The Chicago Bears improved to 7-3 with a thrilling 19-17 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, thanks to a game-ending field goal set up by a crucial kickoff return.
In the final minute of the game, Devin Duvernay electrified the crowd with a 56-yard kickoff return, positioning Cairo Santos for a 48-yard field goal as time expired. This marked Santos” fourth successful field goal of the day, securing the win after the Vikings had taken a brief 17-16 lead with a touchdown just 50 seconds earlier.
Safety Kevin Byard, who intercepted J.J. McCarthy twice during the game, remarked, “This isn”t the same old Bears.” The Bears” defense has been a standout this season, contributing to their impressive NFL-leading turnover margin of plus-16, achieved through 22 takeaways against just six giveaways.
Throughout their seven victories, the Bears have showcased their ability to win tightly contested games, boasting a remarkable plus-20 turnover differential. They remain undefeated in games decided by two points or fewer, with a record of 3-0 in such close encounters.
Duvernay expressed pride in his team”s resilience, stating, “We always find a way to make it interesting. We just always find a way. Proud of each other.” Despite a shaky performance from McCarthy, who ended the game with five completions in a row culminating in a touchdown to Jordan Addison, the Bears managed to respond effectively after relinquishing a 13-point lead late in the game.
Santos redeemed himself after missing a 45-yard field goal earlier in the fourth quarter by nailing the game-winner, following a pivotal 7-yard run by D”Andre Swift, who finished the game with 90 rushing yards on 21 carries.
First-year head coach Ben Johnson praised the team”s collective effort, saying, “We”ve just kind of cycled around on who”s stepping up to the plate and getting us the win. I think that”s what good teams do.” The Bears” defense played a crucial role in keeping the Vikings at bay, holding them to seven successful third-down conversions out of 18 attempts. However, the Vikings” final drive began too deep in their territory, ultimately leading to their downfall.
Despite the Bears” success, Caleb Williams, the Bears” quarterback, had one of his less effective outings, completing 16 of 32 passes for 193 yards, while scrambling for 26 yards. Nonetheless, he maintained a turnover-free record, allowing the defense to handle critical situations.
For McCarthy, who played with a wrap on his injured throwing hand, the game was challenging. He recorded a passer rating of 47.7 and acknowledged the need to improve his mechanics, particularly under pressure. “I just need to do a better job to make sure the rhythm stays there throughout an entire 60 minutes,” he noted.
In terms of injuries, the Bears were without linebacker T.J. Edwards, while standout cornerback Jaylon Johnson missed his eighth consecutive game. The Vikings” cornerback Isaiah Rodgers was evaluated for a head injury after a hard hit but returned for the following drive. Additionally, outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard missed his first game in two seasons.
The Bears will host the Pittsburgh Steelers next Sunday, while the Vikings will head to Green Bay for their next matchup.
