The Chicago Bears are still seeing the same result no matter how they approach each game.
Quarterback Caleb Williams appeared physically and mentally exhausted at the end of Monday night’s 30-12 loss to the Minnesota Vikings, marking the Bears’ eighth consecutive loss.
With only three games left and no chance to make the playoffs, the coaching staff still uncertain about next season, it’s now about players finding personal motivation for the final games. For Williams, this means gaining more experience as an NFL quarterback.
“Obviously, there’s still a ton to play for when it comes to just the overall personal pride, to grow up, and development,” Bears interim head coach Thomas Brown said. “And your (game) tape is your resume. So understanding that we still have a great opportunity and privilege to be in this business. It’s not guaranteed. And so trying to find ways to continue to keep battling.”
For Williams, this won’t be easy with the offensive line allowing a league-high 58 sacks. The Bears are just eight sacks away from breaking their team record for sacks allowed, and Williams already holds the individual record for most sacks taken.
The offense has failed to score in the first half of the last three games, with Williams averaging just 40 passing yards in those halves. Monday’s game marked his best first half in the past three games, with 59 yards passing.
“I think mentally he’s in a good spot,” Brown said about Williams. “Of course, he’s frustrated like we all are from the standpoint of just not getting the result. But confidence isn’t shaken.
Kind of looking at some of those last night, he did have some pressures, they only had two sacks. So (we) continue to find ways to find answers to get the ball out of his hands faster and also to shore up protection.”
In 13 of the Bears’ 14 games, opponents have scored first, highlighting the offense’s struggles to start strong.
With the situation looking tough, Brown says the focus will not be on evaluating young backups in the final three games.
“Not at all,” he said. “I think the focus every week is trying to find ways to put the best roster together and have the best schemes in all three phases and find ways to be productive and win football games.”
