Caleb Williams is special (Hour 3)

0:00Hey, I arrived almost here. Are you ready? Just grabbing my shoes. That's what you said 10 minutes ago. I just wrapped a video call, uploading this giant file on my tablet, looking at my watch group and Nana's with the group chat, and of course, still lining up tonight's playlist on my phone. All at once? Yep, story of my life. That's why I switched to D-Mobile. They have the fastest 5G network. Okay, multitasker. I see you. Honestly, I never imagined I could do all this at once. It's awesome. Say no more, I'm totally switching. My post is taking way too long to upload. That's a sign you've got to get D-Mobile. So many reasons to join D-Mobile. Find yours at T-Mobile.com. Fastest based on analysis by Uclosepetextintelligence data of National Speed Score results in incorporating 5G download to upload speeds for the first half of 2026.

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2:02His TJ Edwards came over and he was not alone. Home town kid, local guy made good. I know quite a bit about the history and all the great players that have been here before. So many, so many great linebackers that have played. I met Erlacher in his rookie year at like a meet and greet or something like that. And that was, you know, that was special for me and my friends. And then Devon Hester, that first kick return to Super Bowl is always, always stick out to me. But, you know, family nights and things like that growing up and letting the stands a lot of soldiers. So it's pretty special for sure. TJ Edwards with Haim Peyton. Oh, man, can't wait for this conversation. On 1043, the score. Welcome back. It's a beautiful Monday morning in Chicago. This is the Haim Peyton Show. On 1043, the score. Hello to the Chicago Sports Network audience. Thank you for joining us as well. Simon Caston till nine o'clock. And it is our pleasure. Now to go to the plumbers 911 hotline. Plumbing emergency call 1-833 plum 911. Local 130 plumbers get the job done right the first time. He is the Bears inside linebacker. He is one of the Bears leaders in that locker room.

3:04He is TJ Edwards and he joins us now. Good morning TJ. How are you? Morning guys. How are we doing, man? Doing well. Doing well, man. Yesterday had to be fun, man. 59 points on the board for your offense. You guys get a dub week one. What was the feeling like in that locker room after the game? Yeah, man. Anytime you can come out with a win, especially week one, you know, and just kind of weather the storm as coach was talking about, right, the stuff in the game where there's a lot of unknowns, man. But I thought we just stayed the course. You know, it obviously wasn't all pretty. But man, it come out with a win. And again, I thought our offense was phenomenal for sure. Where is the biggest area in need of improvement when you look at it defensively? Obviously the focus will be this week nationally and maybe around town on 59 points and boy, that offense was historic. From your perspective, I would imagine you got to get back to work and you got to get working on the things that maybe you would have liked to have done better in the week one opener.

4:06Where does the job start? Yeah, I mean, like you said, I feel like, again, one of the work never stops. But two, I think we kind of just got to look at the tape and see what was going on. There's some plays that we definitely left out there and some technique, things that I can speak for me personally that I want to have back and that I want to improve on. And at the end of the day, it is easier to fix after the win. We found a way to get off the field when we needed to and have our offense score more points than they did. But yeah, there's definitely some things to fix. It's never going to be perfect. But I thought the effort all day in terms of how many plays we played, we were playing all of them to make sure that we were trying to get to the ball. And we didn't do that enough yesterday. But again, I think there's a lot of pauses we could take from it too. I thought guys were flying around high energy into the game. But yeah, we'll get back on track and fix those things that we need to correct for sure. TJ, you talked about effort. And that comes, especially on the defensive side of the ball, of creating turnovers.

5:06You guys had a chance to be able to do that yesterday. There has to be a good feeling starting out the gate with turnovers. When you look at last year, you guys led league and turnovers. Yeah, I mean, that's a point of emphasis for us every single week. Man, we want to get to the ball. I think our coaches do a great job of making sure that we drill that, making sure that we are talking about it. We know ways and plays that we can have opportunities to go take the ball away. And on a lot of those plays, it is an effort play of guys getting to the ball. Right? I think at that fumble, where you got guys just screaming to the ball. And that's how the ball pops out, man. So that was really cool to see. I think we've been drilling that. We've been preaching that and sort of see it kind of come to life. You know, it was really cool. Join by TJ Edwards here on Hawn, Peyton Chicago Sports Radio, 104, 3, the score. As we will be every Monday morning at 8 o'clock in TG. We really appreciate you rejoining us again this year for the second season. Let's hope this year, everything is healthier because you have

6:09traveled a long, arduous road to get back onto the field. Yes, we'll talk about yesterday and what it means for the defense moving forward. But let's just stop for a second and look back. You've come a long way. And the fact that you were on the field at all yesterday, I think is a credit to just how much perseverance you had to show when recovering from that injury that we remember from the playoff game. Last we saw you were being wheeled off the field. It's been a long road since then. How would you describe the feeling you just had yesterday returning to action? Yeah, yeah, man. It's on a gratitude to be honest with you. Just very grateful for the process and my trainers and my support system at home, my wife, just kind of keeping me on course when those days were. It was tough, but man, it was such a huge blessing to be out there. And I think, again, I get that feeling of gratitude, but then the competitor in me and just type of player that I know I can be. I want to be dominant.

7:10So it's getting back to that form. But yeah, man, a ton of gratitude, really just a huge blessing to be able to play all those plays in the heat and all that. Man, it was awesome. A ton of fun really was. Well, TJ, you're a pro, man. I mean, it's a credit to how much hard work you put into your craft. And so you being back on the field is cool. Do you see yourself as like, like, onking the locker room a little bit? I'm saying because the reason why I say it is because you've got young guys. Every single year you play, you know, you get the young guys, the rookies coming in and Dylan Theanerman and Malik Muhammad. How cool is it being able to see those guys get their first NFL, true NFL games underneath their belt and how they progressed over the summer? Yeah, no, it's definitely interesting. I mean, with NIL, man, these dudes been in the lead for a minute. It feels like, but, but no, it's really, it's cool, man. I feel like again, we got a good group of young guys that came into.

8:10I feel like they just put their head down and went to work. I mean, Dylan, you could see that all summer, man. He's ready to be a pro. He's in his book. He's studying. He knows what to do and he plays extremely fast, extremely fast, man. I think, you know, he showed that today, even on special teams, I saw him just flying around and making plays, man. So that was, that was really cool to see. I was happy for him. You know, I think Malik as well, right? A guy who was kind of thrown into the fire bit and, and man, he responded. I think, you know, I even saw him in the run fit a couple of times just throwing it in there. And that was, that was really cool to see too. So, I mean, no, really cool. I try to just talk to those guys as much as I can. Because, you know, it can, it can spin a little bit. Your head can spin, you know, first game, all those type things, all these, you know, these first experiences that they're having. But they responded really well, man. And we're going to need them to play well, you know, the entire year. So, really excited for them. But yeah, you know, it's definitely, you know, it's a, it's a, it's a new locker room, young locker room, but for sure, I'm definitely a little older than most of these guys.

9:14Well, and it's also, you're, you're a familiar face in a, in a defense full of new faces, because when you look at the change, it really, that's, both safeties from last year are gone. Nishan Wright is gone. You know, the linebackers that left and the trade for trading, Jervon Dexter during camp thrust a lot of new guys into the forefront. And you, three rookies were relied upon yesterday. TJ, how, what's the goal of this defense week to week because I would imagine yesterday, it's an opener. You're going to learn a lot of things about yourself. But I just think with, you wonder, what, what is the point of emphasis as you guys get back in the meeting rooms when you watch a tape? What is the number one priority for this defense this week? Yeah, I think for us, and we were, you know, we did a, a good amount of it last week. We could just watch and film together just as players, right? Just to make sure that we're, we're seeing everything the same way and we're, we're able to kind of communicate on what we're trying to do altogether. Because that's the biggest thing is, is how fast can, can this group come together and, and kind of operate as one?

10:17You know, and like you said, new faces, that's going to happen every single year in this league. And, you know, we understand that. So it's, it's how, how quickly can we get on the same page and actually thought, communication wise and just what we were, you know, trying to get an understanding of what we were trying to do. I felt like we were really good. Yes, now it's just kind of executing what we're, what we're trying to get done. And that, that, that will come, you know, I think we got a, we got a really good group. That's going to make sure that that is done. But man, I, I really like this group. I think it's a fast physical group. And I think it's a group that wants to make a lot of plays. So, you know, obviously, disappointed a little bit in terms of the things that, you know, we couldn't do, but then no means, you know, discouraged from, from what the future holds for sure. Well, definitely you get, you know, defense, you got to go back and watch the film, create, find a way to be able to kind of manage those mistakes on the offensive side of the ball. And a guy that, I think there's a lot of unselfish players on this team, TJ, when you think about everybody, especially on the offensive side.

11:17And I got like Jade Walker, right? Not only making blocks for his running backs, going down and making a tackle on special teams and then scoring a touchdown, what does it say for a guy like him and undraft the guy to be able to be making plays, but being a big part of all three phases of the game? Yeah, man, he is, he is constant energy all the time. A guy who, again, kind of ignites, you know, and he makes a play, he kind of ignites the sideline. Just just really cool to see him out there flying around. I think there's a couple of times last year that, you know, he wins a lot on kickoff, man. Sometimes it's just, he gets, like, turned out at the point of attack on the tackle, but so I know he was itching. He was absolutely itching yesterday to go out there and go make a play. So I saw the one kickoff where he beats his guy and just throw throws it in there, man. And instantly up, talking, you know, doing, doing his thing. And then he's going to touch down pass, making blocks, all those things, doing his little

12:19moonwalk thing, man. It's really cool to see a guy who just works as a butt off, man. So I'm just, I'm just really happy for him, really. I'm talking with TJ Edwards here in Holland, Peyton Chicago Sports Radio 104-3, the score another couple minutes with the Bears linebacker. So TJ, yesterday the Bears and the Panthers set a record for week one in terms of points scored in an opener across a league, ten team scored, 30 or more points, six scored 24 in the first half. I wonder what you think about linking that offensive outburst in week one to the way teams consistently are treating preseason. Starters aren't necessarily playing. It's harder on defenses maybe to get those fundamentals down when there's a lack of contact throughout the preseason and training camp. I thought it was interesting that you wanted to play or at least that was the way it was reported against the Titans for a couple series just to get maybe used to the speed of the game again. Is there any link between week one's offensive outbursts and the way teams are treating preseason?

13:21I don't know, I think that's interesting. I think week one's always interesting just because there's tape from years prior if there's same coordinators or some things in the preseason, but there is a lot of new looks that teams are seeing for the first time too. So it's a lot of unscouted things that are happening. I can speak for us. There's definitely not a lack of contact in training camp in preseason. So we've definitely made sure that we've got to work in to kind of prime our bodies for what happens during the season. But no, I think that's interesting. I don't know what to think in terms of how other teams do it, but I know for us, man, I'm training camp is real for us to get ourselves ready. So I think it'll benefit us in the long run I do. What's funny that you asked that question, David, because it is, you've got to find ways

14:21to kind of get acclimated to the game when you're, I know you guys are hitting, but also the game's situations. And so hats off to you for wanting to get that feeling again of being in that game. How much benefit is it to go up against your offense every single day? Because Caleb in this offense seemed to be rolling in week one, but you get a chance to be able to go up against these guys and practice how they helped you kind of figure out things that maybe need to get better on the defensive side. Yeah, I mean, it's a everyday challenge, like you said. I mean, they are very explosive. I think just up front, right? So solid up front in the run game and the different things that they do in the run games thematically just makes you kind of have to be good on all fronts. So they're a great challenge for us, man, every single day. It was cool to see them go up against somebody else to be honest with you, but no, I'm in so many weapons. And I think, you know, even just times where Caleb scrambled around in practice and you're

15:22like, man, they would have got him and then you look at the game like, all right, they definitely didn't didn't get him. So it was cool. They didn't get him because of the type of quarterback he has become, whether it's escaping pressure in the pocket or everything about his command. I don't know if the field has been noticeable this season, TJ in terms of the growth of Caleb Williams. You've been here forever. He's step of the way since he was drafted through yesterday's record performance. How would you describe just the ascent that he has gone on and where this might be headed? Yeah, man, 18 is special. I think, you know, one thing that I just appreciate about him is I feel like he comes in every single day and just goes to work. He's a guy who, honestly, since he's came in, I think, you know, first round pick, husband trophy winner, all those things, but man, he's just a dude that loves the game. And you see him in the place that he can make, obviously, his arm talent and all that is special, man, it's different for sure.

16:24And we've seen some things in practice too, we're like, that is different. But man, I think a guy who's, again, even his leadership wise, how far he's come with that and what he says carries weight and the guy on game day just wants to compete, man. So he's special in the command that he has and, you know, just his relationships that he has with guys in the team. It's really cool, man. And it's cool to see 18 doing what 18 does for sure. Speaking of cool things. I know TJ is always cool to be able to see one of your boys get a bag, you know what I mean? It's always good. And that extension for Dianne Dray Swift. I mean, a lot of talk about him going into coming into the season about how he was working during camp. He did not let the money kind of kind of, kind of overshadow just his play on the field and picked up where he left off monster game for him yesterday. He brings so much to the table, not just running the ball, past protection and also out

17:25of the backfield catching passes. Yeah, man, I mean so happy for him, like so happy for him, obviously close relationship with him and just how hard he's worked, man. And kind of the journey that he's been on, I got so much respect for that guy. But I even feel like, you know, last year and then coming into this year, man, he's looked so comfortable and confident in what he's doing. You know, we were talking to him just after some training camp practices of just in, you know, in between the tackles out in space and past pro, like he's complete. He really is. So to see him get rewarded for the work that he's put in and again, a guy who doesn't want any drama or anything like that, man, he just wants to play ball. So I just, I'm so happy for him, you know, a guy who deserves it all really, really earned everything that he's gotten. And you know, to see it, see it get rewarded. It's really cool. It is. That's saying for you, TJ, really appreciate your time this morning. So after you get done celebrating this first victory of the season, you look ahead and

18:25the Vikings come to town for the home opener Sunday at Soldier Field. They likely will be caught back by Carson Wentz, your former teammate from Philadelphia. Wonder if you remember being teammates with Carson Wentz and how this Viking challenge you'll prepare for that and how big of it one, it is. Yeah, yeah, man. Just saw the kind of the end of the game yesterday. So got a quick little look at him. But now it's, I mean, first just excited just to be at home and play in front of our fans. There's, there's nothing better. It really is in play in front of the city of Chicago and, you know, home opener. I know it's going to be, I know it's going to be packed against a really good opponent. They provided a ton of challenges, though. And, you know, you know, Carson, I was with Carson for a couple of years, but known for a while, you know, seen him in the offices in a couple of times, just talked to him really, really good dude. Nobody's capable of, you know, in terms of arm talent, in terms of, I was, he's seen a lot of things. He's seen a lot of football. So it's not a ton that's going to fool him by any means. So it'll be a good challenge for us, man, for sure.

19:27And, you know, and I've seen North Games, it means a lot. But we're excited, man. We're excited to look at his tape today, you know, and then start our process off, man, and get in front of our fans. And it's going to be jumping for sure. TJ, thank you so much for your time. Congratulations on getting back on the field and then winning yesterday. Look forward to all the Mondays ahead. Yes, sir. Appreciate you guys. TJ Edwards bears linebacker talking about the bears 59 to 37 victory over the Carolina Panthers. All right, back to the phone calls back to your text 3126446767. What did you love? What didn't you like? Let us know what you think. Where are you here? Han, Payton, Chicago Sports Radio, 1043, the score. Hey, all right. It's almost here. Are you ready? Just grabbing my shoes. That's what you said 10 minutes ago. I just wrapped the video call, uploading this giant file on my tablet, looking at my watch group and Nana's with the group chat, and of course, still lining up tonight's playlist on my phone. All at once?

20:27Yep, story of my life. That's why I switched to D-Mobile. They have the fastest 5G network. Okay, multitasker. I see you. Honestly, I never imagined I could do all this at once. It's awesome. Say no more. I'm totally switching. My post is taking way too long to upload. That's a sign you've got to get T-Mobile. So many reasons to join T-Mobile. Find yours at T-Mobile.com. Fastest based on analysis by Uclos Beat Test Intelligence data of national speed score results incorporating 5G download and upload speeds for the first half of 2026. Exploring your college options or thinking about transferring? Come experience McKendry University. Join us for preview day on Saturday, October 3rd. Meet faculty and students. Explore academic programs. Learn about financial aid. Tour campus and enjoy lunch on us. Camping October 3rd. Schedule an individual campus visit anytime that fits your schedule.

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23:37I think, you know, one thing that I just appreciate about him is I feel like he comes in every single day and just goes to work. He's he's a guy who, you know, honestly, since he's came in, I think, you know, first time, pay, he has been trope in all those things, but man, he's just a dude that loves the game. And you see, you see him in the place that he can make, obviously his arm talent and all that is special, man. It's different for sure. And we've seen some things in practice too, we're like, that is that is different. But man, I think a guy who's again, even his leadership wise, though how far he's come with that and what he says carries weight and a guy on game day just wants to repeat, man. So he's he's special in the command that he has and, you know, just his relationships that he has with guys in the team. It's it's really cool, man. And it's it's cool to see 18 doing what 18 does for sure. Welcome back to on page, Chicago sports radio, 104, three, the score TJ Edwards, who was outstanding. Day after the game, he played all 68 snaps, defense didn't have a great day,

24:41but he had really good insight, Jer into how this team necessarily was defense will rebound, but how this team feels about Caleb Williams. He's a leader on that team. He saw him come into the league. He's seen him grow up. And now he's watching this, whatever this becomes. Yesterday was this feels like to be getting of something pretty special. Yeah, not only that, he gets a chance to go up against him and see him and practice every single day. So he's starting to see how this transition is starting to move where this young man is starting to understand the game. It's slowing down a little bit for him. His understanding of what Ben wants him to do, but then also to what he feels and what he does so well. I mean, he's playing within the pocket. And then he can kill you on the outside of the pocket as well and have exposed a place because of the arm talent. It's so special. So I think we're starting to see this all start to round itself out where he has the chance of having a monster year in 2026.

25:41So we'll get back to the phone lines in a moment. 3126, 446, 67, 67. A lot of people want to weigh in and I get it. I felt like Caleb Williams, you may have referenced it earlier. Two things stood out to me that had very little to do with like the physical pinpoint accuracy that things that are just his natural gifts that pasticle commit was something that only a few quarterbacks you think could make that throw the intangibles. The sensing in the pocket went to escape pressure that innate in that sense of just when to know when somebody's there and he spins out of things and he just that's uncanny that pocket presence. But the other thing is just how we increasingly shows command and understanding of what to say and when to say it. And I thought he had his coaches back after the game in a way that represented how much he has grown as a leader and not only just that he defended Ben Johnson, but it was in the way that he did so that stood out to me. This was Caleb Williams addressing that controversial fourth down call,

26:45fourth and one, the quarterback sneak that Ben Johnson had to answer for after the game. When your coach goes for it, four to two, oh yeah, 21. What does that say to you guys? Yeah, we got to go get it. That's that's what it says to us as players in the field when coach has that belief, when coach has that trust, when coach has that faith in and all of that. And us, we got to go get it as players when he calls it doesn't matter what the play is. It's a mentality play when you're fourth and one. That's that's what it comes down to. And so we'll be better than that. I know coach, you know, he'll probably speak one of things like that. But, you know, we got to be better and go get it. Cause like I said, it's a mentality play at that point. I love that, Jared. It's a mentality play. You know why? Fourth and one, it's a mentality. Yeah, I hate the call. I hate this game situation. And I think Ben Johnson was overly reckless in that situation. He that was he's entitled to one pet decision a game, I suppose. But I love the way that Caleb Williams defended it. You he you're weighing the risk and reward.

27:47Early on game one. Let's see what let's see what we're all made of. We're coming out of the summer. Let's see what my team's made up because at some point as the season goes on, David, and you are going there, there's going to be a play like this where they have to come back. And so by listening to the quarterback, have his his, his head coach is back saying, we got to go get it. We got to be better. We if he calls it, he believes in us, we got to go get it. That's that's what they're priming this offense up for down the line. I don't like the call either. I'd rather I didn't like the play call. I'll take the play because I know who my head coach is. It's Ben Johnson. It's the gambler. I know. That's what he does. I know. But but but it's it's it's for it's not I always said it's not for us. It's for those guys that are inside of that huddle. But how many time you have that mentality? Hand the ball to be on their sweat. That's what is your guy. I call my none guy or either one. Give it to them. Yes. It's the right side of the line is good for you. Go right. It is it is it always treats you well. You go to that right side.

28:48Good things happen. Go right behind right. See? It's the right thing to do and more ways than one back to the phone lines. Three one two six, 44, 67, 67 Archie is on the Odyssey app. Archie, thank you for waiting on hold. Welcome to Han Peyton. Hey, man. What's going on? So my issue. We did great. Offense look good this time around, you know, protecting the quarterback like they should not giving up a lot. However, the man, Jayland Johnson and Stevenson, bro, like they something got to happen. They look like track, man. Like getting burnt. Eight like he getting burnt deep. He just looked terrible. I didn't I mean, you know, I'm excited for the season. Also staying humble because we know, you know, as bearers fans, it's going to go left real quick. So. Okay. Thanks for the phone call, Archie. You know what? I hear he's got a good point. The quarterback play was not as tight as you want it to be as it will need to be.

29:51For coming into game one, that's that's what we were. We're a lot of the conversations that we were having. We're about Jayland and how good he was. And I think over time, I know it's one game. But let's can we give this a little bit of a sample size. Let's let's look at the next three games. It's going to be another test next that coming up this Sunday. So the cocker that was for real. I know they got they got. They got. It's 138 yards long a 51 to touchdowns. And you know who's coming in Sunday? Yeah. Jay Jay Jay. You see the thing he's wearing. Yeah. He's got that's got to add like a tenth of a second to your 40 time. I mean, the swag is heavy. There. But he can do what he wants when he's that good. But the point is well taken. The secondary way too leaky way too leaky. And you need a little tighter coverage. Well, Tyrick Stevenson, I thought also missed a tackle. There were some missed tackles there that were concerning. Yes. When you when you give up 37 points, there's not a lot to look at and say in terms of positives,

30:52except for you won the game by 22 points. But you still have to figure out how to get after opposing quarterbacks. That's still that that still has not been answered. No. I mean, you got the Contaivist streets had had had him himself a day and talk. The conversation with him all through summer was he was playing some good football. You know what you're going to get out of Montess. What you got to sack out of him yesterday. But where else is it coming from? Austin Booker, Dio Dango, they those guys have to show up more on the stat sheet. If you're going to you want to help out those guys on the outside, you need some pressure because yesterday, Bryce Young, which is sitting in there making Gatorade, going through plays. Bryce Young was better than I thought he would be. He was he was showing that you give any quarterback time in the NFL these days. They'll dice you up. Come on. Back to the phone lines. Christian is on the Odyssey app. Christian, thank you for joining Haun Peyton. How are you? I think good. Good. Good. Yeah. Oh, yeah. So my main thing is like, I think we friends played a really important role this game

31:55for being burned as a wires you with the rig and as a special game guy. He played a really good role in the team like targeting receptions and yards. Thank you. Who's that? Who do you say played a pretty good game? Oh, Luther, burden the third. Yeah, he fumbled on the first drive and you thought, well, that's, didn't that, it's not starting well. Well, when you wave it it off, you can't fumble. No block, no rock. You got to, if you ask him to block, you got to protect the rock. Everything's good when you win. You can, you can gloss over that stuff. I guess so. Because it's, it's about how, how did you rebound after that thing? Things just happen. I understand it's that first series. I would have loved for them to go out and go down the field and score, but it's all about to how do you let that go and then move forward and he moved forward. That's what I love. There was a down and in. There was a long in a deep in route where he just, Caleb Williams put the ball exactly where it needed to be between the defenders. Luther, burdened third, put up his hands and just it was in stride. And that was what you saw.

32:56Wow. That ball had some heat on it. He caught it in stride like it was nothing. And that's why I think he is special. So yeah, that was made it easier to forget the fumble. Yeah, it is, but I still can't get that throw. That throw to co-commit St. Biders very own co-commit. How about that? Look at you. I want to buy your pump and St. You should have seen me win Friday. No, they didn't. I'm sorry about that. Don't worry about it. 815. This is the NFL in 2026, named five NFL secondaries that did look sharp. Against these offenses. I'll wait. Oh, very funny. OK. There you go. You can't use the rest of league's deficiency to justify your own weakness. No, but it's a, it's a definite problem, though. It is. Yeah. I really. Offences are headed the defenses. Yes. And as of right now, we got an offense that can, that can score with the best of them. TJ Edwards kind of shot down my theory that the lack of contact in pre- preseason and training camp led to what happened yesterday. Not for this team. I guess you're right.

33:56He's saying they, they hitting a little bit. I think maybe the Bears are more physical and training camp than maybe most teams. Addicto 11. It's only, but I think you have to though up front and being as good as they were in the ground game yesterday. Vic is injustice. Vic, welcome to Han Peyton. Hey, David. Can you hear me? I can hear you, Vic. What up, Vic? Not much, man. I'm calling to apologize to you, bro. I called a station about two years ago. And I said, Chicago media is the worst in the nation. I was adjusting fields, guys. And I was watching Caleb Lansson. I said, damn, if this boy's going to look like this, I can get it by adjusting. But you was hyping them up. Good job, bro. Good job. We got a real one. And you were real one too. Thanks, Vic. Hey, Vic. Good memory. Much love, man. Appreciate the phone call. How about that? It's a somebody with a good memory, pre-draft. That was that was the feels in this town.

34:58Man, people didn't want to give up on Justin. But now they now they see 18 and they're like, oh, I see, I see why the move was made. I I I think thank you for the phone call. Thank you for the memory. No apology necessary. Everyone's got an opinion. But we did get a Texas warning. Did you ever wonder how Justin feels would play in Ben Johnson's office? I saw that. Not for a minute. You haven't even thought about that. Not even once. Jared, no. Not even once. I think about it all the time. I think about it all the time. Speaking of the chiefs tonight, Patrick Behaum's makes his return. Oh my goodness. Can you believe that he's going to start this soon after? You wait, hold on. You think about it all the time? Yes. I just think about what could Justin progress with a guy like Ben Johnson. That's what I think about it. I think it's a really interesting topic as well. Interesting. Will we see speaking of John, will we see it? Justin Fields tonight, like will they have a package for Justin? Maybe I don't think why are you guys stuck in the Justin Fields era?

36:00No, we're not stuck. Did you not see what happened yesterday? At the same time, no, to be fair, Ben Johnson may not have come to the bearers. Justin Fields was what he was going to work with. Because he chose, he chose to come work with what? Yes. I understand that Dustin. No, I'm just. And you are right. But I'm thinking about he's never really had a guy like that. Now he does win Endary, but you got you got Patrick Mahomes. That's the way. He did the way. All right. Well, maybe maybe we'll see if you see like Fields tonight in the back field with Mahomes in some type of a design. If we do, if he does, that will do a segment tomorrow on that. The entire segment on the cheese back here. Can Dustin do it on 670, the score by the way? 670, the score tonight. Cubs will be on 1043. Yes. We're doing this. The duel. The split. Yeah, it's going to be a lot of fun. A lot of stuff going on tonight. A lot of football still. This week one is lasted forever. Started on Wednesday, ends on a Monday. It never ends. The NFL is back, baby. So A4-7 says, the dude I couldn't hear, the dude is calling me a dude.

37:05He said, Klee Freeman. Okay. Klee Freeman definitely had a big day. We talked about that earlier. Played like a one. Yep. He did. He played like a guy that if not a one, somebody who you can definitely trust on third downs in tough spots, the safety valve that every quarterback needs. Someone that understands this offense in this scheme too. Certainly does that. That Caleb feels comfortable with that knows is going to be able to make plays when he needs him. And I think having that safety blanket of a guy that's a vet that's been around that's done it before, I think it goes a long way. So we saw that yesterday. We saw that yesterday. All right. 312, 644, 67, 67. It's time coming up at 9, but we'll take more of your calls, more of your texts and more of your reminiscence of the Justin Fields era, if you wish. And wondering what Ben Johnson might have done with him. No, no, we're talking about the MVP candidate in town. Number 18, because he is special. It's on page Chicago Sports Radio 1-0-4-3 this school. Hey, all right. It's almost here. Are you ready? Just grabbing my shoes.

38:05That's what you said 10 minutes ago. I just wrapped a video call, uploading this giant file on my tablet, looking at my watch goop and Nana's with the group chat. And of course, still lining up tonight's playlist on my phone. All at once? Yep, story of my life. That's why I switched to T-Mobile. They have the fastest 5G network. Okay, multi-tasker. I see you. Honestly, I never imagined I could do all this at once. It's awesome. Say no more, I'm totally switching. My post is taking way too long to upload. That's a sign you've got to get T-Mobile. So many reasons to join T-Mobile. Find yours at T-Mobile.com. Fastest based on analysis by Uglospeed Test Intelligence data of National Speed School results in cooperating 5G download and upload speeds for the first half of 2026. A beautifully designed square space website is the difference between thinking about

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40:09On row, you can access GLP1 options, including the first FDA approved GLP1 pill for weight loss. Go to row.co-slash-jerny to see if you qualify. 14 to 20% average weight loss in one year in non-diabetics with obesity or overweight with weight-related medical condition versus 2.2% to 3.1% in placebo art. RX only to stay informed about serious side effects. Go to row.co-slash-safety. Think about how much life has changed since 1991. Back then, you had to rewind the VHS tapes. Dial up internet was a distant dream and listening to your favorite host's on-demand wasn't even an option. Yet through all that change, Bob's discount furniture has kept doing things the Bob's way, offering incredible quality and modern features without inflating their prices. Look at the Sedona power reclining sofa. It packs genuine leather. Bob a pedic seating, built in charging and handy cup holders all into one setup for

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42:11at Pittsburgh against Chicago. What'd you see today in year two, game one in this Ben Johnson system for Caleb Williams? He just looked like a player that was in total command of what he was doing. We're very familiar with Caleb's talent. His arm talent, his ability to extend players and run. And there was a comfort ability there that was really impressive. And I'm not surprised. He's in year two of the system. It boasts well for 2026 in the banners. Chicago fans should be excited. The rest of the NFC North should be very frightened by what we saw today. Welcome back to Ha and Peyton, Chicago's sports radio. 104th 3th of school. Mike Tomlin outstanding debut. His first regular season game and the NBC broadcast and he's going from the sidelines to broadcasting in the analyst role and he was terrific. And he said the NFC North should be frightened. I got a chuckle out of that, Jared.

43:12And I think that when you look at what Caleb Williams did, the numbers don't tell the story. The numbers are numbers. They're very, I think above average. I think they are 21 for 29 to 69. Passer-rated 124.1 outstanding. But they don't tell you just exactly. It doesn't really match the excitement level. A Bears fan should feel after that 59 point uppers. Because you have to watch it. You have to watch the game. You can look at the numbers all you want to. Things believing. But it's it's seeing him and having it. And everybody that's watched Caleb since he's put on a Bears uniform, they can see now that the command is there. I mean, he was efficient in the pocket, but he was also deadly when he had to get outside the pocket. Plays broke down. I told you the ability to be able to see everything, to stay chill and calm. When things break down, the uses feet to escape is what makes him deadly.

44:16So we saw kind of the full package yesterday, the whole package. And he was, he looked in command of this Bears offense. And that should scare people. That should scare the other teams in the NFC North. They should be on notice. Because they all knew they'd run. Ryan Floors is scared of nothing. I know he's not, but they would come after Caleb Williams. And then it'll come after him and he'll come after him again. Okay. You know what I want to see then? I want to see some hot routes. So I want to see check downs. Ben is going to be able to scheme things as well. That offensive line is going to have to be able to hold up. And we know what Brian Follower likes to bring pressure. So they're going to have to be all set on that offensive line. But at some point though, with his legs, you got to watch out how much pressure you do bring. You can't just, you can't overload it. You got to look out for the quarterback as a runner. Yes. You got to come after a quarterback with blitzes. And if the ground game is working like it was against the Panthers, now that's in a hole, another added dimension to this that you have to, you have to start putting nine

45:17in the box. How are we going to stop this? And then now you got a bunch of skill position players. You literally have to pick your poison with this bear's offense. We've seen a couple of phone calls before Biggs time. Mitch is in Arlington Heights. Mitch, welcome to Holland Payton. I just want to say that the bear team reminds me of the old Washington Redskins where they let you in the game until half time after half time you're done. The 49er defense were kept you in the game. There was not the best defense in the capture in the game. And then you won. Thanks, Mitch. Appreciate the phone call. Don't know if I saw a lot of the Joe Gibbs era. Washington probably not. franchise when I watched the Bears yesterday, but it's a good reference point. Everyone's going to have their own reference point, especially with the Bears make history. That was history yesterday. They, they've never been that many two teams scored that many points in a season opener in the NFL. You and I were both wrong with our predictions. Oh, right for a half. I had 31 27 and that was pretty much the halftime score. Then things got very interesting.

46:19Jeff, on the Odyssey app is listening. Jeff, thanks for your patience. Welcome to Holland Payton. Hey, good morning, gentlemen. No song today for you guys, but I'm a little concerned about the Ben's call on the fourth and two. You love the aggressiveness. We love the coach, but you got to remember you're, you've got to put your team in the best position to win a game. They don't have to win by 30. They just have to win a game. And when you get to the last game of the season, you run to be the last team standing. Decisions you make can can alter that and Dan Campbell found that out. We found that out last fall or last winter when he did not kick a field goal against the Rams. You got to take points when you got them and you got to make smart decisions. You can make all the right calls up to a point, but if you make one bad call or one bad decision, it can cost you your season in the end. Right now we're living high on the hog. We're enjoying what we saw yesterday, but I'm a little scared because when I hear a

47:19few callers start calling in and saying, hey, that's just the way he is. That's how we played all year. That's what they said about the Lions and that Lions window is shutting fast on Dan Campbell and that team. I don't want to get to that point, but hey, we won. It was joyful. Love it. And next week we got the Vikings and for for Jared, your old man, he had the greatest run I've ever saw. It wasn't against the city game. It was against Minnesota where he broke six tackles carried three guys into the end zone in the old Viking stadium. Let's go. Thanks, Jeff. Thanks, Jeff. I remember that one, but Jeff, it wasn't callers that were saying that. That was me saying that. Right. That's who he is. Yeah, no. One more thought on the fourth and short call from Adam in Mount Prospect. Adam, thanks for joining what? Hard Peyton. Thanks for taking my call, gentlemen. How you doing today? Good. Well, a comment for Jared.

48:22Once upon a time when I was a sophomore in high school, I was up my uncle Henry and we're on the lakefront in Rogers Park. And we're just enjoying the day of the spring break and there's your father running past us. And he said, you did not just see what the Peyton run past us did you. And I said, no, it's a good boy. And the question I had is for the fourth and short yesterday. I could be wrong here, but why did they go to the right and why did they not shift to the left and give it to Monangai or Swift who are big enough and flash and up and strong enough to get that short yardage? And I'm not surprised to win for the fourth and short, but I am surprised on that particular call. Good question, Adam. I appreciate the phone call. Yeah, that's how I feel. I mean, I know that this is what Ben Johnson likes to do. So for me, I'm ready for it when these situations kind of arise. I am a little bit skeptical on the play call. If you're going to do it and you're going to gamble, please give it to your dudes who

49:25have been running the ball who you trust. And also, too, keep your quarterback out of harm's way. Yes. It happens in those moments when you're trying to quarterback, sneak and take shots. The one on the goal line as well, when he's trying to jump over the pile, what are we doing here? Protect the goose that laid the golden egg, man. That's 18. You're listening to a plumbers 911 football Monday presented by UC Bank and great clips. When we come back, it's that time. Check your watches. Look at the clock. Bigs time. Next on hot page Chicago sports radio, 1043, the score. Hey, all right, almost here. Are you ready? Just grabbing my shoes. That's what you said 10 minutes ago. I just wrapped a video call, uploading this giant file on my tablet, looking at my watch goop and Nana's with the group chat, and of course, still lining up tonight's playlist on my phone. All at once? Yep, story of my life. That's why I switched to T-Mobile. They have the fastest 5G network. Okay, multitasker.

50:25I see you. Honestly, I never imagined I could do all this at once. It's awesome. Say no more. I'm totally switching. My post is taking way too long to upload. That's a sign you've got to get T-Mobile. So many reasons to join T-Mobile. Find yours at T-Mobile.com. Fastest based on analysis by Uclav Speed Test Intelligence data of national speed score results in cooperating 5G download and upload speeds for the first half of 2026. Exploring your college options or thinking about transferring? Come experience McKendry University. Join us for preview day on Saturday, October 3rd. Meet faculty and students. Explore academic programs. Learn about financial aid, tour campus, and enjoy lunch on us. Camp Make October 3rd. Schedule an individual campus visit anytime that fits your schedule. Disturfer preview day or plan your visit today at mckendry.edu-visit.

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