The Charter: A Chicago Bears Podcast

Bears victorious over Rams as the Under Center Podcast signs off for the last episode

As you may know, NBC Sports Chicago’s 20-year run serving Chicago’s passionate fans, its partners, and community is coming to a close on Monday, Sept. 30. This is our final episode of Under Center Podcast. Kenneth Davis and Josh Schrock break down the Bears' thrilling win over the Rams. Caleb Williams had his best performance as a pro. However, lingering miscues with his receivers show there’s still room for growth (1:00). The guys celebrate the Bears' improved run blocking, which paved the way for a breakout day from Roschon Johnson and D'Andre Swift (7:00). They reflect on the return of Keenan Allen (13:45) and continue to address the team's ongoing offensive line struggles (15:30). The defense stepped up against Matthew Stafford. At the same time, penalties remain a thorn in the Bears’ side (18:00). Ken and Josh share heartfelt goodbyes as they sign off for the final time (26:36). We thank our viewers, readers, listeners, and followers for their incredible support over the last two decades. If you are a subscriber of the Under Center Podcast, you will automatically receive podcast episodes from the new Chicago Sports Network.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Caleb Williams’ talent, Shane Waldron questions ahead of Bears-Rams with Jourdan Rodrigue

Kenneth Davis and Josh Schrock are joined by The Athletic's Jourdan Rodrigue to break down the Bears’ Week 4 clash against the Rams. They kick things off by discussing Bears fans' growing frustration with offensive coordinator Shane Waldron and whether it's time for concern (1:57). The crew also dives into Chicago’s struggles with their running game (8:40) and why the offense hasn't been able to adapt (7:18). They explore what Sean McVay or Matt LaFleur would do to better acclimate Caleb Williams to the NFL (12:06) and how the Rams managed to beat the 49ers despite several major injuries (16:42). They then look at Matthew Stafford’s impressive play (19:16), key areas the Bears could exploit (23:12), and weaknesses in the Rams’ secondary (25:57). Finally, they predict whether the Bears can capitalize or if the banged-up Rams will pull off another win (29:17).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Poor coaching dooms Caleb Williams, Bears in loss vs. Colts

On this episode of the Under Center Podcast, Kenneth Davis, Josh Schrock, and Glynn Morgan break down the Bears' 21-16 loss to the Indianapolis Colts in Week 3. The trio dissect quarterback Caleb Williams' performance and criticize the Bears' poor offensive plan that had the rookie throw 52 passes. They discuss the option call on fourth-and-goal that cost the Bears points and analyze why offensive coordinator Shane Waldron's plan of attack. Then, they talk about the Bears' inability to run the ball. Next, they look at head coach Matt Eberflus' poor clock management that cost the Bears a critical timeout in the loss. The guys then flip over to the defensive side of the ball to break down a good performance against Anthony Richardson. They finish by wondering if the Bears' decision to keep Eberflus is already harming Caleb Williams.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

How can Bears’ offense, Caleb Williams get going vs. Colts?

Colts PA announcer, writer for Colts.com and podcast host JJ Stankevitz joins Kenneth Davis and Josh Schrock to preview the Bears' crucial Week 3 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts. JJ shares his thoughts on the Bears' 1-1 start and their struggling offense (3:10). While evaluating Caleb Williams' performance so far, he discusses why he thinks the rookie QB will get better as the season goes on (4:40). They also discuss what JJ learned about Matt Eberflus when the Bears coach was Indy’s defense (6:23), the battle between the Bears' run game and the Colts' defense (9:42), and whether the Colts can exploit Chicago's weak offensive line (12:16). They break down how the Bears can contain Anthony Richardson (16:03), how Colts offensive coordinator Shane Steichen is developing Richardson (18:00), and how Eberflus might make life tough for the second year QB (20:43). Don't miss the predictions for Sunday's game (25:00)!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Caleb Williams, Bears’ offense fall flat in troubling loss vs. Texans

Kenneth Davis and Josh Schrock dive into the Bears' 19-13 loss to the Houston Texans that saw quarterback Caleb Williams face constant pressure. They discuss where the blame lies for the Bears' slow start (0:36), including major issues on the offensive line (2:00) and Ryan Poles’ struggles to select the right personnel (7:15). The guys break down Caleb Williams’ shaky performance under pressure (14:46) and dissect how the lack of a running game is hurting the rookie QB (10:00). While the offense needs serious improvement (19:00), the Bears' defense delivered a statement. The duo analyzes how the Bears' defense stifled C.J. Stroud, highlighting Tyrique Stevenson’s play and their success in containing a strong Texans offense (24:36). How can the Bears bounce back against the Colts in Week 3? Tune in for the full breakdown!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bears vs. Texans preview: Can Caleb Williams match C.J. Stroud’s success?

On a new Under Center Podcast, Jonathan Alexander from the Houston Chronicle joins Kenneth Davis and Josh Schrock to dive into the Bears' upcoming clash against the Texans on Sunday Night Football. They explore whether Caleb Williams can follow in the footsteps of CJ Stroud (2:00), and Jonathan reflects on when he first realized Stroud and the Texans had something special. Alexander also details how Stroud’s teammates came to believe in him. They discuss how the Texans’ vital QB-offensive coordinator relationship developed (8:09). Then, they dissect the Texans' improved run game (10:51), and look at how Stefon Diggs is fitting in after his departure from the Bills (13:50). Later, they look at how the Texans aim to prevent big plays (15:40), if they can exploit the Bears' interior offensive line weakness (17:22), and the rise of Will Anderson as a leader (18:50). They wrap up with predictions and a look at how the Bears' defense can stop Stroud and the Texans' offense in this highly anticipated matchup (22:30).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Caleb Williams’ ugly NFL debut saved by Bears’ defense in historic win vs. Titans

On this episode of the Under Center Podcast, Kenneth Davis, Josh Schrock, and Alex Shapiro break down the Bears' victory over the Titans in Week 1. They start off by discussing how Caleb Williams looked in his NFL debut (00:58). Were Williams' struggles expected or are they cause for concern? They also discuss the offensive line's poor play and the impact it had on the Bears' non-existent run game (17:20). Later, they break down the performance of the Bears’ defense and pinpoint which player stood out the most (30:00). Finally, they discuss how the special teams looked, including Velus Jones Jr.’s latest muffed kick return and the blocked punt that Jonathan Owens returned for a touchdown (42:15).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Bears vs. Titans preview: Can Tennessee stop Caleb Williams?

Kenneth Davis and Alex Shapiro team up with Tyler Rowland from the Locked on Titans Podcast to preview the Bears' season opener against the Titans! (0:45) Can the Titans find a way to slow down Caleb Williams and the Bears' high-powered offense? Tyler shares insights into Titans QB Will Levis' growth and expectations for this year (2:56), while the crew discusses how Bears offensive coordinator Shane Waldron can exploit the Titans' defense (5:09). They dive into the identity of Tennessee's run game post-Derrick Henry and whether free agent Tony Pollard can replace his production (7:09). Plus, an in-depth look at the Bears' running back group (13:00), a breakdown of Kevin Byard (16:50), and a matchup of the Bears' elite defensive backs vs. the Titans’ wide receivers (19:30). Lastly, can the Titans pull off the upset as the Bears head in as favorites (32:03)? Tune in for all the predictions!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Hard Knocks finale: Ryan Poles’ tough calls, Caleb Williams’ montage, and Bears’ new identity

Kenneth Davis and Alex Shapiro dive into the final episode of Hard Knocks, reacting to the intense roster cuts and Ryan Poles' toughest decision (6:30). They break down the epic Caleb Williams throwing montage (11:16) and discuss whether this Bears team has a unique vibe compared to past seasons (14:05). Can Poles become a standout GM in the NFL (19:35)? Plus, they debate whether keeping Velus Jones was the right move (28:16) and crown the big winners of this season's Hard Knocks (32:25).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Ryan Poles’ vision for Caleb Williams, WR room overhaul, and ’Hard Knocks’’ best episode yet

On the latest Under Center podcast, Kenneth Davis and Alex Shapiro break down key takeaways from Ryan Poles' post-cut-down day press conference, including his expectations for Caleb Williams this season (1:23). They discuss why Caleb doesn't need to be Superman—just a point guard delivering to playmakers (4:00). The hosts dive into how Poles transformed the Bears' wide receiver room into one of the NFL's best (15:20) and debate his optimistic view of the offensive line (20:17). They also review what might be the best episode of Hard Knocks this season, including heartfelt and humanizing moments from the show (28:53). Plus, get the latest updates from Bears practice and how Velus Jones Jr.'s dual role could benefit the team (45:10).See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.