Divisional rivals the Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears met at Soldier Field on Sunday for a much anticipated battle. The Lions entered the contest a disappointing (but not unexpected) 4-7. The Bears on the other hand entered with lofty playoff aspiriations, projected for the 6th seed entering the game at 7-4.

The Bears won the toss and deferred. The Lions responded, methodically driving the ball down the field and scoring, taking the lead 7-0. The Bears offense, led by Jameis Winston, attempted to respond with all the makings of their own scoring drive, but an interception ground the drive to a halt and swung possession back to the Lions. Jameis struggled to protect the ball throughout the game, to totaling 2 interceptions by the time the final whistle blew.

Going into half the Lions led 17-14. That is where the Bears “bend don’t break” defense drew the line. The Bears defense did not allow a single point for the remainder of the game, spurred on by some key 3rd down stops and an interception by Eddie Jackson. The Bears offense capitalized on the defenses strong play. The Bears receiving core was led by Scotty Miller and Darnell Mooney, combining for 7 receptions, 159 yards, and a touchdown. Darnell Mooney also got involved in the ground game from the wildcat formation, rushing 4 times for 23 yards and a TD. In the 4th quarter the Bears offense rode on the back of running back David Montgomery, who rushed 10 times for 60 yards and a TD. 

The Bears won the game 27-17, stretching their win streak to 4 and further solidifying their claim to a playoff spot. However, 2 critical divisional matchups remain in the next 4 games that could make or break the Bears season: a rematch against the Vikings in week 15 and a season close out matchup against the Packers in week 17. If the Bears want to keep their playoff hopes and dreams alive they’ll need to remain perfect in division (and ideally in general) for the remainder of the season. The Bears will look to continue their win streak next week against Deshaun Watson and the Texans.