Bears Stun Commanders 25-24 with Last‑Second Field Goal on MNF
When Jake Moody, the kicker for Chicago Bears nailed a 41‑yard field goal as the clock hit zero, the Washington Commanders fell 25‑24 in a nail‑biting Monday Night Football showdown on October 13, 2025. The clash unfolded under the lights of FedExField in Landover, Maryland, and the drama hinged on a single play that turned a routine drive into a season‑defining moment. The Bears, coming off a three‑game winning streak after an 0‑2 start, saw their NFC North hopes revived, while Commanders head coach Dan Quinn faced mounting pressure as his squad slipped to 2‑4.
Game Overview: A Thrilling Primetime Battle
The Week 6 encounter was billed as a must‑win for both clubs. Chicago entered the contest at 2‑2, while Washington hovered at 2‑3, each desperate to climb out of early‑season holes. From the opening kickoff, the Bears struck first, converting a short drive into a 7‑0 lead thanks to a D'Andre Swift slashing run that put the ball inside the Commanders’ 30‑yard line. The Commanders answered with a field goal, and the lead changed hands three times before the final minute.
Crucially, Chicago’s offensive line – highlighted by rookie left tackle Theo Benedet – kept the pocket clean enough for quarterback Justin Fields to extend drives. The Bears’ defense, anchored by linebacker Roquan Smith, forced two three‑and‑out sequences in the fourth quarter, setting up the decisive field‑goal attempt.
Key Plays and Performances
Three players stood out:
- Jake Moody – his 41‑yard kick sealed the win; the ball cleared the uprights with just 0.2 seconds left on the clock.
- D'Andre Swift – amassed 115 rushing yards on 18 carries and snagged a 27‑yard reception, becoming the offensive engine.
- Josh Johnson – listed as the Commanders’ emergency quarterback, never saw the field, but his presence underscored Washington’s injury woes.
Washington’s offense struggled to find rhythm, largely due to the absence of star receiver Terry McLaurin, who was listed as inactive. Backup quarterback Taylor Heinicke managed two touchdowns, yet each was negated by a missed extra point or a failed two‑point conversion.
Coaching Decisions & Strategy
Coach Quinn’s play‑calling in the second half drew criticism. Opting for a deep pass on third‑and‑long at midfield resulted in an interception returned to the Bears’ 45‑yard line. That turnover set up a short field for Chicago, culminating in a five‑yard touchdown run by Swift that gave the Bears a 24‑21 edge.
Meanwhile, Bears head coach Matt Eberflus showed poise in clock management. After a successful two‑minute drill that forced a Washington punt, Eberflus elected to run the ball three times, burning 1:43 off the clock before sending Moody out for the final kick. Analysts on NFL.com praised the decision, noting that many teams would have tried a quick field‑goal attempt that could have left time for a Washington comeback.
Implications for Both Franchises
Chicago’s victory snaps a six‑game Monday Night Football drought, the first primetime win since Week 10 of the 2024 season. The Bears now sit at 3‑2, tied for second place in the NFC North with the Detroit Lions, and only three games behind division leader Minnesota Vikings. The win also restores confidence in the team’s younger core, particularly the offensive line’s depth after recent injuries. The Commanders, now 2‑4, find themselves in a precarious spot. The loss drops them to fifth in the NFC East, trailing the Philadelphia Eagles by two games. With the next matchup against the Eagles on the road, Dan Quinn must rally his squad before the bye week.
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Week 7 Matchups
Chicago welcomes the Detroit Lions to Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois on Sunday, October 20, 2025, at 1:00 PM CDT. The Lions, coming off a loss to the Green Bay Packers, will look to challenge the Bears’ revitalized offense.
Washington travels to Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania for a divisional showdown. The Eagles, currently 4‑2, will test the Commanders’ resolve, especially on special teams where a repeat of Moody’s heroics could swing the result.
Historical Context: A Rivalry That Still Thrives
The 2025 encounter marked the 107th all‑time meeting between the Bears and Commanders. Chicago now holds a narrow edge, 56 wins to Washington’s 50, with one tie. The rivalry, dating back to the 1920s, has produced classic moments—from the 1990 “Bears – Sack Attack” game to the 2018 overtime thriller. This week’s finish adds another chapter, reminding fans that a single kick can rewrite a franchise’s narrative.
Key Takeaways
- Jake Moody’s game‑winning field goal lifted Chicago to a 25‑24 victory.
- D'Andre Swift’s dual‑threat performance was the offensive catalyst.
- Strategic clock management by Matt Eberflus proved decisive.
- The Bears improve to 3‑2, revitalizing their NFC North campaign.
- The Commanders slip to 2‑4, facing an uphill battle in the NFC East.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Bears' win affect their standing in the NFC North?
Chicago’s 25‑24 triumph lifts them to a 3‑2 record, tying them with the Detroit Lions for second place and keeping them within three games of the division‑leading Minnesota Vikings. The win also marks their first primetime victory of the season, boosting morale as they head into a crucial home game against the Lions.
What were the critical moments that led to the Commanders’ loss?
Key factors included the early interception on a deep pass, the inability to convert on two‑point attempts after touchdowns, and the loss of top receiver Terry McLaurin, who was inactive. Additionally, a defensive lapse allowed Swift’s 27‑yard gain that set up the go‑ahead field goal.
Which players stood out for the Bears besides Jake Moody?
Running back D'Andre Swift shined with 115 rushing yards and a 27‑yard reception. Rookie left tackle Theo Benedet earned his first start and helped keep the pocket stable, while linebacker Roquan Smith recorded ten tackles and a key sack in the fourth quarter.
What challenges does Dan Quinn face moving forward?
Quinn must address offensive consistency after two consecutive losses, manage injuries that left McLaurin and several linebackers out, and improve special‑teams execution. The upcoming clash with the Eagles will test his ability to adapt play‑calling under pressure.
How does this game compare to previous Bears‑Commanders matchups?
It was the tightest finish since the 2018 overtime showdown, and it marks the first Monday Night Football win for Chicago since 2024. Historically, the series is close, with Chicago holding a slim 56‑50 advantage; games like this keep the rivalry intensely competitive.
