Bears QB Caleb Williams (Photo: Getty)
This is easily the most talked-about storyline heading into Week 1 between these two sides. J.J. McCarthy missed all of 2024 after tearing his MCL in the preseason, and Sam Darnold lit the world on fire. Darnold led them to a 14-3 record, but they flamed out in the Wild Card round against the Los Angeles Rams. Between that and spending a first-round pick on McCarthy, the Vikings let Darnold go to the Seattle Seahawks for three years and $100.5 million. McCarthy will have a tough road ahead to begin his NFL career, having to play against a solid defense, on the road, and in primetime. We'll have to see if the former national champion can handle that type of pressure.
For Caleb Williams, he'll also have a tough challenge in beginning his second season of his NFL career. The Vikings, under Brian Flores, have been one of the best defenses in football, and with the number of exotic blitzes, it makes life tough for even veteran quarterbacks. It was a rough rookie season, whether some of it was on the coaches or him (if certain reporting is to be believed), and he'll have to prove that he can play in the NFL at a high level.
The biggest difference between the two is whether or not the lack of starting experience becomes a problem for McCarthy. If Williams can come in and get into a rhythm, then the rest should hopefully take care of itself and the Bears can get rolling. If they can get an early lead thanks to some improved play from Williams, the crowd might become a factor for McCarthy.