Lions Earn First Win of the Season with Gritty 17-14 Victory Over Bears

CHICAGO, IL — The Detroit Lions finally found the win column, defeating the Chicago Bears 17-14 in a closely contested NFC North battle. Entering the game at 0-3, Detroit leaned on strong performances from Jared Goff and Jahmyr Gibbs to secure their first victory, while the Bears, now 2-2, suffered their second straight divisional loss.

Game Recap

The Lions set the tone early, striking first at the 5:51 mark of the first quarter when Gibbs powered into the end zone for a touchdown. The Bears responded in the second quarter, tying the game at 7-7 on a pass from Caleb Williams to Rome Odunze.

Detroit quickly answered back before halftime, as Goff connected with Sam LaPorta for a touchdown with just 1:50 left in the second quarter, giving the Lions a 14-7 advantage at the break.

Both defenses tightened up in the third quarter, but the Lions managed to extend their lead when Brendan Baugh knocked through a field goal with 1:33 remaining in the third. Chicago fought back in the fourth quarter, with Williams once again finding Odunze for a 5-yard touchdown pass, bringing the Bears within three points. However, Detroit’s defense held strong in the final minutes to seal the win.

Key Stats

The Lions’ offense was efficient, totaling 241 yards, with Goff completing 19-of-29 passes for 142 yards and a touchdown. Gibbs led the rushing attack with 37 yards and a touchdown on five carries, while LaPorta recorded four catches for 27 yards and a touchdown. The Lions’ defense stepped up, sacking Williams three times and forcing a key fourth-quarter stop.

For the Bears, Williams finished with 284 passing yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Odunze had a standout performance, hauling in eight receptions for 109 yards and two touchdowns, but Chicago’s rushing attack struggled, managing just 25 total rushing yards.

Up Next

The Bears (2-2) will remain at home next week to face the Seattle Seahawks, looking to bounce back from consecutive losses. Meanwhile, the Lions (1-3) return home to take on the Philadelphia Eagles, aiming to build momentum after their first win of the season.