Caleb Williams’ remarkable performance in London has sparked renewed optimism for the Chicago Bears, who now sit at 4-2 following a decisive 35-16 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars. The rookie quarterback showcased his immense potential by throwing a career-high four touchdown passes, transforming what had been a sluggish start into a display of poise and skill that suggests the franchise may have finally found its star under center.
In the early stages of the game, Williams faced challenges that might have flustered less experienced players. The Bears’ offense began with two three-and-outs and an interception on a poorly thrown pass intended for DJ Moore. However, rather than allowing these setbacks to derail him, Williams demonstrated a level of resilience and leadership that is often expected of a No. 1 overall pick but not always delivered.
“You just got to keep going,” he reflected in a post-game interview with NFL Network’s Stacey Dales. “There’s going to be times throughout the game where there are plays that you don’t like, plays that you messed up on. But to keep going, have a positive mindset, and stay a constant communicator throughout the whole team is crucial.”
After the early hiccups, Williams settled into the game with impressive efficiency. His ability to execute quick passes proved pivotal, as he completed 13 of 14 attempts for 111 yards and three touchdowns, successfully converting nine first downs in the process. Overall, Williams finished the day with 23 completions on 29 attempts for 226 yards and four touchdowns, boasting a dropback success rate of 58.8% and a +12.5% completion percentage over expected, according to Next Gen Stats.
What truly distinguished Williams’ performance was his capacity to make plays under pressure. The Jaguars’ defense struggled to contain him as he deftly evaded rushers and extended plays, often scrambling out of the pocket to either deliver crucial throws or gain valuable yardage with his legs. His 56 rushing yards added another dimension to his game, making him a dual threat that defenses must account for.
Williams’ statistics place him among an elite group of rookie quarterbacks. He became only the fourth rookie QB in NFL history to throw for four or more touchdown passes while also rushing for over 50 yards in a single game. Notably, he is also the first quarterback selected No. 1 overall in the common draft era to win four of his first six career starts—a feat that highlights his immediate impact on the Bears’ fortunes.
Despite the accolades, Williams remained grounded, emphasizing the need for continual improvement. “It felt great,” he acknowledged, but added, “I can’t turn the ball over like that on a wide-open touchdown to DJ. There are a few things throughout the game that I need to be better at.” His willingness to acknowledge areas for growth is a promising sign for a player who is still early in his professional career. “I think the progress that we’ve had is going to keep growing,” he stated confidently.
The Bears’ offensive success was not solely due to Williams’ passing. Chicago’s offense put together four consecutive touchdown drives, a sequence that allowed the defense to focus on attacking the Jaguars’ offense. With a comfortable lead, the Bears’ defense was able to capitalize on the pressure, forcing the Jaguars into desperate situations. As the game progressed, Williams even had the luxury of watching from the sideline as backup quarterback Tyson Bagent closed out the game, a testament to the commanding lead his performance had established.
As the Bears enter their bye week, this victory provides not only a boost in the standings but also a sense of hope for the franchise’s future. The combination of Williams’ talent and the leadership surrounding him suggests that the team is building something special. Looking ahead, the Bears will face a challenge against the Washington Commanders, led by fellow rookie Jayden Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick. This matchup could set the stage for an exciting rivalry in the Offensive Rookie of the Year race.
The success in London symbolizes a turning point for the Bears, who have long struggled to find stability at the quarterback position. With Caleb Williams at the helm, there’s a renewed sense of purpose and optimism. As he continues to develop and mature, the Bears and their fans can look forward to a future filled with potential and promise. The journey is just beginning, but with a performance like this, the Bears are positioned to make a statement in the weeks to come.
