In a breathtaking moment during the divisional round playoff game, Caleb Williams executed an extraordinary touchdown pass that left spectators stunned. With only seconds remaining, Williams launched a remarkable 50-plus-yard throw off his back foot, finding Cole Kmet in the end zone, pulling the Chicago Bears to within a single point of the Los Angeles Rams. The dramatic play seemed to resurrect the Bears from the depths of defeat, and all that stood between them and a tie was the conversion of an extra point.
However, instead of opting for a two-point conversion to potentially upend the Rams on their home turf, head coach Ben Johnson decided to take the conservative route and go for the extra point, aiming to push the game into overtime. This decision raised eyebrows, especially given the aggressive approach Johnson had shown throughout the season. Had the Bears succeeded in a two-point conversion, they would have been on the precipice of a remarkable Super Bowl appearance, facing the possibility of either a second-year quarterback or a replacement player from either the New England Patriots or Denver Broncos.
Johnson’s decision took into account not only the momentum the Bears had generated with their stunning touchdown but also their previous struggles in goal-to-go situations. He reflected on the game’s earlier moments, remembering how the Bears faltered on a critical goal line sequence just minutes before, which heavily influenced his choice. Despite the heart-stopping excitement of that miraculous touch, Johnson emphasized the importance of being pragmatic in such high-stakes situations.
Unfortunately for the Bears, their hopes were dashed following an interception and a defensive misstep, leading to a disappointing end to their season. Despite this, the thrilling touchdown by Williams to Kmet stands as one of the most memorable plays in NFL history, akin to other stunning moments that ultimately didn’t sway game outcomes.
Looking ahead, even though the Bears face challenges, the youthful energy of Caleb Williams at just 24 years old provides reasons for optimism. As he continues to develop in his career, there’s a chance he will lead the Bears to future successes. For now, Bears fans can take solace in the resilient spirit embodied by this team, believing that this incredible play could be the beginning of a series of memorable moments for the franchise. The tenacity displayed this season lays a strong foundation for future endeavors in the NFL.