Picture this: It’s a drizzly Monday night in Washington, the kind where the field slicks up just enough to make every snap a gamble. I’m huddled on my couch, heart pounding like it did last year when that Hail Mary shattered Bears fans everywhere. Back then, I was at a watch party, screaming at the TV as Noah Brown hauled in Jayden Daniels’ prayer for an 18-15 stunner. Fast forward to October 13, 2025, and the script flips deliciously. The Chicago Bears, down but never out, snatch a 25-24 victory on Jake Moody’s 38-yard field goal as the clock hits zero. It’s poetic justice, turning last year’s nightmare into this season’s triumph, and it had me jumping like a kid again.
This wasn’t just a win; it was redemption wrapped in grit. Caleb Williams outdueled Daniels in a rematch buzzing with hype, D’Andre Swift dazzled, and the defense forced key turnovers. We’ll break it all down, from the highs that had fans roaring to the what-ifs that kept it close. If you’re a Bears diehard or just love NFL drama, this game’s got layers—like how a fumbled handoff handed Chicago the chance to rewrite history. Grab a coffee; we’re diving in with stories, stats, and a dash of that sweet, sweet vengeance.
The Build-Up to the Rematch
Everyone knew this game carried extra weight. Last year’s Week 8 clash ended with Daniels’ 52-yard bomb to Brown, dubbed the “Hail Maryland” in D.C. and a gut punch in Chicago. Fast forward, and both teams entered 3-2, with the Bears fresh off a bye and the Commanders riding a win over the Chargers. The stage was set for fireworks under the lights.
Rookie sensations Williams and Daniels, the top two picks from 2024, added star power. Williams aimed to prove his growth; Daniels sought to repeat his magic. Add in missing stars like Commanders’ Terry McLaurin, and it felt like a chess match where one slip could decide it all.
Pre-game buzz on X was electric, with fans trading barbs about last year’s miracle. One post nailed it: “Bears get revenge or Commanders double down?” Spoiler: Chicago chose door number one.
Key Moments That Defined the Game
The contest swung like a pendulum, starting with Bears dominance. They jumped to a 13-0 lead off turnovers, but Washington clawed back, taking a slim edge late. Then came the fourth-quarter frenzy: Swift’s TD, a blocked field goal, and that fateful fumble.
Daniels’ miscue on a handoff to Jacory Croskey-Merritt gifted Chicago the ball at their 44 with minutes left. Williams marched them downfield, setting up Moody’s heroics. It was tense, rainy, and utterly gripping—like watching a thriller where you know the good guys win but still bite your nails.
Post-game, Williams called it “big for us,” echoing the emotional lift. For fans like me, it erased some 2024 scars, turning frustration into fist pumps.
Jake Moody’s Clutch Kick
Signed just days prior after Cairo Santos’ injury, Moody nailed a 38-yarder through the mist. It wasn’t a Hail Mary, but it felt miraculous. His poise under pressure? Chef’s kiss.
From jobless to game-winner, Moody’s story adds fairy-tale flair. Bears coach Ben Johnson praised his calm, saying it steadied the sideline. No wonder teammates mobbed him post-kick.
That boot not only won the game but boosted Chicago’s kicker confidence, a sore spot lately.
Caleb Williams’ Steady Hand
Williams dazzled with 252 passing yards, a TD toss, and a rushing score. His poise shone on the final drive, converting key throws amid pressure. Not flawless, but growth evident from rookie struggles.
Compared to Daniels’ three TDs but costly picks and fumble, Williams edged the duel. It’s funny—last year, Daniels stole the show; this time, Williams played closer.
His leadership? Infectious. Teammates rave about his fire, and it showed in rallying from an eight-point hole.
D’Andre Swift’s Explosive Plays
Swift was a beast, rushing for 108 yards and adding 67 receiving, including a 55-yard TD scamper that dodged tackles like a video game. His burst flipped momentum when Chicago needed it most.
Signed to spark the run game, Swift delivered. His vision and speed exploited Washington’s front, averaging over seven yards a carry. Pure electricity.
Without his big plays, the Bears might not have positioned for the win. He’s the engine driving this offense forward.
Defensive Standouts and Turnovers
Chicago’s D forced three turnovers, equaling Washington’s season total entering the game. Jaquan Brisker’s interception set an early tone, leading to points. They bent but rarely broke, holding Daniels to 211 yards.
Turnovers doomed the Commanders—Daniels’ pick, a fumble, another miscue. Bears capitalized, scoring 10 off them. It’s a reminder: Ball security wins games.
Nahshon Wright’s fumble recovery sealed the deal. Defense wasn’t perfect, allowing three TD passes, but timely stops mattered most.
Jaquan Brisker’s Interception
Brisker snagged Daniels’ errant throw in the first half, racing back for solid return yards. It sparked a TD drive, building that 13-0 lead.
His read on the play? Instinctual. Bears secondary, often criticized, stepped up big here.
That pick shifted energy, showing Chicago could disrupt Washington’s rhythm.
Comparing 2024 and 2025 Matchups
Last year: Commanders 18-15, won on Daniels’ 52-yard Hail Mary to Brown as time expired. Bears led most, but collapsed late. Heartbreaker.
This year: Bears 25-24, Moody’s FG flips it. Chicago overcame deficits, forced errors. Both games nail-biters, but roles reversed.
2024 sparked Washington’s run to conference title game; Bears spiraled to 10 losses. 2025? Boosts Chicago’s momentum, drops Commanders to .500.
Table: Key Stats Comparison
| Category | 2024 Game (Commanders Win) | 2025 Game (Bears Win) |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 18-15 | 25-24 |
| Passing Yards (QB Duel) | Daniels: 326, Williams: 282 | Williams: 252, Daniels: 211 |
| Turnovers | Bears: 2, Commanders: 1 | Bears: 0, Commanders: 3 |
| Deciding Play | Hail Mary TD | 38-Yard FG |
Sources: NFL.com and ESPN.
Pros and Cons of the Bears’ Victory
Pros:
- Momentum builder: Third straight win, hitting 3-2 post-bye.
- QB growth: Williams’ composure in clutch moments silences doubters.
- Defensive resilience: Forcing turnovers against a top offense.
Cons:
- Injury concerns: DJ Moore stayed for checks; LB Noah Sewell concussed.
- Run defense lapses: Allowed chunks, could haunt against stronger fronts.
- Kicker uncertainty: Moody’s debut great, but Santos’ status looms.
Impact on the Season Outlook
This win propels Bears into a softer schedule stretch, eyeing playoff contention. At 3-2, they’re in the mix in NFC North. Williams’ development accelerates; Swift’s emergence balances the attack.
For Commanders, 3-3 exposes vulnerabilities—turnovers, missing receivers. They alternate wins/losses; need consistency to chase Eagles in NFC East.
Analysts buzz: Could this spark Chicago’s rise? History says yes, if they build on it.
Rookie QB Duel: Williams vs. Daniels
Williams: Efficient, dual-threat, led comeback. Edges in yards, no turnovers.
Daniels: Flashy TDs but costly mistakes. Last year’s hero, this year’s lesson.
Rematch lived up to hype, showcasing why both are future stars. Williams flips narrative.
Where to Watch Highlights and Replays
Catch full recaps on NFL.com or ESPN apps. For condensed action, YouTube has official highlights. Navigational tip: Head to NFL Game Pass for replays.
Internal guide: Check our NFL highlights hub for more breakdowns.
Don’t miss post-game pods on Spotify—great for commutes.
Best Tools for NFL Analysis
Transactional picks: Use ESPN Fantasy app for player stats like Swift’s. Pro Football Focus grades performances deeply.
For betting, DraftKings offers odds; always gamble responsibly. Best free tool? NFL’s official site for box scores.
Apps like Sleeper track real-time updates—perfect for fans.
What is a Hail Mary in Football?
It’s a desperate, long pass into the end zone as time expires, hoping for a miracle catch. Named after a 1975 Cowboys play invoking prayer.
In 2024, Daniels’ version beat Bears; 2025 saw no such drama, just steady execution.
Emotional tie: These plays etch memories, win or lose.
People Also Ask
Who won the Bears vs Commanders game?
The Chicago Bears edged the Washington Commanders 25-24 on October 13, 2025, thanks to Jake Moody’s last-second field goal.
What was the score of the Bears-Commanders game?
Final score: Bears 25, Commanders 24. Chicago overcame a late deficit in a thriller.
How did Jayden Daniels perform against the Bears?
Daniels threw for 211 yards and three TDs but had an interception and fumble that proved costly.
Why was this game a rematch with extra significance?
It flipped the 2024 script where Commanders won on a Hail Mary; Bears got revenge this time.
FAQ
What caused the Commanders’ loss in the 2025 Bears game?
Three turnovers, including Daniels’ late fumble, doomed them despite three TD passes.
How has Caleb Williams improved since 2024?
Better decision-making, fewer turnovers, and clutch drives show his growth in Year 2.
What are the Bears’ chances for playoffs after this win?
At 3-2, with a winnable slate ahead, they’re contenders if defense holds.
Where can I find more on the 2024 Hail Mary play?
Check NFL archives or The Athletic’s oral history.
Who was the Bears’ MVP in the Commanders game?
D’Andre Swift’s 175 all-purpose yards and TD edged Williams for impact.
That wraps our deep dive into a game that’ll linger for Bears fans. From heartbreak to heroics, it’s why we love football—the twists keep coming. I still chuckle at how fate turned tables; maybe next rematch brings more magic. Stay tuned for more NFL insights. (Word count: 2,678)
