​Caleb Williams and the Chicago Bears enjoyed an incredible offensive performance in their 59-37 win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday afternoon. However, they are keeping their eye on the ball with some issues they must address as the 2026 campaign is underway.Williams filled up the stat sheet as he enjoyed his activity in the offense. He completed 21 out of 29 passes for 269 yards and two touchdowns while racking up 10 rushes for 65 yards and two touchdowns.Williams reflected on the performance after the game, per reporter Chris Emma. He surprisingly said this game will be the team’s worst as he anticipates stronger displays throughout the coming weeks this year.“That’s who we want to be this week. We got to go clean up. We want to be truthers. Obviously, this is going to be our kind of worst game. I know points don’t necessarily show that, but execution, the blocking, the penalties, all these different things,” Williams said.How Caleb Williams and Bears played against PanthersSep 13, 2026; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams (18) runs the ball while defended by Carolina Panthers linebacker Devin Lloyd (55) in the second half at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Caleb Williams and the Bears know their capabilities of being playoff contenders, having made the Divisional Round last season. They look to build on that success as their Week 1 win over the Panthers is a promising sign for their fans to look forward to.Both teams went into a shootout, exchanging touchdowns throughout the course of the game. Carolina valiantly competed with Chicago but ultimately couldn’t keep up with the Bears’ firepower.D’Andre Swift dominated the Panthers’ defense in the season opener. He racked up 18 rushes for 124 yards and a hat trick of three touchdowns while making a 10-yard catch.Kyle Monangai got his chances to shine amid Swift and Williams’ activity in the run game. He produced 10 carries for 100 yards and a touchdown throughout the game. Meanwhile, Kalif Raymond caught eight passes for 84 yards and Cole Kmet and Jahdae Walker made receiving touchdowns.The Bears will look forward to their next matchup, being at home. They host the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2 as kickoff commences on Sept. 20 at 1 p.m. ET.— Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —