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NFL Week 1 Winners and Losers: Bears offense looks every bit as good as Ben Johnson said it would be

The Chicago Bears kicked off their 2026 campaign in record-setting fashion, outlasting the Carolina Panthers in the highest-scoring Week 1 contest in league history. Propelled by signal-caller Caleb Williams, Chicago eclipsed the 50-point mark for the first time since the 2012 season.

Williams ignited the explosive showing with a pinpoint touchdown pass and added a score on the ground during the offensive showcase.

The dynamic output validated high preseason expectations under head coach Ben Johnson. Prior to kickoff, reports highlighted Williams' remarkable development within the offensive system, noting he had progressed so rapidly relative to the rest of the unit that Johnson previously advised him to dial things back.