Recovering from a season-ending contest is not for the faint of heart, especially when the stakes are so high. For the Chicago Bears, they were just one more game away from a Super Bowl appearance.
And, as fate would have it, this NFC Divisional Round matchup came down to the wire -- overtime, in fact. Would we have it any other way after the season that was?
This season, as a whole, was magical. It was unforeseen. It will be remembered forever. And one of the main reasons why Bears fans have so much hope going forward is, obviously, the play of quarterback Caleb Williams.
After the loss to the Rams, safety Kevin Byard noted as much:
"Our fans have been getting their money's worth, for sure. Special play after special play. Caleb has ignited this city with his bravado and things he's been able to do this year."
Kevin Byard sheds light on a Bears truth that this franchise has never seen before
Taking a step back and really thinking about this past season, it was unlike anything this franchise has ever experienced. Sure, the electricity of the 1985 Super Bowl team is unmatched. But this is different.
The buzz around Caleb Williams is a different kind. For the first time ever, the Bears have a quarterback who is actually ready and capable for those big moments. With the game on the line, the Bears have a quarterback whom the fan base has the utmost faith in.
He proved, time and time again, just how ready for those moments he was. And he came through more often than not.
The city of Chicago has seen quarterbacks with "bravado." Just take a look back at Jim McMahon.
They've seen quarterbacks who "can make all of the throws." Look back at Jay Cutler -- but don't look too close.
Chicago has seen quarterbacks with electrifying athleticism. You don't have to look far back to remember Justin Fields.
But, to have a quarterback that can put all of those things together and take on the label of being a true franchise quarterback? No, the Bears have never had that -- until now.
Read more: Caleb Williams sent one final message to those who doubted from the beginning
Byard's words ring true throughout the city and fan base, worldwide. Williams has captured the fan base's hearts and attention. He's given the Bears something they've never had, in addition to a long-term quarterback solution, and that's hope.