Bears Steal the North: Santos Sends Skol Nation Home Silent
November 17, 2025
In what promised to be another hard-fought NFC North battle, the Bears traveled to Minnesota hoping to sharpen some of the rough edges in their season. The Vikings, meanwhile, aimed to regain momentum and assert their dominant presence in the division. With both squads carrying urgency into the matchup, the stage was set for a dramatic showdown.
The Bears struck early rhythm, methodically constructing drives and capitalizing on opportunities. Quarterback Caleb Williams completed 16 of 32 passes for 193 yards, while the ground game contributed 140 yards on 39 carries, led by D’Andre Swift, who logged 90 yards on 21 attempts.
Chicago’s defense delivered two takeaways, including an interception by Kevin Byard III, who picked off Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy and returned it 24 yards. By the end of the third quarter, the Bears held a 16-3 lead, with field goals and a short touchdown run by rookie Kyle Monangai sealing the advantage.
But the Vikings were not done. Minnesota clawed back in the fourth quarter with a 16-yard touchdown run by Jordan Mason and a later connection from McCarthy to Jordan Addison for a 15-yard TD, giving them a 17-16 lead with mere seconds remaining. Chicago responded with one final push: after a 56-yard kickoff return by Devin Duvernay to Minnesota’s 40, the Bears ran the ball three times to reach the 30-yard line. With four seconds on the clock, kicker Cairo Santos drilled a 48-yard field goal as time expired, handing Chicago a dramatic 19-17 road victory.
Key Takeaways:
- The Bears’ rushing attack and second-level physicality were vital; controlling the line of scrimmage and sustaining long drives gave them the edge early.
- Chicago’s defense was opportunistic with takeaways, especially in high-leverage moments.
- The Vikings’ comeback showed heart and urgency, but their late surge was just short.
- Special teams swings, especially kickoff returns and the final field-goal setup, proved decisive.
- Game management and execution with the clock in the final minute tilted this one in Chicago’s favor.
- With the win, the Bears moved to 7-3, riding what is now a seven-victory in an eight-game stretch. Their ability to execute under pressure marks a meaningful turnaround for a franchise that has struggled in recent years. For Minnesota, the loss is a reminder that early leads don’t guarantee outcomes and that momentum can shift quickly in the division.
- This game, tight in score but rich in narrative, underscores the fine margins in the NFL. The Bears found a late-game hero in Santos, while the Vikings showed they can rally but must finish stronger. Both teams leave the field with lessons: Chicago with confidence and hunger for more, Minnesota with both promise and a resolve to close better next time.
Chris, Guest Author
The Goal Line Grind 