Caleb Williams of the Chicago Bears loses to Jayden Daniels of Washington, Hail Mary Pass

Former USC Trojans star Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears traveled to Landover, Maryland to face another rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and Washington’s commander. The rookie quarterbacks were selected first in the 2024 NFL Draft and quickly made the cut in the league. Due to rising expectations as a result of their outstanding play, the game was moved to the national game of the week.

After Williams led Chicago Bears and took a 15-12 lead with less than thirty seconds left, Daniels responded in the most unlikely way imaginable. The match ended with an improbable “Hail Mary”. Washington’s commanders As time expired, point guard Jayden Daniels passed to winger Noah Brown, and the Commanders won 18-15.

In an evening that was supposed to be a showcase for two young, aspiring point guards from the league National Football Leagueboth franchises’ defenses rose to the occasion and turned the game into a trench war. This was a tough game to score, and while people would like to put it down to the rookie quarterbacks having a day off, which they did, it was more the result of two very talented defenses working at full speed.

Ex USC Trojans star Caleb Williams struggled in this match from the first whistle. The best game of his career against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London was followed by arguably the worst performance of his young career. Williams had sailed a few passes earlier and never got back into rhythm. The most important thing was the Commander’s pass rush, which dominated for three and a half quarters.

Williams had 36 passes in the fourth quarter, but it’s important to note that he never made a serious mistake. He never returned an early interception. He never tried to be Superman and had an untimely failure. He picked himself up and with the defense playing so well, the Bears still had a chance. It was here that Williams showed what he could do.

Down 12-7, Williams led the Bears on offense twice, making throw after throw and multiple runs to keep the chains moving. Pocket awareness was evident; his arm angles and ability to extend plays and complete passes down the field shined. On a day when he struggled mightily with bad pass protection and questionable playcalls, he never broke down.

Williams may have lost the battle against Daniels today, but he is still building a foundation of traits that will pay off over time. The fights weren’t exactly as expected, but the ending was full of drama. Williams will be fine.