People have tried to stay patient with Caleb Williams, knowing the young quarterback was poorly handled by the previous Chicago Bears coaching staff last season. Undoing that damage would take time. Even so, it is difficult for many not to feel nervous about where his development is. After starting the season with seven touchdowns and one interception, he has two touchdowns and three interceptions over the previous three games. Williams hasn't been a decisive presence on the field for weeks, which is not what you want to say about the quarterback you took #1 overall.
Some people might raise eyebrows at the idea that a game against the Cincinnati Bengals carries such importance. They're an AFC team. It's on the road and is unlikely to significantly impact the Bears' playoff hopes either way. While that is true to an extent, one person should be very concerned about how this game goes. That is Williams. Cincinnati has the worst defense in football. They are 30th against the pass and 32nd in points allowed. Their best player, pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, is also unlikely to play. Everything lines up for Williams to have a big day in this game.
So imagine if he doesn't. What happens if he struggles? There is a strong possibility that such a scenario could lead to some uncomfortable conversations inside Halas Hall.
Caleb Williams won't get a better setup for success this season.
Cincinnati is being served up on a silver platter. Any competent quarterback would take full advantage. Unless the offensive line has a complete meltdown, which is unlikely, this is a game Caleb Williams should excel in. He doesn't have to put up 400 yards and four touchdowns, but it's not unreasonable to expect at least 250 yards and a couple of scores. If he can't produce even that much, it will confirm many of the growing rumors about what is happening in that building.
People around the NFL have said it feels like Williams is resisting the instructions of head coach Ben Johnson. He's still trying to play a similar style to his USC days, and it's led to frustration from Johnson and others. Many have wondered how much patience the coach would have with his young quarterback, given his preference for playing on time and in rhythm. Another erratic afternoon against a defense like the Bengals' might shift things in a direction Williams doesn't want them to go.
