The Chicago Bears squeaked past the Washington Commanders 25‑24 on Monday Night Football, thanks to kicker Jake Moody’s fourth field goal in the dead of a rain‑soaked evening at FedExField. The game‑winning kick rang out with just seconds left, turning a frantic comeback into a one‑point win that left fans buzzing well past the 10:36 PM UTC broadcast wrap‑up.
Game Overview and Key Moments
When the lights came up at Monday Night FootballFedExField, Landover, Maryland, the Bears held a 13‑point lead early in the first half. Caleb Williams, quarterback for the Bears, threw for 211 yards, three touchdowns and an interception, snapping a few nerves with a 19‑of‑26 accuracy.
Washington answered back with a 13‑7 swing, highlighted by a "unreal" 67‑yard touchdown catch by Chris Moore off a perfect pass from Jayden Daniels. The Commanders’ drive tucked the game at 14‑13 heading into the third quarter.
But the real twist came late in the fourth. With Washington up 24‑22, Daniels fumbled under pressure – a turnover that the Bears turned into a field‑goal opportunity. Jake Moody lined up his fourth attempt of the night. The rain, slick and relentless, turned the kicker’s cleats into a slip‑n‑slide, yet his foot connected cleanly. The ball sailed between the uprights as the clock hit zero, sealing the win.
Statistical Breakdown
Behind the drama, the numbers tell a deeper story. Chicago amassed 381 total yards compared with Washington’s 329, while the Commanders held a modest time‑of‑possession edge—31:34 versus 28:26. The Bears ran the ball effectively: J. Croskey‑Merritt chipped in 108 rushing yards on 14 carries, breaking several tackles for extra first downs.
Washington’s ground game lagged behind, with J. Robinson managing only 61 yards on 17 attempts. Turnovers made the difference— the Commanders coughed up three, while the Bears protected the ball perfectly.
Penalties also tilted the field. Chicago was flagged nine times for 84 yards, a slight bump in the road that could have cost them the game had Moody missed. Washington’s five penalties for 40 yards were more disciplined, but not enough to offset the turnover margin.
- Final Score: Bears 25, Commanders 24
- Moody: 4/4 FG (23, 31, 36, 45 yards)
- Williams: 19/26, 211 yards, 3 TD, 1 INT
- Daniels: 17/29, 252 yards, 1 TD
- Turnover margin: Bears 0, Commanders 3
Coaches' and Players' Reactions
Head coach Matt Eberflus praised his defense in the post‑game press conference. "We stuck to the plan, we got back in the pocket, and we trusted Jake to make those kicks. That’s the kind of grit we need all season," he said, a grin breaking through the rain‑drenched suit.
On the other sideline, Commanders’ head coach Ron Rivera lamented the missed opportunity. "We fought hard, but the ball came loose at the worst moment. Credit to Chicago for capitalizing," he admitted, while noting the need to tighten ball security.
Moody, still wiping rain from his forehead, reflected on the pressure. "Four kicks in a row, knowing the game’s on the line— you just lock in and let the routine take over," he said, laughing as a camera caught the mud on his cleats.
Williams, the rookie sensation, emphasized the team effort. "It wasn’t just about the passes. Our defense gave us chances, and Jake gave us the points. It’s all hand‑in‑hand," he noted, pointing to his offensive line.
Impact on the Season and Playoff Picture
With the win, the Bears moved to 3‑2 overall and 2‑1 on the road, tightening the NFC North race. Their only loss remains the season‑opening defeat at home to the Detroit Lions, but the comeback win in Maryland signals they can thrive in hostile environments.
Washington slipped to 3‑3, now sitting in a precarious spot in the NFC East. A loss at home after previously holding the edge in the series could force them into a must‑win scenario next week against the New York Giants.
Analyst John Clayton of CBS Sports noted, "Moody’s reliability under pressure is a rarity. If the Bears can keep that special‑teams edge, they’ll be a top‑four seed contender even if the offense hiccups."
Historical Context: Bears vs. Commanders Rivalry
This win carries a neat narrative twist. Last season, Washington pulled off a dramatic Hail Mary in the fourth quarter to beat Chicago, a play that still haunts Bears fans. This Monday night, the tables turned: a fumble by Daniels—mirroring the previous year’s turnover—handed the Bears a walk‑off field goal.
Both franchises have met 68 times in regular‑season play, with the Bears holding a slight edge historically. The latest result pushes the series record to 35‑33 in Chicago’s favor, a narrow margin that underscores the rivalry’s competitiveness.
Looking ahead, if the Bears sustain this resilience, they could force a showdown with division rival Green Bay Packers later in the season—a game many predict could decide the NFC North crown.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this win affect the Chicago Bears' playoff chances?
The victory lifts Chicago to 3‑2, improving their standing in the NFC North. A 5‑0 record on the road would likely secure a top‑four seed, so every road win, especially in a close game, bolsters their postseason outlook considerably.
What were the key factors that led to Washington's loss?
Three turnovers, including Daniels’ fourth‑quarter fumble, proved decisive. Coupled with a missed opportunity to convert a late drive into a touchdown, those mistakes handed Chicago the chance to take the lead with Moody’s final field goal.
Who stood out on defense for the Bears?
Linebacker Bobby Wagner led the team with 13 total tackles. Defensive back J. Brisker also made a pivotal interception that set up a crucial field‑goal drive.
What does the rainy weather tell us about special teams performance?
Moody’s flawless four‑kick night, despite a wet ball and slippery footing, underscores the Bears’ special‑teams preparation. In adverse conditions, a reliable kicker becomes a tactical weapon, and Chicago now has that edge.
When is the next matchup between the Bears and Commanders?
The two teams meet again in Week 12 at Soldier Field on November 30, 2025. With the standings tightening, both sides will treat it as a must‑win.
