Despite the dysfunction surrounding the Chicago Bears this season, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams continues to be the reason for optimism.
The Lions raced out to a 13-0 lead over the Bears during the first quarter and never looked back. The final score was 34-17 in a game that Williams put on an impressive performance in front of potentially his next head coach.
On the day, Williams completed 26 of 40 passes for a total of 334 yards and 2 touchdowns. Williams was only sacked twice by an injury-riddled defensive line for the Lions but Sunday's performance was another reminder that the Bears do not have a question at the quarterback position.
In fact, after his performance on Sunday, Williams is knocking on the door for being in the Top 5 in terms of most passing yards in a single season by a Bears' quarterback.
Chicago Bears All-Time Single Season Passing Yardage Leaders:
— Bill Zimmerman (@BillTZimmerman) December 22, 2024
1. Erik Kramer, 1995: 3838
2. Jay Cutler, 2014: 3812
3. Jay Cutler, 2009: 3666
4. Jay Cutler, 2015: 3659
5. Jay Cutler, 2010: 3274
6. Caleb Williams, 2024: 3269
The narratives that have been making the rounds regarding Williams in recent weeks would make anyone who doesn't watch Bears' games believe that the rookie quarterback has been a massive failure in his first season. That couldn't be more further from the truth. Williams is having the best rookie season the Bears have ever seen from a quarterback.
Sunday was just further proof that Williams will be the reason why head coach candidates are lining up this offseason to interview for the Bears' head coach opening. After Sunday's game, the Bears once again shouldn't overthink their search.
Lions' offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is the clear answer to be the next head coach of the Bears.
We told ya he's an athlete 😉#ProBowlVote | @JaredGoff16 | @samlaporta pic.twitter.com/Fx4NZvBrGE
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) December 22, 2024
If Sunday was an audition for Johnson, not that he needs one, he passed with flying colors. The creativity that Johnson has displayed week after week is something that the Bears' offense has been allergic to. If Johnson does become the next head coach of the Bears, there will need to be a dedication to building the offensive line in a way that allows for that creativity to flourish. That creativity will be the key to ensuring that Williams' true potential is fully unlocked.