The Chicago Bears pushed the Green Bay Packers deep into the fourth quarter in Week 14 before a late mistake decided the outcome.
Chicago fell 28-21 after Caleb Williams’ fourth-down throw into the end zone found Packers cornerback Keisean Nixon instead of Cole Kmet, ending a potential tying drive. Williams said moments like that do not rattle him, noting,
“In those moments, I feel like the ball should be in my hand… I feel great. It’s like that MJ quote, he missed how many game winners… I’ll take those shots and roll with the punches if I do miss. You move on from it. I think nine times out of 10, I’ll hit it.”
Chicago is 9-4 and heads into its Week 15 matchup with Cleveland aiming for a tenth victory that would solidify its playoff standing. Under head coach Ben Johnson, Williams has made noticeable strides, supported by a more potent rushing attack that has helped the second-year quarterback settle into a better passing rhythm.
His most striking play in Green Bay came on a one-footed strike to Olamide Zaccheaus that Next Gen Stats assessed at a 16.9 percent completion probability. Johnson said the throw created “that mix of ‘Oh my gosh, that’s one of the most incredible plays I’ve ever seen in my life.’”
Williams’ night reflected the pattern of his season. He managed just 32 yards in the first half on 6 of 14 passing before heating up after the break with 154 yards and two touchdowns.
His accuracy issues remain a major storyline, as he owns a 57.8 percent completion rate and a league-high 90 off-target attempts.
How Williams’ volatility shapes the Bears’ next phase
Chicago’s loss at Lambeau Field told a familiar story for Williams. He struggled to find his timing early, completed only one throw beyond 10 air yards before halftime, and missed on 42 percent of his passes in that opening stretch.
The offense surged after the break, fueled by heavy play-action usage and designed movement. Williams used play-action on 61.5 percent of his dropbacks, with 134 of his 144 yards in those situations arriving in the second half.
He released 42.9 percent of his attempts on the move, which produced both touchdowns and the late interception. His ability to elevate the Bears late in games remains a standout. He is tied for the second most game-winning drives and has delivered 12 fourth-quarter scores, a mark near the top of the league.
Chicago’s postseason forecast, listed at 61.9 percent by FPI, depends heavily on Williams tightening his accuracy, reducing the 22 percent off-target rate, and pairing his explosive flashes with steadier early-game stretches. The Bears have already shown they can rally behind him. Their next leap will come when those comebacks are no longer necessary.
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