The Seattle Seahawks didn’t necessarily need a win on Thursday night to keep their playoff dreams alive, but their offense sure played like it. Yet, despite a lackluster showing on one side of the ball, it was the Seahawks’ ferocious defense that saved the day, ensuring a 6-3 victory over the Chicago Bears. This game was a true slugfest, and while it may not have been pretty, it showcased some pivotal moments for both teams. Let’s dive into what made this matchup both frustrating and fascinating.
An Unforgettable Defensive Stand
The Seahawks’ defense was absolutely relentless. Mike Macdonald’s unit delivered a dominant performance that more than compensated for the offense’s forgettable night. Seven sacks from six different players kept the pressure on Chicago’s Caleb Williams, the most sacked quarterback in the NFL. The highlight? A last-second interception by Riq Woolen that sealed the game and left fans holding their breath until the final whistle. Uchenna Nwosu, battling through an injury-plagued season, recorded his first sack and reminded everyone of his value on the field.
Offense Struggles to Shine
Seattle’s offense had a rough night, managing only 265 yards and two field goals—their worst performance in over a year. Geno Smith’s outing was underwhelming, completing 17 of 23 passes for 160 yards with no touchdowns. While he avoided interceptions, a red-zone near-miss on the opening drive and a fumble after holding onto the ball too long marred his night. Still, Smith has proven to thrive outside of harsh weather conditions, so the upcoming game at the indoor SoFi Stadium could be a much-needed reset for him—and his $6 million in potential contract escalators are certainly added motivation.
Glimmers of Hope in the Run Game
Despite their struggles, the Seahawks found some success on the ground, especially early on. Their opening drive showcased 53 rushing yards, almost matching last week’s total of 59. By the end of the game, Seattle’s rushing attack accumulated 122 yards on 25 carries. Zach Charbonnet led the way with 57 yards on 15 attempts, stepping up in Kenneth Walker III’s absence. While the run game hasn’t been as consistent as coach Macdonald would like, it remains a crucial piece of the puzzle as they eye a playoff berth.
Pivotal Moments That Changed the Game
One of the most dramatic moments came late in the third quarter when Chicago’s cornerback Kyler Gordon stripped tight end Pharaoh Brown and returned the ball for what appeared to be a touchdown. The officials, however, ruled Gordon was down by contact. Seattle’s defense capitalized, with Nwosu’s 14-yard sack stalling the Bears’ drive and forcing a punt. It was a critical sequence that kept the Seahawks in the lead and showcased the defense’s ability to rise under pressure.
Bears’ Offensive Woes Continue
For the Bears, it was another night of missed opportunities and offensive struggles. Caleb Williams averaged just 1.3 air yards per completion, marking his lowest of the season. With key players like left tackle Braxton Jones and left guard Teven Jenkins sidelined, Chicago’s offensive line struggled to protect their quarterback. Williams endured relentless pressure, being sacked seven times, bringing his season total to a staggering 67. That’s the second-highest total for a rookie quarterback, trailing only David Carr’s infamous 76-sack season in 2002.
Hard to Watch but Harder to Forget
If we’re describing this game in two words, it’s “hard watch.” Chicago’s offense managed only 3.1 yards per play, and even their best drive—a 67-yard effort chewing up nearly eight minutes—ended in a field goal after a holding penalty negated a touchdown. The Bears’ defense did its part to keep the game close, registering three sacks for the first time since Week 12, but it wasn’t enough to overcome their offensive shortcomings.
Bright Spots for the Bears
Despite their 10th consecutive loss, the Bears had a few standout performances. Former Seahawks defensive end Darrell Taylor recorded his first sack since Week 1, and defensive tackle Byron Cowart earned his first full sack since 2020. While it’s little solace in the wake of another loss, these moments give Chicago something to build on as they prepare to close out their season against Green Bay.
Playoff Implications and What’s Next
For Seattle, the victory keeps them in the hunt for the playoffs, but their path is narrow. The only route to postseason glory is by clinching the NFC West title. That requires a Los Angeles Rams loss to the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday and a Seahawks victory over the Rams at SoFi Stadium next week. It’s a tall order, but stranger things have happened in football.
Meanwhile, the Bears’ season has fallen far short of expectations, and with their 4-12 record, they’re now looking to finish strong in Week 18. Chicago’s general manager, Ryan Poles, has acknowledged their slow starts, citing unresolved issues from training camp as a root cause. Whether those issues are addressed in the offseason remains to be seen, but for now, the Bears will aim to end their campaign on a high note.
Final Thoughts
Thursday night’s game may not go down as a classic, but it was a gritty, hard-fought battle that showcased the resilience of Seattle’s defense and the struggles of both offenses. For the Seahawks, it’s all about building on this win and finding a way to perform at their best when it matters most. For the Bears, it’s another lesson in a season full of them, with a clear need for improvement heading into next year. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just a casual viewer, this game was a reminder that football is as much about perseverance as it is about skill.
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