Bears Struggle to Protect Caleb Williams Despite Talent

Salekin

Editor & Writer

The Bears need to protect Williams the way the Texans protected Stroud

In a stunning display of defensive dominance, the Houston Texans’ defense relentlessly pursued Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, making the field feel more like a town hall meeting than a football game. The top draft pick was sacked a staggering seven times, the most any quarterback has endured this season. Next Gen Stats reveal the Texans blitzed Williams 20 times on passing plays and pressured him on an astonishing 36 out of 37 dropbacks, a relentless onslaught reminiscent of SUVs lining up for every snap.

Bears’ known rate

The eventual 19-13 loss was just a repeat of an all-too-familiar scene for Chicago. A struggling quarterback, a defense struggling to make ends meet, and problems with little hope of a quick fix – all together paint a picture of disappointment. Along with everything… there was physical pain. Asked about her opponent’s attack after the match, Williams said, “I’ve had quite a few injuries today. My body is really sore. “It’s time for me to head to the ice bath and get ready for the upcoming game.”

Worrying hours at the start of the season

The Bears’ defensive performance is a legitimate cause for concern early in the season. At the same time, it’s premature to panic after just two games, a shift in their strategic approach is clearly required to rectify their vulnerabilities. They might be able to exploit some of those issues against a team like the Tennessee Titans, who overpowered the Bears’ offensive line in their Week 1 matchup. But none of that can be overcome against a team like the Texans, who are built with exactly the kind of structure the Bears want to build: a stout secondary with a frenetic, pesky defense upfront; A franchise quarterback who could be a special kind of difference maker for the next decade and beyond; And a surrounding cast of high-level skilled position players who can go toe-to-toe with any other offense in the league.

Tech News

Vivo V40e: Leaked Specs and Render Reveal Curved Display, 4500 Nits Brightness, and More

Honor 200 Lite: Know all the details about Huawei’s new budget-friendly smartphone

Apple’s ‘Glowtime’ event: Apple iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, Apple Watch unveiled – Live Updates

Huawei unveils first tri-folding smartphone Huawei Mate XT: September 10 launch, pre-orders open

The secret to the Texans’ success

There are some basic underlying differences for the Texans. They have an offensive line that has become a presentable unit over time and a running game that has seen some key offseason investments with the acquisitions of Damon Pierce as well as Joe Mixon and Cam Akers. This trio is intended to form a respectable running rotation when all three players finally get healthy.

The Texans have clear intentions

From the outset of this season, the Houston Texans’ strategic approach was evident. Even with a record-breaking performance from rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud, the team wasn’t going to build its offense around him throwing 40+ passes per game. Offensive coordinator Bobby Sloic’s plan was to establish a balanced attack, leaning on the offensive line to create opportunities for the run game and protect Stroud. This strategy was on display in Week 1, with Houston distributing 36 rushing attempts among running backs and wide receivers. The Texans aimed to replicate this balanced approach against the Bears, but those plans were disrupted when Joe Mixon left the game early in the third quarter due to a hip-drop tackle.

Instructive for Bears

Despite Mixon’s injury, the Bears can learn from Houston’s handling of Stroud. They need to prioritize Williams’ protection, starting with the offensive line. The current unit is reminiscent of Fields’ beleaguered line in recent seasons. Williams has faced pressure from all positions on the line, including tight end.

The offensive performance lacked consistency and sharpness, with Williams struggling to connect with his receivers, often overthrowing them or making poor decisions on the run. This raises concerns for talent evaluators ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. However, it’s important to consider that Williams’ performance is partly influenced by the lack of a reliable structure around him. The Texans game exemplified this, where Williams was under constant pressure and unable to find his rhythm, resulting in a second straight week without a touchdown and subpar passing performances.

Protecting the quarterback is a collective effort involving the offensive line, tight ends, running backs, and the quarterback himself. While the offensive line has faced criticism for allowing seven sacks, it’s crucial to recognize that everyone plays a role in providing adequate protection. Additionally, establishing a strong run game can help alleviate pressure on the quarterback and create a more balanced offensive approach.

The pressure is on new coordinator Shane Waldron to address the offensive struggles, which have produced a mere 353 yards through two games, including one of the league’s worst rushing attacks. This is a stark contrast to his time in Seattle, where he successfully implemented a balanced offensive scheme. The expectation was for Waldron to shift the Bears away from a run-heavy approach and utilize Williams’ abilities as a high-octane passer. However, the current offensive performance has been far from ideal.

The offensive line’s issues were evident against the Texans, with repeated breakdowns leading to pressure on Williams. One instance late in the fourth quarter, with the Bears attempting a comeback, highlighted these problems. A missed block by right tackle Darnell Wright resulted in a sack on Williams, halting the drive and shifting momentum back to the Texans.

Addressing offensive line issues typically takes time and requires a multifaceted approach. This might involve implementing schemes that move the quarterback and reduce pressure on the line or developing a strong running game to establish control and allow the offensive line to find its rhythm. The Bears’ ability to achieve either remains to be seen.

The Texans’ dominant performance against the Bears served as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead for Chicago. Stroud’s message to Williams after the game emphasized the importance of resilience and perseverance in overcoming adversity. Stroud acknowledged Williams’ talent and encouraged him to stay focused and not let setbacks define him.

Stroud’s words also alluded to the previous failures of high-prospect quarterbacks, which played a role in Williams’ selection. The Texans’ dismantling of Williams brought those past failures and the associated problems to the forefront. It’s a reminder of the challenges ahead and the importance of building a supportive structure around Williams to unlock his full potential.

Way forward for the Bears

Now the question is, how will the Bears turn around from this situation? There are several possible paths:

Offensive Line Improvement: This is the most important thing. The Bears’ offensive line must improve if they want to help Williams succeed. For this, they may have to bring in new players or put more emphasis on training the existing players.

Improving the running game: Having a strong running game can take pressure off opposing defenses and reduce pressure on the quarterback. The Bears need to strengthen their running game.

Changes to play-calling: The Bears may need to make some changes to their play-calling as well. Waldron needs to design plays that allow Williams to utilize his skills properly and take less pressure on the offensive line.

Williams’ development: Williams is a talented quarterback. But he is still young and inexperienced. He needs to improve his game, especially in decision-making and ball control.

Expectations of fans

Bears fans started this season with high hopes. They hoped Williams would lead the team to new heights. But the team’s performance so far has disappointed them. They now hope that the team will learn from their mistakes and return to form and fight for the playoffs.

Last word

The Bears are facing a difficult period, but surrendering is not an option. Instead, they must learn from their errors and progress. By doing so, they retain the potential for significant accomplishments this season.

Some additional discussion

Safeguarding the Field General: The quarterback’s pivotal role in football cannot be overstated. Their safety is paramount for a team’s success. The Bears’ offensive line needs to step up their game to ensure Williams’ protection and create an environment where he can thrive.

Role of the Running Game: A strong running game can take pressure off opposing defenses and reduce pressure on the quarterback. The Bears need to strengthen their running game so Williams can play better.

Role of Coaching Staff: Coaching staff also has an important role to play. They need to design plays that allow Williams to utilize his skills properly and take less pressure on the offensive line.

Support of fans: Support of fans is very important for any team. Bears fans should support and believe in their team.

Hopefully, the Bears will learn from their mistakes moving forward and contend for the playoffs.