The New Orleans Saints will travel to Soldier Field in a week 7 NFC showdown against the Chicago Bears. This matchup will feature two intriguing quarterbacks that were selected in the 2024 draft class, Spencer Rattler and Caleb Williams.
Rattler and Williams will face off for the first time in their NFL careers, but they're far from unfamiliar with each other. Both quarterbacks have gotten off to solid starts this season and are emerging as part of the leagues new wave of young and promising signal callers.
The two quarterbacks are fierce competitors and will both aim to display it by bringing their A game. This is a matchup a matchup fueled by familiarity, as the two share history with a competitive past.
Spencer Rattler getting benched for Caleb Williams is a turning point in both of their careers
Rattler and Williams have a unique history that dates back to their collegiate careers at the University of Oklahoma. Both quarterbacks were apart of the Sooners roster, with Williams eventually replacing Rattler as the starter mid season. This change followed after Williams rallied the squad from a 21 point deficit against the Texas Longhorns, a defining moment that marked a turning point in their respective careers.
Following that season, Williams transferred to USC, where continued to build a reputation as a dynamic quarterback, ultimately winning a Heisman trophy and becoming the number 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Meanwhile, Rattler transferred to the University of South Carolina where he worked to refine his skills and prove that he was still a capable NFL prospect. He views this benching as a turning point that ultimately set him on a better path. “It was a blessing in disguise. I got to be developed with the Gamecocks.”
A duel fueled by respect and competitive fire
The two haven’t really spoke much since their departures from Oklahoma and don’t have much of a relationship. When asked about their friendship, Rattler kept it respectful saying, “Cordial, I’ll say what’s up to him at the game, but I got respect for him. Really good player.”
Both quarterbacks have demonstrated their talent and potential, giving a sense of optimism within their organizations and fanbases. That promise will be on full display this Sunday, as the rivalry continue with the two facing off for the first time in their professional careers. Their long awaited showdown marks the beginning of what could become a compelling duel for years to come.