UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, the Chicago Bears defeated the Green Bay Packers 22-16 in overtime on December 23, 2023, thanks to a remarkable 46-yard touchdown pass from Caleb Williams to DJ Moore. The Bears overcame a late 10-point deficit and secured the victory despite a 99% win probability against them, marking a pivotal moment in their quest for the playoffs.
The Bears (11-4) extended their lead in the NFC North to 1.5 games over the Packers (9-5-1) with just two games remaining in the regular season. This victory serves as sweet revenge after a loss at Lambeau Field just two weeks prior and brings the Bears closer to their first postseason appearance since 2020.
With Jordan Love sidelined due to a concussion following a helmet-to-helmet hit in the second quarter, the Packers struggled to maintain their momentum. Cairo Santos kicked a 43-yard field goal to bring Chicago within striking distance at 16-9 with just 1:59 left in regulation. The Bears executed a crucial onside kick, recovered by Josh Blackwell, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
With only 24 seconds remaining, Williams connected with Jahdae Walker for a 6-yard touchdown, tying the game and sending it into overtime. Coach Ben Johnson opted for the extra point instead of a two-point conversion, a decision that paid off handsomely.
In overtime, the Packers faced a critical fourth-and-1 at the Chicago 36-yard line when backup quarterback Malik Willis fumbled the snap, giving the Bears the ball back. Just four plays later, Williams found Moore for the game-winning touchdown, igniting a wild celebration among Bears fans.
The Packers, already missing star linebacker Micah Parsons, faced further challenges with Love’s injury. He had previously completed 8 of 13 passes for 77 yards before leaving the game. Willis stepped in but managed only 9 completions on 11 attempts for 121 yards and one touchdown.
The Bears’ winning streak at home now extends to six games, a remarkable turnaround after a season-opening loss to Minnesota. Williams finished the game completing 19 of 34 passes for 250 yards and two touchdowns, while Moore had an impressive 97 yards receiving.
The Bears are now on the brink of clinching a playoff berth and will be watching closely as the Pittsburgh Steelers face the Detroit Lions on Sunday. If the Steelers secure a win, Chicago will officially book their postseason ticket.
Injuries plagued both teams throughout the match. The Packers lost linebacker Kristian Welch to an ankle injury early in the second quarter, while tight end John Fitzpatrick was helped off the field with an Achilles tendon injury in the fourth quarter.
Looking ahead, the Packers will host the Baltimore Ravens next Saturday, December 27, while the Bears travel to face the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, December 28.
Stay tuned for more updates as the playoff race intensifies!
