Caleb Williams fails to impress against Notre Dame

Caleb Williams looked nothing like a generational talent as Notre Dame steamrolled USC in South Bend.

The projected No. 1 overall pick in next year’s draft threw three first-half interceptions. He passed for 199 yards and one touchdown.

Notre Dame’s defense sacked the reigning Heisman Trophy winner six times. It was just the third time in his USC career that he threw for less than 200 yards. He did that with Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles in attendance.

Notre Dame did a good job against Caleb Williams and USC on Saturday night.

The Bears have the inside track for the top pick in the draft based on their record. They also own the rights to the Carolina Panthers first-round pick who currently have the worst record in the NFL.

One bad game is not going to send Williams tumbling down the draft board. Caleb’s NFL projections have gone so far as to predict he will be enshrined in Canton someday.

Plus, Notre Dame was ready for Williams with a great game plan. That does not mean a bad night in South Bend means Williams will be a draft bust.

He still has incredible arm strength and is extremely accurate. He is electric when he is forced out of the pocket as he will either dash for a big gain or come up with a big throw. The only concern with his game is he lacks the ideal height for an NFL quarterback.

The Irish did a great job of keeping after Williams. Xavier Watts was outstanding in coverage as the safety picked off Caleb twice. Watts also recovered a fumble for a touchdown.

Notre Dame played like their New Year’s Day bowl hopes were on the line. USC performed like a top-10 team with a bad defense. The Fighting Irish cracked the code when it came to beating the Trojans. They exposed their terrible defense and got Williams to throw them the ball.

Caleb Williams will still have some great performances this year to cement his status as the top NFL draft prospect. He just did not have one against Notre Dame.