Bears Triumph Over Vikings with Last-Minute Field Goal

In a thrilling finish at U.S. Bank Stadium, the Chicago Bears improved their record to 7-3 after defeating the Minnesota Vikings 19-17 on November 12, 2023. A crucial 56-yard kickoff return by Devin Duvernay set up kicker Cairo Santos for a 48-yard field goal as time expired, clinching the win for the Bears.

The game took a dramatic turn in the final minute when the Vikings scored a go-ahead touchdown, leaving Chicago with just seconds to respond. Quarterback J.J. McCarthy connected with rookie receiver Jordan Addison for a 15-yard touchdown that put Minnesota ahead. With the clock winding down, Duvernay’s electrifying return gave the Bears a fighting chance.

Santos, who had previously missed a 45-yard attempt earlier in the game, redeemed himself by successfully converting the game-winner. A critical 7-yard rush by D’Andre Swift helped push the ball into a more favorable range for the kick.

Despite suffering from an injury to his throwing hand, McCarthy completed 16 of 32 passes for 150 yards and recorded a 47.7 passer rating. His performance included two interceptions, which put the Bears in advantageous positions throughout the game. In contrast, his counterpart, Caleb Williams, who was drafted by the Bears ahead of McCarthy, had a less effective outing, completing 16 of 32 passes for 193 yards, while also maintaining a turnover-free performance.

McCarthy’s rocky start included a series of off-target passes, particularly in the second quarter. His struggles allowed the Bears’ defense to capitalize, with veteran safety Kevin Byard intercepting a pressured throw, giving Chicago excellent field position at the Minnesota 25-yard line. This set up Santos’s first field goal of the game.

The Bears initially took control of the match with a strong performance in the first half, culminating in a third rushing touchdown from rookie Kyle Monangai, who has now scored three times in five games. However, the Vikings’ defense played a significant role in keeping the game competitive, limiting Chicago to seven of 18 on third-down conversions.

Injuries played a role in the game as well, with Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards inactive due to hand and hamstring issues. Cornerback Jaylon Johnson missed his eighth consecutive game while recovering from a groin injury. The Vikings faced their own challenges, as cornerback Isaiah Rodgers returned after a head injury, and outside linebacker Jonathan Greenard missed his first game in two seasons due to a shoulder issue.

Looking ahead, the Bears will host the Pittsburgh Steelers next Sunday, while the Vikings will travel to Green Bay for their next matchup. This victory places the Bears firmly in the playoff conversation as they continue their season.