The Detroit Lions continued their impressive 2024 NFL season, defeating the Chicago Bears 34-17 at Soldier Field on December 22, 2024. The victory brought the Lions’ record to 13-2, securing their playoff aspirations, even as they dealt with significant injuries.
The game kicked off with high stakes for both teams: the Lions were chasing the top seed, motivated after suffering a close loss to the Buffalo Bills the previous week, which had ended their 11-game winning streak. Meanwhile, the Bears, struggling with their own eight-game losing streak, looked to redeem themselves on home turf.
The Lions struck first, with quarterback Jared Goff leading the offense like clockwork. His passing was on point, as evidenced by his three touchdown passes, including two early ones which helped the Lions build momentum. Goff's connection with tight end Sam LaPorta proved lethal, especially with LaPorta's 21-yard touchdown reception stretching the Lions' lead. Goff also connected with Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams for key receptions, the latter catching an impressive 82-yard touchdown pass, underscoring the Lions’ explosive offensive capabilities. According to USA TODAY, the score was indicative of Goff's efficiency and the Lions' strategic execution.
By the end of the first quarter, the Lions were already up 13-0 and showed no signs of slowing down. The Bears, on the other hand, struggled severely. A fumble from rookie receiver Rome Odunze early on set the tone for Chicago, putting immense pressure on Caleb Williams, the Bears’ young quarterback who was expected to shine but faltered under the constant Lions pressure.
The Bears finally found the end zone when Caleb Williams connected with standout tight end Cole Kmet for a 1-yard touchdown pass, which marked the first points scored by the Bears in the first half since Week 12. Their efforts, nonetheless, seemed like too little, too late. The Bears went to halftime trailing 27-14.
Throughout the game, injuries haunted both teams. The Lions announced Graham Glasgow would not be playing due to knee issues, which added concerns to their already beleaguered offensive line. Running back David Montgomery was also sidelined, forcing Detroit to rely heavily on Jahmyr Gibbs, who performed admirably under the circumstances. Lions head coach Dan Campbell remarked on the need to be cautious with Gibbs’s touches, underscoring their commitment to his long-term health.
Despite facing adversities, the Lions maintained composure, effectively neutralizing the Bears’ offense, which had shown glimpses of promise yet was marred by mistakes. Williams had moments of brilliance, like his 45-yard touchdown to Keenan Allen, but those moments were rare amid costly turnovers.
By the third quarter, the Lions successfully extended their lead to 34-14 after Goff's trick play touchdown pass to LaPorta. The Bears attempted to claw back, but each drive was thwarted by the Lions’ defense, which, bolstered by the return of safety Ifeatu Melifonwu, managed to hold firm against Chicago's advancing plays. The Bears settled for another field goal, bringing the score to 34-17, but time was not on their side.
Despite their efforts, the Bears were unable to effectively challenge the Lions’ lead, and the game concluded with Detroit remaining dominant. The Bears' mounting injuries and lack of strategy left them outmatched. With this victory, the Lions now set their eyes on the playoffs, freshly back on track after their previous defeat from the Bills. They established their intent: a franchise-record season and aspirations for continued success.
Overall, Chicago's struggle to maintain consistency put their future plans under scrutiny. The Lions, meanwhile, reflecting on their adaptability amid injuries, showcased resilience—great news for their playoff hopes as the season drew to its climax.
