NFL Tales of the Week – 2026 Week 1 Edition (9-14-26)
By: Tyrone Montgomery Jr.
Headline Photo Credit: Credit: AP Photo/Scott Kinser
The Chicago Bears Are Looking Like the Team to Beat This Season
The Chicago Bears have officially announced themselves as a team nobody should take lightly. After scoring a league-best 59 points in Week 1, Chicago looks like a legitimate Super Bowl contender, and the rest of the NFL should be paying attention. Those 59 points are tied for the second-most points scored in an opening week in NFL history, matching the 2019 Ravens, 1968 Cowboys, and 1963 Chiefs. That is elite company, and the Bears are making it clear they belong in the conversation.
Leading the way is Caleb Williams, who looked every bit like an elite quarterback. There is no wonder why he made the cover of Madden 27 this year. Williams played with confidence and comfort, making big-time plays with both his arm and his legs. His ability to extend plays and create opportunities outside the pocket makes Chicago’s offense incredibly difficult to defend.
What makes the Bears even more dangerous is their balance. Five different wide receivers recorded at least two catches, showing that Williams has plenty of weapons to work with. Defenses cannot simply focus on one receiver and expect to slow this offense down.
Then there is the running game. Chicago had two running backs rush for over 100 yards, giving the offense a powerful one-two punch that keeps defenses honest. When a team can throw the football, run it effectively, and get outstanding quarterback play, it becomes a nightmare match up. It is only Week 1, but the Chicago Bears are looking like the team to beat this season. If they continue playing at this level, the rest of the NFL could be in serious trouble.
The Rams’ Super Team Is Already Off to a Rocky Start
The Los Angeles Rams entered the season with Super Bowl expectations, but their opening game against the San Francisco 49ers exposed serious concerns. After traveling approximately 15 hours to Australia, the Rams looked sluggish on both sides of the football and were embarrassed by their division rival.
Matthew Stafford struggled to find his rhythm, looking more like an aging quarterback than the elite passer Los Angeles needs. When Stafford struggles, the entire offense suffers, especially Puka Nacua, who has become one of the team’s most important weapons. Nacua has also dealt with injuries and off-field issues over the past year, making his availability and consistency even more important.
The Rams’ problems extended to their defense. Newly acquired Aaron Donald, who came out of retirement, did not play. Donald still needs to get into football shape and become acclimated to the defensive system, leaving Los Angeles without one of its biggest additions. Meanwhile, star acquisition Myles Garrett had a disappointing debut, failing to record a single tackle. That is especially concerning for a player who won Defensive Player of the Year last season. To make matters worse, Garrett finished the game with a knee injury and is reportedly expected to undergo surgery that will place him on injured reserve.
The Rams have too much talent to panic after one game, but this was far from the start they envisioned. Stafford must improve, their stars must stay healthy, and the defense must find its identity quickly. For a team built to contend, the season is already off to a rocky start.
