Bears QB Caleb Williams showed out for Ben Johnson this season

For the first couple of months of Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams' career, his sole focus was winning games to try and get his team into the postseason. Jumping out to a 4-2 start showed he and the Bears were on their way to achieving that goal.

But once the losing streak started in late October that led to the firing of Matt Eberflus and saw the team's playoff hopes vanish, the focus slowly shifted towards next season. For Williams, that means putting enough good plays on film to prove to the next coach that he's the real deal. If that next head coach happens to be Detroit Lions offensive coordinator, then Williams gave him plenty of moments to look at.

The Bears wrapped up their two divisional games with the Lions after Sunday's 34-17 loss, going 0-2 in the season series. The good news, though, is Williams shined in each game in front of Johnson, who is arguably the hottest coaching candidate going into the offseason.

During the first game in Detroit, Williams rallied the Bears back down 16-0 to pull within three in the second half. He showed off his mobility and made big throws downfield, such as 31-yard touchdowns to DJ Moore and Keenan Allen. Williams finished the day going 20 for 39 with 256 yards and three touchdowns in the 23-20 loss.

The rookie built on that performance with arguably an even better one on Sunday, despite the more lopsided loss. Williams completed 26 of 40 passes for 334 yards and two touchdowns. He made more big throws, like a 45-yard dart to Allen down the right sideline and strikes in the middle of the field to keep the chains moving.

In two games against Detroit, Williams totaled 590 yards with five touchdowns, no interceptions, and a passer rating of 102.8. Compare that to the Lions' average opposing passer rating of 81.8 for the 2024 season, and Johnson has a clear picture of what Williams brings to the table.

The Lions offensive coordinator already has had plenty of praise for the rookie. Prior to Sunday's game, Johnson was asked about Williams' play and what he's seen from his performance. "There's no question this guy is talented," Johnson said while smiling. "I remember standing on the sideline last game, and you can hear the ball whistle by you. He's got quite a fastball and has some creativity to him. Can extend plays and is accurate down the field as well."

You can say that this season series was essentially an audition for both men. Johnson wants to show he's the best candidate for any head coaching job and is reportedly "intrigued" by the Bears' opening. Williams, meanwhile, is out there to prove he's a true franchise quarterback for the next coaching staff. They each put out an impressive resume, and it seems they would be a great match together.

This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Bears QB Caleb Williams showed out for Ben Johnson this season