The Chicago Bears witnessed quarterback Caleb Williams add a new signature NFL win Monday. Williams guided Chicago's 34-17 stunner over the Seattle Seahawks by tossing 247 yards and throwing one touchdown. Yet one past Lincoln Riley message from Williams' USC football days continues to play in his mind.
Williams spoke of the “be decisive” message that Riley instilled in him on Thursday, during his first press conference following the Seattle romp.
Caleb Williams talks about his mindset coming back from injury and wanting to be more decisive with the football: ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/KxAtTk69IL
— CHGO Bears (@CHGO_Bears) November 5, 2026
Williams is best known as Riley's last Heisman Trophy winning quarterback. He thrived with the Trojans during the 2022 season by tossing 42 touchdowns compared to just five interceptions. Williams also holds the title of being USC's last top overall pick, with the Bears taking him in April 2023.
The past star from the Land of Troy had some rough, humble beginnings to his pro career. Including witnessing an early NFL head coaching change. Yet his head coach now Ben Johnson found new ways to unlock Williams' potential.
The duo have now accomplished the following: Winning the NFC North title in their first season, taking the Los Angeles Rams to the limit in the divisional round and finally, go a combined 18-9 together.
Now this Bears team elevated to 6-2 overall after dismantling the ‘Hawks. It now marks the second time in Williams' young NFL career that he's led a win over the defending Super Bowl champ. He guided Chicago to the 24-15 win over the Philadelphia Eagles during the 2025 season.
Now his decisive decision making has reignited championship chatter in the Windy City. All while proving to become the latest Riley pupil to thrive in the pros.