

The most recent moment was just a few days ago. After a heroic performance by Rodgers to get Green Bay back into the game, the Packers found themselves with the ball and just over two minutes left in the game.

Cobb ran a drag across the field but was covered well. But like he’s done 100 times, Cobb redirected his route and Rodgers was able to find him over the middle. From that point on, it was a foot race to the end zone and turned into a game-winning 75-yard touchdown.

Just another huge moment for Cobb against the Bears.

Cobb’s career against Chicago

Cobb has played in 14 games against the Bears and has put up some fantastic numbers. He’s caught 79.2 percent of the passes thrown his way, nearly 10 percent higher than his career average. Cobb’s also been able to tally 855 receiving yards on 61 receptions, giving him an average of 14.02 yards per reception.

In addition to his two game-winning touchdowns, Cobb has added seven more over these 14 games, giving him a career total of nine against Chicago. It’s not just the big moments that he’s been a part of in these games, but he’s been one of the most consistent receivers for Rodgers.

Reasons for Cobb’s success

For a majority of Cobb’s career, the Bears pass defense has been in the lower half of the league overall. However he’s faced many other struggling defenses in his career, but continues to excel against Chicago.

In addition to Cobb, the Packers have had receivers such as Jordy Nelson, Davante Adams, Donald Driver, Greg Jennings and others lined up outside, while Cobb is in the slot. Those receivers can draw a lot of attention from defenders, creating mismatches for Cobb, and to his credit he’s clearly taken advantage.

Another big factor is the trust that Rodgers has with Cobb. These games against the Bears are always hard fought, must-win games and when the pressure is on, if you’re Aaron Rodgers, you’re going to go to the guys you trust. And Cobb has shown over and over just how reliable he is.

For whatever reason, sometimes players just love playing a certain opponent. Over his career, Cobb has shown us that he loves playing the Bears.

Here’s to hoping that he can keep breaking Chicago’s heart for the remainder of his career in Green Bay.