In Week 16, the Chicago Bears pulled off a seemingly improbable win, defeating the Green Bay Packers 22-16 with the entire NFL world watching.
After trailing 16-6 with five minutes left, Chicago kicked a field goal, recovered an onside kick, and quickly scored a touchdown to force overtime. In the extra period, the Bears scored a walk-off touchdown, strengthening their NFC North lead.
The comeback wouldn’t have been possible without some elite late-game play from Caleb Williams. The young quarterback was clutch down the stretch, and everyone is taking notice. On Sunday, former NFL quarterback Matt Ryan said Williams has stepped up in the biggest moments all season long, going on to say, “that’s the one thing I don’t think you can coach. I think that is in your DNA; you’re hard-wired to play that way.”
"This is what Caleb Williams has been all year, clutch in the biggest moments of the game."
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) December 21, 2025
- @M_Ryan02 pic.twitter.com/sDSfwtrTUE
Matt Ryan praises Caleb Williams for clutch gene
The former quarterback went on to talk about the specifics of the game, calling the game-winning throw perfect. Ryan also pointed out that Williams’ reaction reflected the high expectations he has for himself. In the end, Ryan said, “There is something brewing in Chicago,” pointing to the Bears shaking up their building, and subsequently, the NFC North.
Ryan highlighted what everyone is starting to notice: Caleb Williams is clutch, and the Bears are building something special. The best thing about this season is that it’s only year one with Ben Johnson and year two with Williams. Despite the duo just getting started, Chicago is 11-4 after 16 weeks, on pace to win the NFC North, and is viewed as a serious player in the NFC.
Even with this success, the Bears have some obvious areas for growth, including with Williams and the passing game. Ben Johnson mentioned earlier that Chicago was winning despite the passing attack, and the passing game has had some really high moments since then.
Read more: Ben Johnson beautifully says what every Bears fan has noticed with 2025 team
It’s safe to assume that growth will continue to happen, and as it does, the Bears will evolve into a more dangerous team. Fortunately, Chicago is already pretty good and hopes to put together a strong postseason run.