Nothing is more important on a football team than the relationship between a head coach and quarterback. If it’s harmonious, it can lead to great success. Jim McMahon and Mike Ditka weren’t always civil, but they were usually on the same page. Conversely, Matt Nagy and Mitch Trubisky became divided after their first season together and it ruined a good thing the Chicago Bears had. When they hired Ben Johnson in January, it was hoped he would be able to unlock the full potential of Caleb Williams.
Things seem to be going well. Williams has a 3-to-1 touchdown-interception ratio (9 to 3) and a 92.1 passer rating. He also has two 4th quarter comebacks. That stat line would be great for most coaches, but is it for Johnson. The coach admitted he’d hoped there’d be more progress from Williams efficiency-wise by this point. His completion percentage (61.1%) is far lower than the desired range and his accuracy is still a problem. Tyler Dunne of Go Long made it seem as if Johnson has not made any long-term commitments to the quarterback.
The very next split-second, the conversation shifted to the union of Head Coach and Quarterback. Could Johnson resurrect 2024 first overall pick Caleb Williams? No relationship in sports is more valuable. Time will tell if Williams is Johnson’s guy at the position. That vetting process is ongoing. Chicago’s four-game winning streak, however, is full proof that this coach was always more than a mad scientist…
…There will be no contorting, no twisting the plan of attack. Rather, Williams must keep pace with Johnson.
Ben Johnson isn’t the type of person to make snap decisions.
He evaluates everything, always doing the research. None of his decisions are made without all of the information. It is why he’s such an excellent offensive coach. There is no way he has reached any sort of conclusion on Williams after six games. He will let the entire season play out, wanting to see how the young quarterback progresses in the system. Ben Johnson has praised his work ethic and dedication at every turn. There have been genuine signs of progress. The trick is finding consistency.
It usually takes at least half of a season before a quarterback finds a serious groove in an offense. Williams hasn’t had any truly terrible game. Sunday against the Saints was the closest he came and the Bears still won. The best thing to do is wait until at least the end of November. By then, the team should have a better idea of where Williams’ progress is. If he is still making the same mistakes, only then can a conversation begin.
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