Chicago Bears vs Tennessee Titans Picks and Predictions September 8th 2024

Caleb Williams Era Begins in Chicago

All eyes are on Caleb Williams as the Chicago Bears’ No. 1 overall pick takes the field for the first time in the NFL. Chicago, after a 7-10 season, is placing its future in the hands of this talented rookie from USC. Williams, though new to the league, isn’t letting the pressure get to him.

To set him up for success, the Bears have made significant moves. Alongside star receiver DJ Moore, Chicago added veteran wideout Keenan Allen and drafted Rome Odunze with the No. 9 pick. They also beefed up their running game, signing D’Andre Swift to join Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson in the backfield.

For Williams, the focus is simple: “Wins are what matter most. Whether I throw for 100 yards or 400, as long as we get the win, that’s all that counts.”

Titans’ Offense Rebuilds Around Will Levis

The Tennessee Titans are also investing in youth, with second-year QB Will Levis leading the offense. After a rocky 3-6 start in 2023, Levis now has more weapons, including star wide receiver Calvin Ridley and 1,000-yard rusher Tony Pollard, who joined during the offseason.

With Titans legend Derrick Henry now in Baltimore, the pressure is on Pollard to carry the ground game, and Levis is ready for the challenge.

First-year head coach Brian Callahan, who helped develop Joe Burrow with the Bengals, is eager to see his new-look team in action—especially with his personal connection to Chicago.

New-Look Offenses Ready for a Showdown

Both teams have revamped their offenses, with Tennessee moving from a run-heavy system to a more balanced attack featuring Levis and Pollard. Callahan, known for his offensive expertise, hopes the Titans can hit the ground running.

The Bears, meanwhile, are excited to unleash Caleb Williams. Veteran wide receiver Keenan Allen feels good about the rookie’s potential. “The expectation is always to win,” said Allen. “I wouldn’t want to be with anyone else right now than Caleb. He’s improved every day, and his confidence is sky-high.”

Injury Updates

Both teams are dealing with some injuries heading into Week 1. Keenan Allen was limited in practice due to a heel injury, and Bears defensive end Montez Sweat was also limited with a toe issue. For the Titans, safety Jamal Adams (hip) missed practice, while wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (knee) and linebacker Otis Reese (concussion) were limited.

What to Watch For

Sunday’s game will reveal how quickly these new-look offenses can find their rhythm. For the Bears, it’s all about Williams keeping his cool and making connections with playmakers like Allen and DJ Moore. On the Titans’ side, Levis and Pollard will need to establish balance and control against Chicago’s defense.

With both teams eager to start the season on a high note, this Week 1 matchup is a prime opportunity for these young quarterbacks to make a statement and set the tone for a successful 2024 season.