The Chicago Bears pulled off a gritty 25-24 victory over the Washington Commanders by overcoming turnovers, missed opportunities, and questionable officiating to secure their third straight win.
Despite several offensive missteps and poor ball control, the team found a way to close out the game under first-year head coach Ben Johnson. The deciding moment came when Chicago’s defense recovered a late fumble, giving quarterback Caleb Williams one last chance to lead a game-winning drive.
That set up kicker Jake Moody, who had recently joined the team, for a walk-off field goal in windy, rainy conditions. After the game, Williams told ESPN’s Laura Rutledge that the Bears’ mentality is what’s driving their turnaround.
“That’s who we are, we fight. That’s what coach said. We went 0-2 the first two games. We tied it back up, went 2-2, and now we’re 3-2, because of our fight, because of how we face adversity and how we come through and come together,” he said.
Bears’ fight, resilience define new era under Ben Johnson
The win highlighted what Williams described as the Bears’ new identity—resilient, confident, and capable of winning games they likely would have lost in recent years. Chicago’s defense set the tone early, forcing two fumbles and a key interception by Jaquan Brisker.
The final recovery sealed the Commanders’ fate, despite what many viewed as a series of favorable calls for Washington.
Williams finished the night with 252 passing yards, including a 55-yard touchdown strike to D’Andre Swift, and added a rushing score in the first quarter. He was sacked three times and missed on several throws, but his poise on the final drive defined the performance.
Swift, who had struggled this season, had his breakout game with 108 rushing yards and 67 receiving yards, including that long touchdown that shifted momentum back to Chicago.
The Bears’ offensive rhythm under Johnson continues to evolve, starting strong on opening drives and finding balance between the run and pass. Williams praised Moody for his composure, saying,
“I didn’t know who he was when he first joined the team, then I saw him kick like a 65-yarder in practice.” Williams added, “For what he was able to do coming here. I know he’s had some tough times recently, but been able to come in here—rainy, windy, all of this—and come through for us. Proud of him. Happy for him, and happy for us.”
Chicago now sits at 3-2, a reflection of its ability to adapt and finish games. As they prepare to face the New Orleans Saints next week, Williams’ message is clear: this Bears team isn’t just surviving adversity, they’re built to thrive in it.