The most shocking thing from the joint practice wasn’t a hit or a scuffle. It was the numbers coming off the quarterback’s arm.
While the defense struggled to stop anyone, Caleb Williams looked like a different player. Per reports, the rookie completed 9-for-11 passes with six straight completions in a row. That kind of accuracy is rare for a first-year player in such high heat.
During the full first half of practice, Blaine Kellar of Main Street Nashville recorded only three incompletions for Williams. That stat contradicts the usual narrative about rookie growing pains. The targets were spread out to eight different receivers, showing the offense is finding its rhythm fast.
According to Ben Arthur from NFL on Fox, Williams executed special plays on the field. He specifically highlighted a layered throw to Rome Odunze that broke down the coverage.
The Titans found themselves in a blender because Ben Johnson called up complex plays. Tennessee’s secondary could not hold back multiple skill players as the offense dominated the defense.
But the story on the other side of the ball is much darker for the Bears.
Injury Woes Loom Large
The heat and humidity made for some chippiness and a few injury scares. Although Tyrique Stevenson did return, starting cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson and Tyrique Stevenson left practice early.
The big worry is on the defensive line. Austin Booker, the Bears defensive end, faces a groin issue that will likely keep him out against the Titans. Windy City Gridiron indicates he might not be prepared for the season start on Sept. 13.
DT Gervon Dexter was also out with a hamstring issue. Tuesday saw him exit practice, and he skipped the trip with the team for their session against the Titans.
The Bears got players back from injury, but losing two key linemen right before the final game hurts. Right tackle Darnell Wright is good to go, but the line looks thin without Dexter and Booker.
A Rough Day in the Secondary
The defensive struggles weren’t just about who was hurt. A scuffle erupted following a massive hit delivered by Bears safety Xavier Woods.
The Bears’ secondary ended a tough day vs. Titans with S Xavier Woods’ ‘cheap’ blindside hit on WR Wan’Dale Robinson. The Titans weren’t happy about the contact.
The Bears kept struggling to stop an opposing offense on the defensive side of the ball. This is a major concern as they try to lock down the final roster spots.
As training camp ended Thursday, Coach Johnson expressed excitement about improving in the red zone. The team wants Williams to make those tough throws inside the 20-yard line.
Carnell Tate torches former favorite team, showing the depth of talent on the roster. Tate’s love for Jay Cutler, Matt Forte and wide receiver Brandon Marshall came from his father.
The Tennessee Titans are playing against the Chicago Bears in their final preseason game tomorrow. Some roster bubble spots will be finalized during the game as the Titans figure out who will represent them during the season.
“There’s no lead safe from Caleb,” a source noted regarding the quarterback’s performance.
The Bears traveled to Nashville for their second joint practice of the preseason when they took on the Tennessee Titans ahead of their game on Saturday. It was a hot and humid day when practice got underway.
The team needs to decide who stays and who goes before the 53-man roster is set. The accuracy of Williams gives hope, but the defensive injuries create a real headache for the coaching staff.
Fans will see the final product tomorrow in the preseason finale. The roster decisions made after this game will define the season start.
