UPDATE: In a thrilling overtime showdown, the Chicago Bears stunned the Green Bay Packers with a 22-16 victory on December 23, 2023, at Soldier Field. Caleb Williams threw a spectacular 46-yard touchdown pass to DJ Moore, overcoming a late 10-point deficit in a game that saw the Packers’ quarterback Jordan Love leave with a concussion.
This dramatic win allows the Bears (11-4) to extend their lead in the NFC North to 1.5 games over the Packers (9-5-1) with just two games left in the season. The Bears, who had previously lost to the Packers at Lambeau Field two weeks ago, are now a step closer to their first postseason appearance since 2020.
With only 1:59 left in regulation, Cairo Santos kicked a 43-yard field goal to narrow the score to 16-9. The Bears executed a bold onside kick, which was recovered by Josh Blackwell. Just 24 seconds remaining, Williams deftly connected with Jahdae Walker for a 6-yard touchdown pass despite relentless pressure, opting for the extra point instead of a risky two-point conversion.
In overtime, the Packers faced a crucial fourth-and-1 situation, but backup quarterback Malik Willis fumbled the snap, allowing the Bears to regain possession. Just four plays later, Williams found Moore in the end zone, securing a jaw-dropping victory and igniting a wild celebration among the home crowd.
This match marked another low point for the Packers, who not only lost Love to a helmet-to-helmet hit in the second quarter but were also without star linebacker Micah Parsons, sidelined for the season. Love, prior to his injury, had completed 8 of 13 passes for 77 yards and had proven successful against the Bears in previous encounters.
Williams, the Heisman Trophy winner, finished the game with 19 completions on 34 attempts, totaling 250 yards and two touchdowns. Moore stood out with 97 yards receiving, while the Bears secured their sixth consecutive home win after an opening loss to Minnesota.
The Bears will look to solidify their playoff hopes next week when they travel to face the San Francisco 49ers on December 28. Meanwhile, the Packers are set to host the Baltimore Ravens on December 27.
As the NFL season heats up, fans are left buzzing over this unexpected turn of events in the oldest rivalry in the league. The Bears, now with a 7-30 record against the Packers since 2008 when including playoffs, have shown resilience and determination that could lead them deep into the postseason.
Stay tuned for further updates as the playoff picture continues to unfold.
