On August 10, 2024, the Chicago Bears delivered a commanding 33-6 victory over the Buffalo Bills in their NFL preseason opener at Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park, New York. This game showcased the debut of Bears’ rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and a relentless defense that recorded seven sacks. This article provides a unique, verified breakdown of player stats, key moments, and analysis, designed to rank highly for fans searching for “Chicago Bears vs. Buffalo Bills 2024 player stats,” “Caleb Williams preseason debut,” and “NFL preseason game recaps.” All data is sourced from trusted outlets like ESPN, NFL.com, and FOX Sports for accuracy and reliability.
Chicago Bears vs Buffalo Bills Match Player Stats
- Sport: 🏈 American Football
- League: NFL (National Football League) – Preseason
- Date: August 10, 2024
- Location: Highmark Stadium, Orchard Park, New York
- Matchup: Chicago Bears vs. Buffalo Bills
- Result: Chicago Bears won
- Final Score: Chicago Bears 33 – Buffalo Bills 6
Game Overview: Bears Crush Bills in Preseason Opener
The Chicago Bears (2-0 in the preseason) dominated the Buffalo Bills (0-1) in a one-sided affair, highlighting their defensive depth and offensive potential. Rookie QB Caleb Williams, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, impressed in limited action, while undrafted running back Ian Wheeler and a ferocious Bears defense stole the show. The Bills, resting key starters like Josh Allen, struggled to generate offense, managing only two field goals. This article offers a detailed look at player performances, verified stats, and critical game moments to engage NFL fans and analysts.
Player Stats and Standout Performances
Chicago Bears
Passing:
- Caleb Williams (QB): In his NFL preseason debut, Williams completed 4 of 7 passes for 95 yards, posting a 101.8 passer rating. His highlight was a 42-yard pass to D’Andre Swift, setting up an early field goal. Williams played one quarter, displaying poise and accuracy that excited Bears fans.
- Backup QBs: Tyson Bagent and others managed the game conservatively, with Chicago leaning on its run game and defense after Williams exited.
Rushing:
- Ian Wheeler (RB): The undrafted rookie was a revelation, rushing for 43 yards on 5 carries and scoring 2 touchdowns. His explosive runs in the second half strengthened his bid for a roster spot.
- D’Andre Swift (RB): Swift added 12 yards on 3 carries but made a significant impact in the passing game with a 42-yard reception.
Receiving:
- D’Andre Swift (RB): Led Bears receivers with 42 yards on 1 catch, showcasing his versatility as a dual-threat back.
- Keenan Allen (WR): Caught a 13-yard pass from Williams, converting a key third-and-4.
- Other Targets: Chicago’s passing attack was efficient but limited, with multiple players contributing to a balanced offensive effort.
Defense:
- Austin Booker (DE): A standout with 2.5 sacks and 4 solo tackles, Booker disrupted Buffalo’s offense relentlessly.
- Daniel Hardy (DE): Matched Booker’s intensity with 2.5 sacks, contributing to the Bears’ seven-sack performance.
- Micah Baskerville (LB): Delivered a game-changing 53-yard interception return for a touchdown (pick-six) in the fourth quarter, intercepting a pass intended for Bills RB Frank Gore Jr.
- Other Contributors: Defensive end Khalid Kareem and defensive tackle Zacch Pickens each added sacks, while the secondary held Buffalo to 156 passing yards.
Buffalo Bills
Passing:
- Shane Buechele (QB): Starting in place of Josh Allen, Buechele completed 6 of 10 passes for 51 yards but threw a costly interception that led to Baskerville’s pick-six.
- Ben DiNucci (QB): Struggled under pressure, completing 7 of 13 passes for 41 yards.
Rushing:
- Frank Gore Jr. (RB): Led the Bills with 23 yards on 7 carries but couldn’t break through Chicago’s stout defense.
- Darrynton Evans (RB): Managed 15 yards on 4 carries, with no significant impact.
Receiving:
- Tyrell Shavers (WR): Topped Buffalo’s receivers with 29 yards on 2 catches but failed to spark the offense.
- Other Targets: The Bills’ passing game lacked cohesion, with no receiver making a significant impact.
Defense:
- Dorian Williams (LB): Led the Bills with 5 tackles, but Buffalo’s defense struggled to contain Chicago’s balanced attack.
- Pass Rush: The Bills recorded just one sack, unable to disrupt Chicago’s quarterbacks effectively.
Key Moments and Game-Changing Plays
- Caleb Williams’ Electric Start: Williams’ 42-yard pass to Swift on his opening drive set the tone, showcasing his arm strength and decision-making.
- Bears’ Defensive Onslaught: Seven sacks, led by Booker and Hardy, overwhelmed Buffalo’s offensive line, limiting the Bills to 6 points.
- Micah Baskerville’s Pick-Six: The 53-yard interception return in the fourth quarter extended Chicago’s lead to 27-6, effectively sealing the game.
- Ian Wheeler’s Breakout Performance: Wheeler’s two rushing touchdowns in the second half highlighted his speed and vision, making him a fan favorite and roster contender.
Why This Game Matters for 2024
For the Chicago Bears, this game was a glimpse into their potential for the 2024 season. Caleb Williams’ efficient debut, combined with a dominant defense and emerging talents like Ian Wheeler and Austin Booker, positions Chicago as a team to watch in the NFC North. The Bears’ depth and versatility suggest they could exceed expectations in the regular season.
For the Buffalo Bills, the loss highlighted concerns about their depth. With starters like Josh Allen resting, the backups failed to generate offense, raising questions about roster readiness. Buffalo will need to address these issues before their next preseason game.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Bears and Bills
The Bears’ dominant performance sets a positive tone as they prepare for their next preseason game, with Caleb Williams and the defense likely to remain focal points. Fans can expect continued evaluation of roster hopefuls like Ian Wheeler and Austin Booker. For the Bills, this loss underscores the need to develop their depth players, particularly in the passing game, as they gear up for the regular season.
For the latest NFL preseason news, player stats, and game analysis, visit NFL.com or follow the Chicago Bears and Buffalo Bills on their official websites. Stay tuned for more updates as the 2024 NFL season approaches!
