Leading up to Week 1, the entire football world was awaiting Chicago Bears rookie Caleb Williams and his debut. It was one of the most talked-about storylines in the league, and justifiably so. The no. 1 overall pick will continue to garner attention whether he asks for it or not.
In his first start against the Titans, Williams looked shaky. The pressure got to him. He rushed some throws and reads, and Williams even admitted as much, himself. That's a different story, but to hear Williams openly admit to his mistakes and recognize what he needs to fix is a positive sign for a young player.
The way he played almost the entire game wasn't pretty. Williams made a couple of key plays throughout the game, but it's safe to say the defense and special teams were the reason for the Bears' victory.
Despite going 1-0 to start the season, Williams' Offensive Rookie of the Year odds have already started to slip. Going into the year, Williams' odds were the best among all rookies at +135 per Draft Kings.
Now, Williams still has the best odds out of all rookies, but the odds did slip a bit after just one game.
Caleb Williams NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year odds after Week 1: +165
While the odds didn't slip all that much, the fact that they're trending downward isn't exactly a positive, especially with some other rookies looking quite electrifying such as Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who jumped from +2200 to +850 after only one game.
Caleb Williams has to perform better in Week 2 or his odds will continue to slip
Call this the most obvious take ever, but of course Williams' odds are going to fall yet again if he struggles in Week 2 against the Houston Texans.
Rookie mistakes are going to happen. Williams is going to struggle. But, all of the mesmerizing plays and ability we saw throughout training camp and the preseason are what fans will be waiting to see at some point. The expectations are high, as they should be.
The one thing Williams has going for him is the confidence and next-play mentality. Next to the ability and physical gifts, those are the most important things for a young quarterback. Being able to stay confident, move on and make adjustments is key, and I believe he is going to do just that heading into Week 2 versus Houston.
Keep in mind, Houston's defense is much-improved. Although the Texans gave up 27 points against Indianapolis, quarterback Anthony Richardson went just 9-for-19 passing, which no one seems to be talking about. Sure, he made some mind-boggling throws and tossed two touchdowns. But, Houston's defense still played him pretty well.
It's going to be a tough test for Williams.