Caleb Williams gained confidence, and Cairo Santos found redemption.
The Chicago Bears capped off a disappointing season on a positive note, while the Green Bay Packers limped into the playoffs facing numerous uncertainties.
Williams led the Bears to a 24-22 win over the Packers, driving them into position for Santos’ game-winning 51-yard field goal as time expired. The Packers were also hit by injuries to quarterback Jordan Love and wide receiver Christian Watson during the game.
With the victory, the Bears (5-12) broke an 11-game losing streak against the Packers, their first win over them since 2018. This win also ended a 10-game overall slump, a stretch that included the firing of head coach Matt Eberflus the day after Thanksgiving, tying a franchise record for consecutive losses in a single season.
“It was great to have that moment,” said Williams, the No. 1 pick in the 2024 draft. “Getting the first win of 2025, the first win at Lambeau since 2015, and the first win over Green Bay in 12 games—it’s just the start of many good things, and I’m really excited about the offseason.”
Santos redeemed himself after missing a 46-yard field goal in a 20-19 loss to Green Bay on November 17, which had been blocked by Karl Brooks on the last play of the game. “I couldn’t have scripted a better ending,” said Santos.
Meanwhile, Green Bay (11-6) will enter the NFC playoffs as the No. 7 seed, facing Philadelphia in the wild-card round.
The Packers are now waiting on updates regarding Watson and Love’s injuries. Watson, who suffered a knee injury in the second quarter, was carted off the field, and Love, who was also injured during that same series, later left the game with a hand issue. Love, who lost feeling in his throwing hand, believes he will be fine for the playoffs. Head coach Matt LaFleur stated that Love could have returned if needed.
“This isn’t the way we wanted to finish with a loss to the Vikings and then another here,” said Love. “But it’s our reality, and we’ve got to find ways to improve and focus on Philly.”
LaFleur, however, wasn’t as hopeful about Watson’s condition, as Watson appeared frustrated while being carted off the field.
Love’s injury occurred early in the second quarter after taking a hit while throwing to Josh Jacobs. Earlier in the series, Watson had injured his knee while running a route. Malik Willis stepped in for Love and completed 10 of 13 passes for 136 yards, helping Green Bay rally from a 14-3 deficit.
Williams completed 21 of 29 passes for 148 yards and threw a touchdown pass to Moore, who caught nine passes for 86 yards.
