Caleb Williams' Heroic Comeback Seals Bears' Playoff Berth, Earns Tom Brady's Praise

In the crucible of a late-season rivalry game with playoff implications on the line, Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams authored a chapter that will be remembered in franchise lore. Facing a 16-9 deficit with under two minutes remaining against the Green Bay Packers, Williams orchestrated a breathtaking comeback, forcing overtime before delivering a game-winning 46-yard touchdown pass to DJ Moore. The 22-16 victory not only clinched a playoff spot for the Bears but also solidified Williams' status as a premier clutch performer, earning him the ultimate nod from a legend: Tom Brady's "LFG Player of the Game" award.

The Anatomy of a Comeback

The Bears' path to victory was forged in the final moments of regulation. Trailing by a touchdown, the game appeared all but over. The turning point came from an unlikely source: special teams. Kicker Cairo Santos executed a perfectly placed onside kick that caromed off Packers wide receiver Romeo Doubs, giving Chicago possession with 1:56 left on the clock. Williams, demonstrating the poise that has become his trademark, immediately capitalized on the opportunity. He led a rapid 53-yard touchdown drive, connecting with rookie wide receiver Jahdae Walker to tie the game as time expired in the fourth quarter, sending the contest to overtime.

Seizing the Moment in Overtime

After the Bears defense forced a critical turnover on downs on Green Bay's opening overtime possession, the stage was set for Williams to complete the story. Taking over near midfield, he needed only four plays. Following runs by D’Andre Swift and rookie Kyle Monangai, Williams faced a crucial third down. With winds exceeding 20 mph affecting play all night, he launched a deep pass to his star receiver, DJ Moore. The ball found its target for a spectacular 46-yard walk-off touchdown, sending Soldier Field into a frenzy and securing the NFC North lead. Williams finished the game 19-of-34 for 250 yards and two touchdowns, with his most important throws coming when they mattered most.

Earning Legendary Recognition

In the aftermath of the victory, Williams was presented with a unique honor: the "LFG Player of the Game" award from seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady. The award, part of Brady's digital content series, recognizes outstanding individual performances. In a post-game conversation captured by FOX Sports, Williams distilled his team's mentality for Brady. "I've said it multiple times. We're going to fight," Williams stated. "We're going to fight until the clock says zero. And from there, we'll give it our best shot." This resilience, embodied in the comeback, is the defining characteristic of the 2025 Chicago Bears.

What This Victory Means for the Bears

This win transcends a single game. It represents a cultural shift for the Bears, establishing them as a resilient contender capable of winning under pressure. The victory places them in "pole position" in the NFC North, essentially punching their ticket to the postseason. For Caleb Williams, in just his second year, it marks a significant milestone in his development, proving he can deliver in the most high-stakes environments against a historic rival. The performance against Green Bay serves as a powerful statement to the rest of the league that Chicago is a team built for January football.

Caleb Williams' legendary comeback against the Packers was more than just a win; it was a declaration. It announced the arrival of the Bears as a legitimate playoff force and underscored Williams' emergence as an elite quarterback capable of carrying his team. By earning Tom Brady's "LFG" award, Williams received validation from the standard-bearer of clutch performance. As the Bears head into the playoffs, they do so with the confidence born from knowing they have a quarterback who will fight until the clock hits zero, a trait that makes any team dangerous in the postseason.