In a game that showcased the stark contrast between two franchises moving in opposite directions, the Detroit Lions edged the Chicago Bears 23-20 on Thanksgiving Day. Detroit extended its winning streak to 10 games, tying a franchise record set by the 1934 squad, while improving to 11-1 for the first time in team history. Meanwhile, Chicago’s late-game woes continued as they dropped their sixth straight game, falling to 4-8 on the season.
The Lions jumped out to a commanding 16-0 lead by halftime, powered by a balanced offensive attack. Jared Goff connected with rookie tight end Sam LaPorta for two touchdown passes, while kicker Jake Bates added three field goals in the first half. Detroit methodically opened the game with four consecutive scoring drives, exploiting Chicago’s early offensive struggles.
On the other side, the Bears sputtered through much of the first half, failing to gain a first down on their first four possessions and managing just 32 total yards. Quarterback Caleb Williams eventually found his rhythm, throwing three touchdown passes—two to Keenan Allen and one to DJ Moore—to spark a comeback attempt.
Williams’ 31-yard strike to Allen in the third quarter cut the deficit to 16-7, but Detroit responded quickly. A 1-yard touchdown toss from Goff to LaPorta, set up by a dazzling 15-yard reverse from Jameson Williams, pushed the Lions’ lead to 23-7 late in the third quarter.
Despite the uphill battle, Caleb Williams showcased why he’s considered one of the league’s brightest young talents. He orchestrated two fourth-quarter touchdown drives, including a 9-yard pass to Allen with 5:36 remaining to bring the Bears within three points.
Chicago had one final chance to tie or win the game, taking possession with less than two minutes to play. Williams methodically moved the Bears into Lions territory, reaching the Detroit 41-yard line. But with less than 30 seconds left, disaster struck. Williams took a crucial sack, and despite having one timeout remaining, the Bears failed to stop the clock in time for another play. The game ended on an incomplete pass as time expired, leaving Chicago’s sideline visibly frustrated.
For Detroit, this victory continued a dream season. The Lions lead the NFL in point differential and have routinely routed opponents en route to their 11-1 record. Their 10-game winning streak has them firmly atop the NFC standings, with legitimate Super Bowl aspirations.
“We’re finding ways to win, and that’s what good teams do,” said Goff, who finished the day 24 of 33 for 278 yards and two touchdowns. “This was a gritty win against a division rival.”
In contrast, the Bears’ season has been defined by near-misses and heartbreak. Chicago has lost six straight games, including four by a combined total of 10 points. Head coach Matt Eberflus, now 5-17 in games decided by seven points or fewer, finds himself under increasing scrutiny.
The Lions, now boasting the best record in the NFL, will look to keep their momentum going as they eye a first-round playoff bye. Meanwhile, the Bears will need to regroup quickly, with questions looming about their ability to close out games and the long-term direction of the franchise.
As Thanksgiving games go, this one provided all the drama and tension fans could hope for, solidifying Detroit’s dominance and leaving Chicago searching for answers.
