5 Bears who earned game balls in Chicago’s victory over the Panthers

Chicago Bears fans finally enjoyed the kind of win they’ve been waiting for all season long. Against the visiting Carolina Panthers, led by former Bear Andy Dalton, Chicago cruised to victory almost from the very start. After a brief scare in which the offense went three and out followed by Carolina scoring a quick touchdown, the Bears put up 30 unanswered points, roaring to a 36-10 win.

Most importantly, the Bears hit all three of the 'keys to victory' I listed for them the other day. Dalton was under fire all game long, Caleb Williams had by far his best game of the year, and D’Andre Swift had himself a day (again).

Many players deserve a game ball today and I wish I could give out 15 or 20. Nevertheless, here are five who stood out just a bit higher in an excellent performance.

1. Caleb Williams

At long last, rookie phenom Caleb Williams looked like the quarterback everyone believed he would be when he was drafted first overall. While he'd been showing genuine improvement every week so far this season, he had yet to have a statement game. Sunday against the Panthers, he completed 20 of 29 passes for 304 yards and two touchdowns.

Williams finished with a 126.2 passer rating, breaking his career high he'd set just last week, and also added 34 rushing yards, including a couple of key first downs.

Congratulations, Chicago. You have a franchise quarterback.

2. DJ Moore

Sports discourse on social media is insane sometimes, with Bears fans voicing frustrations with DJ Moore over the past couple of weeks. He silenced any criticisms of his play by pulling in five of his eight targets for 105 yards and two touchdowns.

The only blight on his game on Sunday was a bizarre drop on a 3rd down attempt late in the fourth quarter. Moore was wide open and just dropped it. But the game was well in hand at that point, thanks in large part to Moore. 

3. Jaquan Brisker

After a rough start to the game, Brisker dialed in and was a disruptive force for the rest of the afternoon. He forced a couple of key incomplete passes and punched a ball loose for a Bears takeaway. This is a contract year for Brisker and, through five games, he's making an excellent case to be rewarded with a massive second deal.

4. Kevin Byard III

Easily one of GM Ryan Poles' best free agent signings, Byard hauled in a tough interception on Sunday, his first of the year. He also deflected another pass, had a tackle for a loss, and registered six total tackles. Not a bad day at the office for the veteran.

5. D'Andre Swift

It wasn't a dominant game from Swift today, but after all the trash that's been talked about him this year so far, he deserves another game ball. Swift was solid on Sunday, averaging 3.5 yards per carry, although it would have been higher if it wasn't for several of his attempts coming in goal-to-go situations when Carolina would load up the box.

He scored his second rushing touchdown of the year, too, and could have had another but was pulled off the field in favor of Roschon Johnson (which was probably the right call from offensive coordinator Shane Waldron).

Honorable Mentions

Much like Swift, Shane Waldron deserves an apology from Bears fans. He called an incredible game today and is showing why he was one of the top coaching candidates this offseason. Also Gervon Dexter, for posting another sack, Tremaine Edmunds, for forcing a late fumble, and Rome Odunze for once again flashing his elite potential.