Caleb Williams made history in his highly-anticipated rookie debut for the Chicago Bears on Sunday.
While his performance alone wasn’t anything to write home about, the context of his win earned him a spot in the NFL history books.
Caleb Williams the First No. 1 Overall QB To Win Debut Since 2002
David Carr won his first NFL start in Houston back in 2002. But since then, rookie quarterbacks selected with the No. 1 pick have been 0-14-1 heading into this game between the Bears and Titans.
And while Williams had a lackluster performance overall, he’s the first rookie QB selected with the No. 1 pick to win his first game in the league since Carr.
Williams completed just 14 of 29 passes for 92 yards in his debut, leaving plenty of room for improvement.
His performance didn’t lead the Bears to victory, however. Chicago’s defense and special teams, with their second-half performance, led Williams to this historic feat.
The Bears’ Defense and Special Teams Shines Bright
The Bears’ defensive production was up and down in the first half. They were lenient against the run, but they were strong through the air against Will Levis and Co.
Levis ended the game 19 of 32 with 127 yards, one touchdown, and a pair of interceptions.
At the start of the second quarter, the Bears were set to receive their third punt of the game. But DeAndre Carter wasn’t needed for a return this time around.
Daniel Hardy got in the face of punter Ryan Stonehouse, forcing a blocked punt that was returned 21 yards by Jonathan Owens for the Bears’ first touchdown of the game.
Following Owens’ touchdown, the Bears caused a strip sack, setting up a Cairo Santos field goal that brought Chicago within one score.
Then, Tyrique Stevenson joined the scoring party, intercepting Levis and returning it 43 yards for Chicago’s second non-offensive score of the game.
This interception gave Chicago the lead late, and on Tennessee’s final drive, Jaylon Johnson secured his first interception of the season.
The second half of this game was a defensive masterclass from the Bears, earning their quarterback a historic win in his rookie debut.