Photo via Yahoo Sports

10 Thoughts on the NFL: Chicago Bears put the League on notice, plus much more

The Chicago Bears began their 2026 campaign with an explosive offensive showing, putting up 59 points in a Week 1 road victory over the Carolina Panthers. Guided by head coach Ben Johnson in their second year working together, third-year quarterback Caleb Williams found the end zone in the opening quarter and orchestrated a dominant display.

Despite the lopsided scoring output, Williams critically referred to the performance as their worst outing, echoing Johnson's exacting standards as Chicago aims to solidify status as a championship threat.

Following the blowout, Williams surged into position as a front-runner in the league's Most Valuable Player betting odds. His display drew high praise during Sunday Night Football from NBC analyst and former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Mike Tomlin, who highlighted the passer's dual-threat execution alongside commentators Mike Tirico and Cris Collinsworth.