In a dramatic Week 12 NFL clash, the Minnesota Vikings overcame a late-game meltdown to edge the Chicago Bears 30-27 in overtime. Quarterback Sam Darnold played hero, throwing for 90 of his 330 yards in the extra period to set up Parker Romo’s game-winning 29-yard field goal.
Minnesota improved to 9-2, staying just a game behind Detroit in the competitive NFC North, while the Bears (4-7) suffered their fifth straight loss, three of which have been heartbreakers decided on the final play.
The Vikings appeared to have the game well in hand, leading 27-16 with 1:56 left after Romo’s 26-yard field goal. But Chicago refused to go quietly.
Deandre Carter, who earlier muffed a punt that led to a Vikings touchdown, sparked the Bears with a 55-yard kickoff return to the 40-yard line. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams then orchestrated a furious eight-play drive, culminating in a 1-yard touchdown pass to Keenan Allen. A 2-point conversion to DJ Moore trimmed the deficit to 27-24 with just 22 seconds remaining.
The Bears kept their hopes alive by recovering the ensuing onside kick. Williams quickly connected with Moore for a 27-yard gain to Minnesota’s 30-yard line before spiking the ball. Cairo Santos nailed a 48-yard field goal as time expired, sending the game into overtime.
Chicago won the coin toss, but their momentum stalled. Vikings defensive end Jonathan Greenard delivered a crucial 12-yard sack of Williams, forcing the Bears to punt.
Starting at their own 21-yard line, Darnold methodically led a 10-play drive. Despite an opening sack by Montez Sweat and two penalties, Darnold kept his composure. A 29-yard strike to tight end T.J. Hockenson put the Vikings on the 9-yard line. After Darnold took a knee, Romo drilled the winning kick to cap a wild finish.
Darnold continued his breakout season, completing 22 of 34 passes for 330 yards and two touchdowns. Jordan Addison had a career-best game, catching eight passes for 162 yards and a touchdown, while Hockenson added 114 yards receiving. Running back Aaron Jones chipped in with 106 rushing yards and a score.
For the Bears, Williams dazzled with 340 passing yards, two touchdowns, and a 103.1 passer rating in his second strong outing under new offensive coordinator Thomas Brown. Moore caught seven passes for 106 yards and a touchdown, and Allen added 86 yards and the late TD.
The Bears’ latest gut-wrenching loss raises more questions about the future of head coach Matt Eberflus. Chicago is now 5-18 in one-possession games during his tenure, with a 14-31 overall record in 2.5 seasons.
The Vikings (9-2) will host the Arizona Cardinals next Sunday, aiming to keep pace with Detroit in the NFC North. The Bears (4-7) face another daunting challenge, traveling to play the Lions on Thanksgiving.
Minnesota will celebrate the win, but the lessons from their near-collapse could prove invaluable as they prepare for a playoff push. Meanwhile, Chicago’s young core, led by Williams, continues to show flashes of potential in a season marked by growing pains.
