Matt Eberflus Throws Caleb Williams Under the Bus For Big Mistake vs. Colts
Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears' offense have not gotten off to the start everyone hoped for. Through three games Williams has completed 59.3% (70-118) of his passes for 630 yards, two touchdowns, and four interceptions.
Two of Williams's four interceptions came this past Sunday against the Indianapolis Colts on bad decisions. Williams's first interception came on a 3rd & 4 pass to DeAndre Carter, who was late to the outside. Colts cornerback Jaylon Jones read the play perfectly and would have had a pick-six if he hadn't stepped out of bounds.
Jaylon Jones said “WHO TF IS TREVOR SIKKEMA”pic.twitter.com/e1symiP5aw https://t.co/oSouD1h9X9
— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) September 22, 2024
Williams's second interception of the game came on a 50/50 ball to rookie Rome Odunze. While the ball hit Odunze square in the chest, he was double covered, so it was a difficult catch to make.
"Look at the athleticism of Jaylon Jones." - @JasonMcCourty pic.twitter.com/ZdF0uma2tE
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) September 22, 2024
Coach Matt Eberflus was asked about Williams's second interception during his press conference on Monday. According to ESPN's Courtney Cronin, Eberflus said that he thought it was an aggressive throw, but he thought Odunze was open.
Matt Eberflus on Caleb Williams' interception on a throw intended for Rome Odunze: "I think it was an aggressive throw, I really do. I think he was open but again those windows close in the NFL. The safe option would have been taking the back in the flat in that particular case.…
— Courtney Cronin (@CourtneyRCronin) September 23, 2024
Eberflus's assessment of Williams's mistake is mostly accurate. Watching the play, Odunze definitely has a chance and the ability to make a play on that ball. However, the fact that Odunze had two defensive backs in close proximity to him gave him no room for error.
Obviously, Williams expects Odunze to make the tough catch between the defenders. Colts safety Nick Cross just made an outstanding play on the ball to deflect it to Jones.
Although this throw from Williams ended in an interception, the fact he chose the aggressive option is a good sign. As Williams progresses this year, he will become more comfortable with NFL windows and make more of those throws.
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