In a thrilling wild-card playoff matchup on Saturday night, Caleb Williams made a remarkable debut, leading the Chicago Bears to a stunning comeback victory against their long-time rivals, the Green Bay Packers. With just 1:43 left on the clock, Williams connected with DJ Moore on a pivotal 25-yard touchdown pass, clinching a 31-27 win for the Bears. This victory marks a significant milestone for the team, as it is their first playoff win in 15 years.
The Chicago Bears, who finished the season at 12-6 and secured the NFC North championship under the leadership of coach Ben Johnson, demonstrated resilience and determination, rallying from an 18-point deficit. Trailing 21-3 at halftime and 21-6 entering the fourth quarter, the Bears outscored the Packers 25-6 in the final quarter, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure.
As the game progressed, Williams found a wide-open Moore along the left sideline, allowing the Bears to take a 31-27 lead. Following this, Packers' quarterback Jordan Love attempted to respond, driving Green Bay into Chicago territory. However, on a crucial third down play at the 28-yard line, Bears safety Jaquan Brisker thwarted the Packers' efforts by breaking up a pass in the end zone as time expired, igniting a jubilant celebration among Bears fans.
Early in the fourth quarter, D’Andre Swift scored on a 5-yard run, narrowing the Bears’ deficit to 21-16. The Packers answered back with rookie Matthew Golden showcasing his skills, breaking three tackles and scoring a 23-yard touchdown, extending their lead to 27-16. Unfortunately for Green Bay, kicker Brandon McManus missed the extra point attempt.
Chicago retaliated with a 76-yard drive that culminated in an 8-yard touchdown pass from Williams to Olamide Zaccheaus. The Bears also executed a successful 2-point conversion with a pass to rookie Colston Loveland, bringing the score to 27-24 with 4:18 remaining.
In a nail-biting conclusion, the Packers advanced to the Chicago 21-yard line but were unable to capitalize, as McManus missed a 44-yard field goal attempt wide right. The Bears seized the opportunity, orchestrating the game-winning touchdown drive that secured their victory over the Packers.
This victory is particularly significant for the Bears, marking their first playoff win since the 2010 season when they triumphed over the Seattle Seahawks. The Bears have struggled in the postseason in recent years, losing three consecutive playoff games, including a heart-wrenching defeat to the Packers in the NFC Championship Game that same season. However, with this victory, the Bears have now defeated the Packers three times in their last five encounters, signaling a potential shift in the NFL's longest-running rivalry.
Caleb Williams, who was the first overall pick in last year's draft, showcased his potential by throwing for 361 yards and two late touchdowns despite a rocky start. He completed 24 of 48 passes, with two interceptions. Loveland emerged as a key target, catching eight passes for 137 yards.
The game was not without its injuries. For the Packers, right tackle Zach Tom was inactive due to a knee issue, and backup offensive lineman Jacob Monk left the game in the first half with a biceps injury. The Bears faced their own challenges, with linebacker T.J. Edwards carted off the field in the second quarter due to a left ankle injury. Cornerback Kyler Gordon made his return after being sidelined since Week 13.
Looking ahead, the Packers will begin their offseason, while the Bears are set to host a divisional-round game next weekend, either against the Los Angeles Rams or the Philadelphia Eagles, who are set to play San Francisco on Sunday. The Bears’ resurgence this season has reinvigorated their fanbase, and they hope to build on this momentum as they advance in the playoffs.