When the Bears take the field, all eyes are on quarterback Caleb Williams. This season, the Bears boast an impressive offense. They rank eighth in points per game at 25.8 and fourth in total yards with 373.8 per game. They’re second in rushing yards, averaging 146.6 and 13th in passing with 227.2 yards. Remarkably, they’ve created a league-high 82 explosive plays so far, showcasing their ability to strike quickly.
Williams, the first pick in the 2024 draft, has thrown for 2,329 yards, with 13 touchdowns and four interceptions. His passer rating is 89.9. He’s also rushed for 272 yards and three touchdowns, showing his versatility. Unlike last year, where he was sacked 68 times over 17 games, he’s been brought down only 16 times this year.
Coach Johnson sees a lot of potential in Williams. “Players either improve or regress,” he notes. “I see him getting better consistently.” Williams’ ability to absorb coaching and apply it has impressed his team. Johnson added that with more practice, Williams will continue to grow, playing faster and with more anticipation.
Williams shines in clutch moments, having led game-winning drives in five out of his last seven games. His favorite target? Second-year receiver Rome Odunze, who has 39 catches and ranks among six NFL receivers with over 600 yards and six touchdowns.
Williams has also handled blitzes well this season, throwing eight touchdowns with no interceptions under pressure. This will be critical as he faces a Steelers defense that blitzes on 33.2% of plays, one of the highest rates in the league. The Steelers’ defense, while aggressive, allows the most passing yards per game, sitting at 261.7.
Key players on the Steelers’ defense include edge rushers T.J. Watt, Alex Highsmith, and Nick Herbig, all known for their quick starts off the line. Johnson emphasizes the challenge they present, saying, “You need creativity in play design to counter these guys effectively.”
The Bears’ strong run game could be crucial against Pittsburgh’s pass rush. They’ve rushed for at least 140 yards in five of their last six games, a notable shift from their earlier struggles this season. Currently, they lead the NFL in both total yards and rushing yards per game since Week 6.
D’Andre Swift is leading the Bears in rushing with 634 yards and four touchdowns, while rookie Kyle Monangai has also made an impact with 413 yards and three touchdowns.
A crucial matchup to watch is Bears right tackle Darnell Wright against Steelers star T.J. Watt. Wright is having a standout season since being drafted last year. Watt, a seven-time Pro Bowler, is a menace on defense, known for his speed and ability to create turnovers. He matched Michael Strahan’s record for most sacks in a single season and is one of the fastest players to reach 100 sacks.
Offensive coordinator Declan Doyle highlights Watt’s impact: “He plays hard and gets the ball out. You have to account for him on every snap.”
As the Bears gear up to face this fierce competition, their growth and strategies will be key in dictating the outcome. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely.
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