Caleb Williams led the Bears to a 30-24 win over the Patriots in a primetime rematch, throwing for 308 yards and two scores as Chicago overcame Drake Maye’s 321-yard, two-TD performance. Williams leaned on Luther Burden and Colston Loveland while guiding a comeback bid after halftime as Chicago built a 20-7 lead and withstood New England’s rally led by Stevenson and Maye. A pivotal late defensive stand and a successful onside kick sealed the victory, marking Williams’ second consecutive 300+ yard game and continuing the Bears’ momentum. The win came in Chicago’s first home game since Mike Ditka’s death, reinforcing the team’s smashmouth, innovative identity with an eye toward the next matchup.
Dive Deeper:
Williams completed 22 of 33 passes for 308 yards and two touchdowns, elevating him as Chicago’s top quarterback in back-to-back 300+ yard games, a milestone not reached since 2018.
Maye finished 24 of 31 for 321 yards and two TDs, added a 7-yard rushing score, but was intercepted in the end zone in the second quarter, a swing play that the Bears capitalized on.
Burden had four receptions for 130 yards, including a 24-yard TD that capped a first-half sequence, while Loveland contributed a 12-yard score and helped clear paths for Burden on key plays.
Cairo Santos connected on a 58-yard field goal late in the game, tying the franchise long and matching a team record after a missed 53-yarder earlier in the quarter, as Chicago extended its lead through Seattle-tide kick opportunities.
New England briefly surged with Stevenson’s 48-yard TD to start the third period, but Chicago responded with a turnover-free drive and maintained the lead into the final minutes, aided by an onside kick recovery.
Key injuries affected both sides: Bears’ Malik Muhammad left with a toe issue and Cole Kmet hurt his knee, while Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez played after illness and Kevin Byard returned after a brief exit.
The game also carried emotional weight as Chicago honored Hall of Fame coach and tight end Mike Ditka before kickoff, with fans in tribute and jerseys scattered throughout Soldier Field.