In a riveting primetime showdown at Soldier Field, the Chicago Bears emerged triumphant with a 16-13 win against the Carolina Panthers. The Bears’ defense showcased dominance, limiting the Panthers to a mere 213 total yards, 12 first downs, and zero touchdowns, while securing three crucial sacks.
The turning point of the game arrived in the third quarter when D’Onta Foreman powered through with a 4-yard touchdown run, propelling the Bears to a 16-10 lead. This scoring drive was initiated by a stout defensive performance that forced a three-and-out, granting the Bears advantageous field position at the Panthers’ 38-yard line.
Although Eddy Piñeiro’s 39-yard field goal narrowed the score to 16-13 early in the fourth quarter, his ambitious 59-yard attempt in the final minutes fell short, securing the Bears’ victory. With this win, the Bears improved their season record to 3-7, showcasing a notable recovery from their challenging 0-4 start.
Coach Matt Eberflus commended his team’s cohesive performance, emphasizing the defense’s ability to create short-field opportunities for the offense. Despite the defensive struggle on both sides, the Bears capitalized on these opportunities, ultimately positioning themselves for the win.
Following a disappointing loss to the Saints, the Bears’ offense rebounded with a clean game, displaying resilience and precision. Quarterback Tyson Bagent, stepping in for the injured Justin Fields for the fourth consecutive start, completed 20 of 33 passes for 162 yards, boasting a 73.0 passer rating. Eberflus praised Bagent’s ability to avoid sacks and make sound decisions, highlighting his crucial role in giving the team a chance to win.
Former Panthers, D’Onta Foreman and DJ Moore, played pivotal roles in fueling the Bears’ offense. Foreman rushed for 80 yards on 21 carries, while Moore caught five passes for a game-high 58 yards. The Bears’ defensive line, led by Justin Jones, Yannick Ngakoue, and Rasheem Green, consistently pressured Panthers’ quarterback Bryce Young, securing sacks and disrupting the opposing offense.
The Panthers initially took the lead with Ihmir Smith-Marsette’s 79-yard punt return touchdown in the first quarter. However, the Bears fought back, narrowing the deficit with Cairo Santos’ field goals and eventually taking control in the third quarter.
Despite a late scoring attempt by the Panthers, the Bears sealed the victory with a strategic pass from Bagent to Darnell Mooney on third-and-7 from the Carolina 48, successfully running out the clock.
Eberflus addressed the decision to pass rather than run in the crucial play, highlighting the team’s confidence in their passing game and their trust in Bagent’s abilities under pressure. The Bears’ victory showcased their resilience, marking a significant step forward in their season.