Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams had been on a roll before the team’s bye week. It seemed like everything was finally coming together for the No. 1 overall pick in the NFL draft. However, in recent weeks, things have taken a turn for the worse, and it’s becoming a major concern for the Bears as they enter the toughest part of their schedule.
In their recent game against the New England Patriots, Williams was sacked nine times and only managed to pass for 120 yards. The Bears struggled on third down, going 1 for 14, and finished with a total of just 142 yards. Williams acknowledged the team’s need to improve in situational plays and avoid negative plays, stating that a team that executes well in these areas is tough to beat.
The Bears (4-5) have now suffered three consecutive losses and failed to score a touchdown in back-to-back games for the first time since 2004. They have only scored a total of 27 points during this losing streak.
During a post-game media availability, Bears head coach Matt Eberflus was asked about his accountability for the team’s performance, to which he replied, “the whole thing.” He emphasized that as the head coach, it is his responsibility to oversee the entire operation, including offense, defense, and special teams.
When it comes to breaking out of their offensive slump, Eberflus stated that everything is on the table, including having someone other than offensive coordinator Shane Waldron call the plays. He stressed the need to take a hard look at everything they are doing and make necessary changes.
Former Chicago Bears coach Dave Wannstedt suggested that Eberflus should sit in on the team’s offensive meetings this week to see where changes can be made. He also suggested that the offense needs to change, whether it’s Waldron calling the plays or someone else. Wannstedt believes that without any changes, the team can expect the same results.
The focus is now on Williams, who will turn 23 on November 18th. He has now lost to both quarterbacks who were taken right after him in the draft. The Bears lost to Washington 18-15 on October 27th on a last-second Hail Mary by Jayden Daniels, and then to New England, who only has three wins this season, with Drake Maye at the helm.
Before their current losing streak, the Bears had won three games in a row. During this stretch, Williams completed 74% of his passes for 687 yards and seven touchdowns with only one interception. The highlight of this run was Williams throwing for four touchdowns in a 35-16 victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
However, things took a turn for the worse after the Bears’ bye week, which came after their win against the Jaguars in London on October 13th. It seems like the team has lost their way somewhere over the Atlantic Ocean.
Tight end Cole Kmet believes that the offense needs to do a better job of sustaining drives, and that will lead to more efficiency and success. In the past three games, Williams has completed only 50.5% of his passes for 468 yards, with no touchdowns and no interceptions. He has also been sacked 18 times during this losing streak.
Eberflus believes that Williams is a strong individual who has been through adversity and knows how to overcome it. He urged the team to come together and support each other during this tough time.
The Bears are also facing a rash of injuries, especially on their offensive line. They were without three key players in their recent game, and two others were unable to play due to injuries. This has only added to the challenges the team is facing.
As they enter the most difficult part of their schedule, the Bears will face the Green Bay Packers at home next Sunday. They also have two games against the Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings, as well as a trip to San Francisco and a home game against the Seattle Seahawks.
Williams acknowledged the need for the offense to find their rhythm as they face tough opponents in the coming weeks. He knows that the team needs to improve quickly to have a chance against teams like the Packers, Lions, and Vikings.
The Chicago Bears are facing a tough road ahead, but they have the talent and determination to turn things around. With the support of their coach, teammates, and fans, they can overcome this rough patch and come out stronger. The Bears have shown
