Bears’ Playoff Hopes Take Hit After Final-Minute End Zone Interception

The Chicago Bears’ comeback attempt fell painfully short on Sunday. A last-minute interception in the end zone sealed a 28-21 victory for the Green Bay Packers. The crucial play occurred with 27 seconds left in the game.

This loss dramatically reshapes the NFC playoff picture. According to ESPN, the Bears now fall out of the division lead and into a precarious wild-card position. The game’s final sequence has sparked intense debate about the team’s late-game strategy.

Fourth-Down Gamble Ends in Heartbreak for Chicago

The Bears trailed for most of the contest. They rallied to tie the game at 21-21 in the fourth quarter. The Packers quickly responded with a go-ahead touchdown.

That set up the dramatic final drive. Chicago moved the ball effectively to the Packers’ 14-yard line. They faced a critical fourth down with less than half a minute to play.

Quarterback Caleb Williams rolled right on the decisive play. His pass intended for tight end Cole Kmet was underthrown. Packers defender Keisean Nixon secured the game-ending interception.

Strategic Decisions Under Microscope After Loss

The play-calling before the interception drew immediate scrutiny. Green Bay’s Micah Parsons expressed surprise at Chicago’s approach. He noted the Bears ran the ball three straight times despite needing a touchdown.

Head coach Ben Johnson defended the final call. He stated the play had multiple options, including a run by Williams. The design was similar to a successful touchdown play used earlier this season.

Williams himself took responsibility for the errant throw. He said he needed to give his receiver a better chance to make a play. The rookie’s poise in the moment was noted, despite the unfortunate outcome.

This result hands the NFC North division lead directly to the Packers. The Bears must now regroup quickly, as a rematch between these rivals is just two weeks away. The late-game interception will likely define Chicago’s season narrative.

Thought you’d like to know

What was the score when the interception happened?

The Packers led 28-21. The Bears were attempting to score a game-tying touchdown on the play.

Who threw the game-ending interception?

Bears quarterback Caleb Williams threw the pass. It was intended for tight end Cole Kmet in the end zone.

How does this loss affect the Bears’ playoff standing?

They lost the NFC North division lead to Green Bay. Chicago dropped to the No. 7 seed in the NFC conference.

When do the Bears and Packers play next?

The two teams face each other again in two weeks. That game will have major implications for the playoff race.

What did Micah Parsons say about the Bears’ final drive?

The Packers defender said he was surprised by the play-calling. He expected more urgency given the need for a touchdown.