Chicago Bears Score and Recap (Week 18): Vikings 29, Bears 13 – Bears Lose Secure Top Draft Pick
The Bears finished up a disappointing season at home against the Vikings on Sunday afternoon. Chicago would end up losing again but would come out ahead thanks to old friend Lovie Smith.
The Vikings rushed ahead to a 16-0 advantage after touchdowns by Adam Thielen and Alexander Mattison. Chicago was able to respond when rookie Velus Jones Jr took an end around for 42-yards and a touchdown.
A failed two-point conversion and a botched Minnesota field goal kept the score at 16-6 after the first half. The Vikings backup players came in in the third quarter and were able to score a touchdown on another Mattison run.
Nathan Peterman hooked up with Cole Kmet for a nifty TD to cut the deficit to 10. That was a close as the Bears would get in the game as the Vikings would go on to win playing 29-13. (Box score)
Why the Bears Lost
Chicago’s decimated defense posed absolutely no challenge to the Vikings starters or backups on Sunday. Minnesota only punted once in the game.
Key Moment
The Houston Texans scored an improbable last-second touchdown to beat the Indianapolis Colts and give the Chicago Bears the top pick in the 2023 draft.
Stats That Matter
- Kmet finished the season on a high-note with 57 yards and a touchdown.
- Jones had two explosive plays on Sunday as he looks like a big play threat going forward.
Bottom Line
Well the Bears lost 10-consecutive games to end the season, a franchise record. Based on their off-season moves, the goal appeared to be tanking from the start. The plan worked better than they could’ve hoped for with Chicago holding the top pick. With tremendous salary cap space and draft capital, GM Ryan Poles and the front office need to use it to build a contender.
Next Up
The Bears season is over but they are officially on the clock for the 2023 NFL draft.
