At a Glance
- Chicago Bears erase 21-3 halftime deficit to stun Green Bay Packers 31-27
- Caleb Williams throws for 361 yards and 2 TDs in playoff debut
- Brandon McManus misses 2 FGs and PAT, leaving 7 points on field
- Why it matters: Bears advance to divisional round after 15-year playoff win drought
The Chicago Bears pulled off a dramatic 31-27 comeback victory over the Green Bay Packers in wild card weekend, overcoming an 18-point halftime deficit with a dominant fourth quarter.
The Turnaround
Green Bay controlled the first half, building a 21-3 lead behind three touchdown passes from Jordan Love. The Packers’ defense dominated early, consistently beating Chicago to big plays.
Everything changed after halftime. The Bears outscored Green Bay 25-6 in the fourth quarter, with Caleb Williams engineering the game-winning drive capped by a touchdown pass to D.J. Moore.
Heroic Efforts
Caleb Williams overcame a slow start to finish 24-of-48 for 361 yards with 2 touchdowns and 2 interceptions. His fourth-quarter performance included multiple clutch throws when Chicago needed them most.
Despite the loss, Jordan Love delivered an outstanding performance:
- 24-of-46 passing for 323 yards
- 4 touchdowns with 0 interceptions
- Three first-half TDs kept Green Bay in control
Special Teams Disaster
Brandon McManus struggled mightily for Green Bay, missing:
- Two field goal attempts
- The final extra point attempt
These misses proved costly – had McManus made just the extra point, the Packers could have attempted a game-tying field goal on their final drive instead of needing a touchdown.
What Comes Next
The Bears will host either the Philadelphia Eagles or Los Angeles Rams in the divisional round depending on Sunday’s results. Both potential opponents present tougher challenges than the Packers.
Key Takeaways
- Chicago ends 15-year playoff win drought with dramatic comeback
- Caleb Williams validates No. 1 pick status with clutch playoff performance
- Green Bay’s season ends with special teams collapse and second-half offensive struggles
- Jordan Love proves he’s the Packers’ franchise quarterback despite loss
The Bears’ victory sets up an intriguing divisional round matchup while Green Bay faces an offseason of questions, particularly about their kicking situation and second-half game planning.
