Bears Edge Vikings on Last-Second Field Goal to Extend Win Streak

The Chicago Bears once again found themselves navigating late-game turbulence, but this time they finished the job. After letting a 16–3 lead slip away, Chicago responded with a composed final drive that ended in a game-winning kick as time expired. The victory marked the Bears’ third straight win and continued a trend of fourth-quarter resilience.

Sunday’s finish echoed their Week 1 collapse against JJ McCarthy and the Vikings, a game Chicago lost after a late defensive breakdown. This time, history nearly repeated itself when Jordan Addison’s touchdown put Minnesota ahead by one with just over a minute to play. The Bears, however, refused to let another opportunity slip through their fingers.

A pivotal special teams return changed everything. Devin Duvernay’s burst past midfield instantly placed Chicago on the edge of scoring range, turning a daunting situation into a manageable one. From there, the offense needed only careful clock management and a few positive rushing plays to set up Santos’ decisive kick.

The win pushed Chicago to 7–3 and kept momentum firmly on their side as they head into a critical portion of their schedule. While the Bears have shown they can rally from nearly any deficit, their late-game escape acts may not be sustainable forever — a reality the team knows well as the season intensifies.

1. Special Teams Spark Key Final Moment

Duvernay’s return became the defining play of the afternoon, shifting the tone just seconds after Minnesota’s go-ahead touchdown. His speed and vision carved through coverage lanes, giving Chicago a short field and resetting the pressure of the moment. The play ensured the Bears would not need a long drive or risky passing attempts to regain the lead. Once set up near field-goal range, Chicago committed to a conservative yet purposeful approach. Coach Matt Eberflus and offensive coordinator Shane Waldron elected to protect the ball rather than force throws into tight coverage. Quarterback Caleb Williams didn’t attempt a pass on the entire possession. Instead, the Bears leaned on De’Andre Swift, who churned out three steady runs that positioned Santos perfectly. The kicker, who has been reliable all season, delivered once again with the game on the line. For a team that has struggled to finish games cleanly, the sequence served as a reminder of the importance of complementary football — and how special teams can shift outcomes as dramatically as any offensive or defensive unit.

2. Chicago’s Comeback Trend Continues

This victory joined a growing list of narrow escapes for Chicago. Their resurgence began with a chaotic win over the Cincinnati Bengals, a game salvaged when Colston Loveland bailed out the defense after allowing two quick touchdowns. One week later, an injury to Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart stalled New York’s offense and opened the door for another Bears rally. In each of these games, Chicago has shown adaptability under pressure. Whether sparked by a defensive stand, a special teams jolt, or a breakout offensive performance, the Bears have proven capable of executing late when necessary. The Vikings game fell neatly into that pattern. Still, the team recognizes the fine line between resilience and over-reliance on late drama. Consistently needing fourth-quarter heroics can be a dangerous formula, especially as playoff races tighten and opponents strengthen. Chicago’s staff has emphasized the need for more complete performances. Despite those concerns, stacking wins matters. The Bears now sit at 7–3 with a chance to rise atop the NFC North should results elsewhere fall in their favor — a position few predicted entering the season.

3. What Comes Next for Both Teams

The Bears return home next week to face the Pittsburgh Steelers, who are also coming off a win and remain in the AFC playoff picture. With division stakes rising and the season entering its stretch run, the matchup carries weight for Chicago’s momentum and positioning. For the Bears, maintaining their strong record will require more than late-game escapes. Their offense has shown flashes but still seeks consistency, while the defense has alternated between lockdown stretches and sudden lapses. The Minnesota game showcased both extremes once again. The Vikings, meanwhile, fall to 4–6 and face mounting pressure to remain relevant in the NFC wildcard race. Their upcoming road trip to Green Bay could be pivotal, especially if rookie quarterback JJ McCarthy can build on his confident fourth quarter in Chicago. Minnesota’s inconsistency remains its biggest obstacle. Flashes of promise — like Addison’s go-ahead touchdown — often coexist with breakdowns in other phases. With time running short, the team must find a steadier rhythm to avoid slipping further in the standings.