The Chicago Bears ended their season on a high note by defeating the Green Bay Packers 24-22 with a last-second field goal. The victory snapped a 10-game losing streak for the Bears, while the Packers, now 11-6, secured the No. 7 seed in the NFC playoffs. The game was marked by key injuries to Packers' quarterback Jordan Love and wide receiver Christian Watson.
In a dramatic end to the regular NFL season, the Chicago Bears secured a thrilling 24-22 victory over the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field, courtesy of a last-second 51-yard field goal by kicker Cairo Santos. This win not only broke the Bears' 10-game losing streak but also marked their first victory over the Packers in 12 attempts. Meanwhile, the Packers, who finished the season with an 11-6 record, will enter the playoffs as the No. 7 seed, set to face the Philadelphia Eagles.
The game was a rollercoaster of emotions and strategic plays. The Bears initially took a 14-3 lead, capitalizing on a trick play during a punt return and a Green Bay fumble. Despite losing quarterback Jordan Love to an elbow injury, the Packers managed to close the gap with backup quarterback Malik Willis, who performed admirably under pressure. The Packers briefly took the lead with a 55-yard field goal by Brandon McManus, but the Bears responded swiftly. With just seconds left, a crucial pass to DJ Moore set up Santos for the game-winning field goal. "It was good to get that done," said Bears tight end Cole Kmet, highlighting the team's perseverance in closing out their season with a win [1] [2].
The game was marred by significant injuries for the Packers, with quarterback Jordan Love and wide receiver Christian Watson both leaving the field in the first half. Love, who suffered an elbow injury, was replaced by Malik Willis. Although Love was seen warming up on the sidelines, he did not re-enter the game, as head coach Matt LaFleur opted to rest him as a precaution. "Love could have returned, but was held out as a precaution," LaFleur explained [3]. Meanwhile, Watson's knee injury appeared more serious, with LaFleur expressing uncertainty about his status for the upcoming playoff game. The Packers will need to reassess their strategy as they prepare to face the Eagles, potentially without two of their key offensive players.
For the Bears, this victory was not only a morale booster but also a moment of redemption, particularly for kicker Cairo Santos. After missing a crucial kick in their previous encounter with the Packers, Santos was eager to make amends. "I've tried to stay in the moment every game after that, but I had this game circled in my heart," Santos stated after the game-winning kick [4]. The win also marked the end of interim head coach Thomas Brown's tenure, who inspired his team to embrace challenges and fight through adversity. As the Bears look to the future, they will aim to build on this victory and address the areas that led to their earlier struggles this season.
The Chicago Bears' victory over the Green Bay Packers was a fitting end to a challenging season, breaking a long-standing losing streak and providing a platform for future success. Despite the loss, the Packers remain focused on their playoff campaign, albeit with concerns over key player injuries. As both teams reflect on this game, the Bears will savor their hard-fought win, while the Packers prepare for a tough playoff matchup against the Eagles. The resilience and determination shown by both teams promise an exciting postseason ahead.
"It was good to get that done." - Cole Kmet
"Love could have returned, but was held out as a precaution." - Matt LaFleur
"I've tried to stay in the moment every game after that, but I had this game circled in my heart." - Cairo Santos