Bears HC Matt Eberflus was critical of Caleb Williams' aggressiveness

Chicago Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams showed much improvement in Week 3 against the Indianapolis Colts, compared to the first two weeks of his NFL career. Williams threw the ball 52 times in the 21-16 loss, not only because the team trailed throughout the game but because of the lack of a productive run game to help balance the offense, which has been beyond frustrating in the beginning of the season.

Williams' final line against the Colts saw him complete 33-of-52 passes for 363 yards -- second-most passing yards in the NFL this season -- the first two touchdowns of his career, two interceptions (bringing his total to four), and a lost fumble on a strip sack. The second interception, both which were grabbed by second-year cornerback Jaylon Jones, who got the first two pickoffs of his career.

Speaking to the media on Monday, head coach Matt Eberflus had some harsh criticism for his rookie gunslinger. Eberflus said the throw by Williams was an aggressive one, where he noted the difference between college and the NFL defenses. Eberflus called for better ball protection and for Williams to be more wise with his decision making. There's one particular portion of Eberflus' quote that stood out more than others.

"I think it was an aggressive throw, I really do," Eberflus said. "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. We went through the motion and they ended up shifting their coverage over there.

"So on that particular play — again, aggressive throw. He’s gotta have some wisdom there and discernment in terms of when he needs to make that throw. You never want to take away his aggressiveness, but he has to be really good with the football. That’s his No. 1 job as a quarterback."

The call for better ball protection is a warranted one, as Williams has had five turnovers in three games, four interceptions and a lost fumble. The turnovers in particular against Indianapolis came at inopportune times that cost the team the game. However, there should also be more accountability on Eberflus for a lack of protection from the offensive line, which has seen Williams sacked 13 times, fourth-highest in the league, and no production in the run game.

Williams needs to do better, but three games into his rookie season with an average at best offensive line and criticism from his head coaching, deservingly or not, is not a winning recipe.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears HC Matt Eberflus was critical of Caleb Williams' aggressiveness