Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams was not listed on the Bears’ injury report today after suffering an injury minor ankle injury in the closing moments of the Arizona Cardinals game. The decision to leave Williams in an unwinnable game while taking a beating is up to the coach Matt Eberflus scrutinized by both the media and fans. Although the decision is still highly questionable, Williams appears to be in good health and fully ready Sunday’s confrontation against the New England Patriots.
On Wednesday, Williams was asked if his recent play, physicality and constant hitting have affected his confidence. Williams’ response was intriguing.
November 3, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) reacts with head coach Matt Eberflus after the game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory credits: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
“Breaking my self-confidence?… eh, I guess it’s part of the game. That’s the defense’s job to bring me down. I also understand that at certain times I have to do better to get the ball out. Understand the situation. It could be a third down, and those are times when you might hold the ball longer, but if there’s something underneath that could give us a first down…get control,” Williams said.
In the Cardinals game, Williams was seen showing visible frustration for the first time in his young career. Although it has not yet developed into a full-fledged label, discussions about Williams’ body language and leadership qualities have begun. It is encouraging to come out immediately to address some of these concerns. At the very least, it shows that he understands the media. At best, it is sincere and the power is in its DNA.
Another topic discussed was Williams’ accuracy. Especially on deep passes, Williams’ accuracy was simply not there. On throws of 15 or more air yards, Williams completes only 28 percent of those passes. The off-target percentage is 55 percent and the yards per game on these attempts is 52.5. These stats don’t all pertain to Williams, as these are low percentage throws anyway. Schematically, there haven’t been many open receivers for Williams, but keeping the ball in play is important.
November 3, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Detailed view of the jersey of Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory credits: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
“I wouldn’t say anything mechanical. I think I’d just talk to him about the rhythm. The rhythm and timing of it. As he scans across, you know, the first guy works all the way through to the fourth or fifth guy. That’s just normal quarterbacking and progression. And just being cleaner with that, being more consistent with that. And if he does, it’s a good operation.” coach Matt Eberflus said of Williams’ accuracy and processing.
The good, bad and ugly have been put on tape for both Williams and the Chicago Bears offense, but the good news is that they are still a 4-4 team at this point. A win over the Patriots on Sunday, and the news cycle turns again. The most important thing is to stay the course, stay healthy and keep chopping.
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