Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams led the Chicago Bears to a 24-17 comeback win over the Tennessee Titans in his NFL debut, despite a shaky performance.
In a thrilling season opener, the Chicago Bears overcame a 17-point deficit to defeat the Tennessee Titans 24-17 at Soldier Field. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams made his highly anticipated NFL debut, becoming the first No. 1 draft pick to win his first career start since 2002.
Despite the victory, Williams’ performance left much to be desired, as he completed just 14 of 29 passes for 93 yards, with no touchdowns or interceptions. He was sacked twice and fumbled once, averaging only 3.2 yards per pass attempt.
The Bears were slow to start offensively, nearly being shut out in the first half before Cairo Santos kicked a 24-yard field goal to put Chicago on the scoreboard. Santos added two more field goals, one from 50 yards and another from 48, keeping the Bears within striking distance.
The turning point came late in the third quarter when Chicago’s special teams delivered a crucial play. Defensive end Daniel Hardy blocked a Titans punt, and safety Jonathan Owens scooped up the ball, returning it 21 yards for a touchdown. This cut Tennessee’s lead to 17-10 and shifted the momentum in Chicago’s favor.
The Bears’ defense, which struggled early against the Titans’ rushing attack, tightened up in the second half. After allowing 115 rushing yards in the first two quarters, Chicago’s defense limited Tennessee to just 25 yards on the ground after halftime.
Another pivotal moment came when cornerback Tyrique Stevenson intercepted a pass from Titans quarterback Will Levis, returning it 43 yards for a touchdown. This defensive score gave Chicago its first lead of the day, which Williams extended with a successful 2-point conversion pass to running back D’Andre Swift.
Despite the offensive struggles, the Bears became the first team in NFL history to win a game in which they trailed by at least 17 points and had fewer than 150 total yards. Chicago’s defense and special teams proved to be the deciding factors, as Williams and the offense continued to find their rhythm.
The Bears start their season 1-0, with hopes that Williams will grow more comfortable as he gains experience, while the defense continues to support the rookie quarterback.
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