The first game of the highly anticipated NFC North rivalry ended in a thriller. The Chicago Bears (4-6) came into this match up against the Green Bay Packers (7-3) in hopes to rebirth their unfortunate season behind rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. The Chicago Bears were winless in their last ten matchups against the Packers going into this game. With a Bears loss on Sunday, the streak continues.
Late in the 4th quarter, the Bears found themselves down 20-19 after the Packers put together the go-ahead drive that was capped off with a 1-yard touchdown rush from QB Jordan Love.
With a chance to win the game, Williams and the Bears got the ball with 2:59 left on the clock. Williams pieced together impressive throws, most notably converting a 4th & 3 pass to rookie WR Rome Odunze who finished with 6 receptions for 65 yards. This set the Bears up for a manageable 46 yard field goal attempt for the potential game winner.
What appeared to be the streak-ending field goal and a turning point in the Bears season was squandered. The kick went up low and was blocked by defensive lineman Karl Brooks to give the Packers the win and extend their win streak against the Bears to 11. The tragic ending adds another bitter loss to the Bears season.
Though an unfortunate ending for the Bears, Williams continued to show potential as he finished with 231 yards with a 74.2 completion percentage, along with an 70 rushing yards. Williams highlighted impressive plays throughout the game in order to compete with a strong Packers team.
Despite a tough loss, the Bears get another opportunity for revenge at Lambeau Field in Week 18. As for the Packers, they look to continue to dominate the rivalry as well as have a playoff birth by the last week of the season.