When Chicago Bears eked out a 25‑24 victory over the Washington Commanders on Monday night, the win instantly became the week’s headline‑making story. The clash unfolded at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, as part of the Monday Night Football double‑header broadcast on ABC and streamed through the ESPN app. Why it mattered? A single‑point margin not only nudged Chicago’s record to .500 but also highlighted how injuries to key playmakers can tilt the balance in a league where every snap counts.
Game Recap: A Nail‑Biter from Start to Finish
The Bears seized an early lead with a 45‑yard strike from Caleb Williams, quarterback of the Chicago Bears. Williams, who turned 23 on June 9, connected with rookie wideout Rome Odunze for a 12‑yard first‑down that set the tone. The Commanders answered with a rushing burst from D'Andre Swift, who logged three carries for 18 yards before a crucial third‑down stop forced a punt.
Midway through the second quarter, Washington’s veteran tight end Zach Ertz fought through a lingering hamstring issue to snag a 7‑yard catch that kept the chain moving. Yet the Commanders’ offense sputtered when they threw three turnovers — two interceptions and a fumble — all of which the Bears capitalized on, turning potential points into a 10‑point swing.
In the final two minutes, the Commanders rallied to a 24‑24 tie after a 33‑yard interception return by Bears safety Jordan Brisker set up a short field goal. With less than a minute left, a clutch field goal by Chicago’s kicker sealed the win, leaving the crowd of 65,000 breathless.
Inactives and Their Ripple Effects
The injury list read like a who’s‑who of the league’s most productive receivers. The Commanders had to go without Terry McLaurin, the 29‑year‑old who finished the 2024 season with 316 receptions, and fellow 29‑year‑old Noah Brown, who contributed 43 catches last year. Their absences forced Washington to rely heavily on Deebo Samuel, who was targeted only once before his pass was snatched by Brisker.
On the Chicago side, defensive tackle Grady Jarrett (31) was listed as inactive. Bears analyst Harrison Graham lamented the loss, noting that the pass rush “has been mostly non‑existent” without Jarrett anchoring the interior line. The ripple was evident: Washington recorded a modest 2.3 sacks, well below the league average for a Monday Night matchup.
Key Performances That Stood Out
- Caleb Williams finished 18‑for‑29 for 214 yards and one touchdown, striking a balance between poise and youthful aggression.
- Rome Odunze racked up 6 catches for 84 yards, emerging as the Bears’ go‑to slot receiver in the second half.
- D'Andre Swift logged 12 carries for 57 yards, keeping the clock moving and preventing a deeper Washington comeback.
- Deebo Samuel managed only one reception before his ill‑fated attempt was intercepted, underscoring the impact of missing McLaurin and Brown.
- Jordan Brisker recorded a pivotal interception and a 33‑yard return that set up the game‑tying field goal.
Coaching Adjustments and Tactical Shifts
Chicago head coach Matt Eberflus leaned into a quicker passing tempo after the first quarter, using short, high‑percentage throws to neutralize Washington’s pass rush. Defensive coordinator Sean Desai, meanwhile, shifted more nickel packages to compensate for Jarrett’s absence, a move that kept the Commanders from exploiting the middle of the field but left the edges vulnerable.
Washington’s offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy attempted a go‑wide route concept late in the fourth quarter, hoping to stretch the field for a quick strike. The play backfired, resulting in a turnover that directly fed Chicago’s field‑goal unit.
Looking Ahead: What Week 7 Holds
Both teams now have a week to recover and recalibrate. The Bears travel to Green Bay to face the Packers on October 19, where a staunch defensive line will test Williams’ arm. The Commanders, meanwhile, host the Atlanta Falcons, hoping that wide receivers John Ross and a now‑healthy Noah Brown can revive a stagnant offense.
Injuries will remain the big question mark. If McLaurin returns, Washington’s aerial attack could spring back to life; if Jarrett is back on the line, Chicago’s defense may finally apply the pressure it lacked this week.
Historical Context: Bears‑Commanders Rivalry
Since the Commanders relocated to the Washington area in 2020, the rivalry has been defined by close contests. Over the last five meetings, three games were decided by seven points or fewer, underscoring the parity between the two franchises. This week’s one‑point margin ties for the smallest margin in their recent history, a reminder that the next showdown could swing either way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Bears’ victory impact their playoff chances?
The win brings Chicago to a 3‑3 record, keeping them within striking distance of the NFC North’s top spot. A .500 standing after Week 6 still leaves room for a late‑season surge, but they’ll need to maintain consistency, especially against divisional foes, to secure a wild‑card berth.
What does Terry McLaurin’s injury mean for Washington’s offense?
McLaurin’s absence removes the team’s most reliable deep threat, shrinking the field for the Commanders. Without his 316 career catches, Washington will likely lean on short routes and increased run plays, limiting big‑play potential until he’s cleared to return.
Why was Grady Jarrett’s inactivity such a blow for Chicago?
Jarrett is a three‑time Pro Bowler whose presence anchors both run‑stop and pass‑rush schemes. His loss forced the Bears to rely on lighter personnel, weakening interior pressure and allowing Washington more time in the pocket, which contributed to the three turnovers.
What were the decisive moments that swung the game?
Key turning points included Williams’ early touchdown pass, Brisker’s interception return that set up the tying field goal, and a final‑minute 53‑yard field goal by Chicago’s kicker, which turned a tie into a one‑point lead.
How might Week 7 matchups change each team’s strategy?
If Jarrett returns, Chicago can re‑introduce a stronger interior rush against Green Bay’s offensive line. Conversely, Washington will likely integrate Brown back into the receiver set, hoping to stretch the field against Atlanta’s secondary and revive their aerial attack.
