Chicago Bears: Caleb Williams Struggles Under Pressure
The Chicago Bears’ loss to the Houston Texans on Sunday Night was a harsh reminder of the team’s substandard offensive line and the elite potential of their defense. Two key takeaways emerged from the game: the Texans’ pass rush overwhelmed the Bears’ offensive line, and the defense has the makings of an elite unit.
The Texans’ pass rush, led by Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson, Jr., was relentless, sacking Bears QB Caleb Williams seven times and intercepting him twice. The duo caved in on the Bears’ beleaguered offensive line, particularly right tackle Darnell Wright and right guard Nate Davis. According to Pro Football Focus, both were credited with giving up three sacks and nine pressures.
As a result, Williams, the University of Southern California product, did not have enough time in the pocket to target his receivers. He ended up going 23 of 37 for 174 yards and two interceptions. The running game was also stifled, as the offensive line failed to generate lanes for backs D’Andre Swift, Khalil Herbert, and Travis Homer.
The Bears’ Defense Shines
While the offense struggled, the Bears’ defense was a different story. They held the Texans’ high-flying attack, led by star quarterback CJ Stroud and his trio of talented receivers, Nico Collins, Stefon Diggs, and Tank Dell, to just three second-half points. Stroud went 23 for 36 for 260 yards and a touchdown, down from a week ago when he threw two touchdowns against the Indianapolis Colts.
Linebacker Jack Sanborn, safety Jaquan Brisker, and cornerback Kyler Gordon were flying all over the field, bottling up Collins and keeping Diggs and Dell in check for the most part.
Caleb Williams Speaks Out
After the game, Williams acknowledged the team’s struggles, saying, "We didn’t execute the way we needed to." He added, "We’re going to keep getting better. I’m a young guy, and it’s a long season."
However, if the team doesn’t fix its leaky pass protection, the season could get even longer, and their talented rookie signal caller might get hurt. God willing, he doesn’t.
Conclusion
The Chicago Bears’ loss to the Houston Texans was a harsh reminder of the team’s weaknesses and strengths. While the offense struggled under pressure, the defense showed promising signs of being an elite unit. As the season progresses, it will be crucial for the Bears to address their pass protection issues and find ways to get their offense moving.
FAQs
Q: What was the biggest issue for the Bears’ offense in the game against the Texans?
A: The Bears’ offensive line struggled to protect quarterback Caleb Williams, allowing seven sacks and numerous pressures.
Q: Who led the Texans’ pass rush in the game?
A: Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson, Jr. were the leaders of the Texans’ pass rush, sacking Caleb Williams seven times and intercepting him twice.
Q: How did the Bears’ defense perform against the Texans’ high-flying attack?
A: The Bears’ defense held the Texans’ offense to just three second-half points, with linebacker Jack Sanborn, safety Jaquan Brisker, and cornerback Kyler Gordon making key plays.
Q: What did Caleb Williams say about the team’s performance after the game?
A: Williams acknowledged the team’s struggles, saying, "We didn’t execute the way we needed to," and added, "We’re going to keep getting better. I’m a young guy, and it’s a long season."
