Bears Overcome 18-Point Deficit to Defeat Packers in Playoffs

The Chicago Bears achieved a remarkable comeback, overcoming an 18-point deficit to secure a 31-27 victory over the Green Bay Packers in the NFL playoffs’ wild-card round on January 7, 2025. This win marked the Bears’ first home postseason game in eight years and their seventh comeback victory of the season. Running back Kyle Monangai downplayed the significance, stating, “Same old,” but the game was anything but routine for the team.

Trailing 21-3 at halftime, the Bears made franchise history by achieving the fourth-largest comeback in their history and the largest in postseason play. They became only the fourth team to win a playoff game after entering the fourth quarter down by more than 15 points. The Bears have developed a reputation as a second-half team, and Sunday’s game exemplified that characteristic.

Head coach Ben Johnson reflected on the team’s mentality during the halftime break, recalling a training camp session where they reviewed the New England Patriots’ famous 28-3 Super Bowl comeback against the Atlanta Falcons. Johnson encouraged his players to view their situation as an opportunity, saying, “This is a great opportunity to turn this around into a game we’ll never forget. And that’s what they did.”

The Bears’ second-half performance showcased their offensive prowess. Their yards per play increased from 5.3 in the first half to 6.1 in the second half, while their points per drive improved from 2.05 to 2.88. Notably, in three matchups against the Packers this season, the Bears averaged just 0.5 points per drive in the first half compared to 3.85 in the second.

Quarterback Caleb Williams played a crucial role in the comeback, demonstrating his ability under pressure. Facing a critical fourth-and-8, he executed a spectacular throw that resulted in a first down, contributing to his 361 passing yards, the most by a Bears quarterback in a playoff game.

Rookie tight end Colston Loveland also excelled, accumulating 137 receiving yards, just shy of the record for a rookie tight end in postseason history. Loveland’s performance was particularly impressive in the second half, where he gained 115 of his total yards, highlighting his growing role in the Bears’ offense. Johnson praised Loveland’s dedication, stating, “He’s been a model of consistency, which for a rookie, speaks volumes.”

The Bears’ defense made essential adjustments as well, turning around a challenging first half where they allowed three touchdowns and a field goal. The defense started the second half strong, limiting the Packers to three-and-out drives and collecting only one first down in their first four possessions.

Safety Kevin Byard III, a veteran presence on the team, noted the importance of maintaining composure, saying, “There was no panic. We just knew it was gonna take one play at a time.” The Bears’ defensive strategy included aggressive blitzing and improved coverage, which ultimately disrupted the Packers’ rhythm in the second half.

The victory over the Packers not only solidified the Bears’ place in the playoffs but also marked a significant moment in their season. This win, characterized by resilience and determination, sends a strong message as they advance further in the postseason. With eight teams remaining in the NFL playoffs, the Bears have proven they are a force to be reckoned with, shaking off the label of “same old” and establishing their identity as a formidable playoff contender.