Williams Focused After Stellar Performance
Instead of reminiscing about vacationing in Paris and Monaco, Williams made it clear that his focus is on football. "Let’s get back to ball," the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner said, signaling his commitment to continuing his impressive debut season. The Bears (3-2) are coming off their most dominant win since 2021, crushing the Panthers 36-10. Williams was in top form, completing 20 of 29 passes for 304 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions. His 126.2 passer rating was the highest for a Bears rookie since Jim McMahon’s 121.1 in 1982.

Favorable Matchup Against Jaguars' Weak Defense

With Jacksonville (1-4) struggling defensively—they rank 31st in the league and last against the pass—Williams has another prime opportunity to shine. The Bears will aim to head into their bye week with a 4-2 record, seeking their first winning season since 2018. Meanwhile, the Jaguars ended a four-game losing streak by defeating the Indianapolis Colts 37-34 last week. Coach Doug Pederson hopes his team’s familiarity with playing in London gives them an edge.

Bears Riding Defensive Momentum
Chicago’s defense has also been a force, holding opponents to 21 points or fewer in 11 consecutive games, the longest active streak in the NFL. Ranked seventh overall and sixth against the pass, the Bears have recorded three takeaways in each of the past two games and are third in the league with 11 on the season.

“They give us chances to make plays, and we’ve been capitalizing on them,” Williams said, praising the defense.

Swift’s Surge in the Ground Game
Bears running back D'Andre Swift has been crucial to the team's recent success. After a slow start, Swift has racked up 285 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns over the past two games. Against Carolina, he ran for 73 yards with a touchdown and added 47 receiving yards. Swift signed with Chicago in March after a Pro Bowl season with Philadelphia, where he rushed for 1,049 yards.

“It feels good to be in rhythm again,” Swift said.

Jaguars Struggling to Find Defensive Identity
Jacksonville's defense, despite featuring talented edge rushers like Travon Walker, Josh Hines-Allen, and Arik Armstead, has struggled to stop opposing offenses. They remain one of three NFL teams without an interception and have given up an opening-drive touchdown in four consecutive games.

"We need to start fast and execute better," Hines-Allen emphasized. "That’s what it’ll take to get us back on track."

Travel Strategies Differ
The Bears and Jaguars took different approaches to traveling overseas. Chicago flew out Monday night to combat jet lag, while Jacksonville, accustomed to London games, stuck with its usual Thursday departure. The Jaguars will remain in London for another week as they prepare to face the New England Patriots at Wembley Stadium. With both teams eager to build momentum, the matchup at Tottenham promises to be a pivotal moment for each franchise. Chicago is eyeing a strong start to the second half of its season, while Jacksonville hopes to establish consistency after a rocky beginning.