Chicago Bears Clinch Last-Minute Victory with Moody’s Field Goal

The Chicago Bears triumphed over the Washington Commanders with a thrilling last-minute drive, culminating in a game-winning field goal by rookie kicker Jake Moody on October 14, 2025. The Bears secured a 25-24 victory at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, showcasing resilience and determination as they overturned a late-game deficit.

Moody, recently signed to the Bears’ practice squad after being waived by the San Francisco 49ers, experienced a surreal moment when his teammates lifted him onto their shoulders in celebration. “It feels amazing, obviously,” Moody remarked. “Hitting a game-winner is always a good time. Doing it for a new team, in my first game, it’s huge.”

The Bears initially led for much of the game, seeking revenge for a previous season’s last-second defeat. However, with just four minutes remaining, the Commanders took a 24-22 lead, shifting the momentum in their favor.

A fateful play for the Commanders occurred on third-and-1 from the Chicago 40-yard line. Quarterback Jayden Daniels mishandled a read option play, resulting in a fumble that was recovered by Bears cornerback Nahshon Wright. “It’s a great feeling to change the field,” Wright said after the game.

With 3:07 left on the clock, the Bears took over possession at their own 44-yard line. The focus was clear for quarterback Caleb Williams: secure the win without giving the ball back to the Commanders. Head coach Ben Johnson emphasized a strong ground game, aiming to run down the clock effectively.

Running back D’Andre Swift contributed significantly, gaining five yards on two carries before a crucial two-minute warning. Williams connected with rookie tight end Colston Loveland for a first down, while Swift continued to grind out yardage, forcing the Commanders to use two timeouts. Even when Williams faced pressure and was sacked, he ensured that Washington burned its final timeout by staying in bounds.

As the Bears advanced to the Commanders’ 18-yard line, Johnson called a timeout to set up Moody’s decisive kick. The rookie faced challenging conditions, including rain and wind, as well as the pressure of his previous experience with the 49ers. “I felt like we were all cool, calm and collected,” said punter and holder Tory Taylor. “Like I was just trying to think that we’ve done this 1000 times.”

Ultimately, Moody made a 38-yard kick as time expired, sealing the Bears’ victory. The moment marked a turning point for both the team and the kicker. A year prior, a last-second Hail Mary had led to a disappointing 5-12 record and the firing of the head coach. This time, the Bears demonstrated their growth and ability to perform in critical moments.

Williams expressed confidence in the team’s resilience, stating, “We know we can win these games in these moments, in these big moments.” The Bears’ ability to secure this victory on the road continues to build momentum as they look to establish themselves in the league.