When former USC quarterbacks Sam Darnold and Caleb Williams faced off last month, they produced an overtime classic. This time, it was not nearly as exciting. On Monday night, Williams and the Chicago Bears traveled to take on Darnold and the Minnesota Vikings in a nationally televised matchup. Minnesota entered the game having won six in a row, while Chicago had lost seven straight.
It became apparent early on that both trends would continue. The Vikings jumped out to a 10-0 first quarter lead and never looked back, cruising to a 30-12 win.
Once again, Darnold was the better of the two QBs, although not by a significant margin. He completed 24 of 40 passes for 231 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Williams, meanwhile, completed 18 of 31 passes for 191 yards and a touchdown.
The Vikings have officially clinched a playoff spot. They are currently tied with the Detroit Lions for first place in the NFC North.
The Bears, meanwhile, are eliminated from playoff contention. They are currently in the market for a new coach, and hope to hire someone who will be able to develop and get the most out of Williams as he enters his second NFL season.
The difference between Sam Darnold and Caleb Williams boils down to the quality of an organization and its coach. Minnesota has a sound organization led by Kevin O’Connell, one of the best coaches in the league. The Bears were headless horsemen this season, and general manager Ryan Poles did not give Caleb a remotely competent offensive line. It’s amazing what can happen for Darnold when he’s not saddled by the Jets’ or Panthers’ futility. Caleb Williams needs that same taste of freedom in Chicago with a coach who knows what he’s doing.