Lions End Season With Last-Second Field Goal Win Over Bears.

The Detroit Lions closed their season with a dramatic victory, defeating the NFC North–champion Chicago Bears 19–16 on Sunday when Jake Bates drilled a 42-yard field goal as time expired.vQuarterback Jared Goff guided Detroit on five scoring drives, helping the Lions rebound after surrendering a 16-point lead in the fourth quarter. Although Detroit fell short of the playoffs, the win offered a measure of redemption after a disappointing finish to the season. “It was good to see our identity show up again,” Goff said. “Even though we’re not moving on, ending this way matters.” Detroit head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged the frustration of missing the postseason but emphasized growth moving forward. “This is fuel,” Campbell said. “We don’t want to be in this position again.” Chicago, which entered the game already locked into the postseason, erased a 16–0 deficit behind two late touchdown passes from rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. The Bears (11–6) still secured the NFC’s No. 2 seed and will host Green Bay in the wild-card round. Williams finished with 212 passing yards, bringing his season total to 3,942 and setting a new franchise record. Despite the loss, he remained focused on the playoffs, saying the team plans to channel its frustration into preparation for next week. Detroit (9–8) sealed the victory after Chicago opted to punt on fourth-and-5 late in the game. A key 26-yard completion from Goff to Amon-Ra St. Brown moved the Lions into field-goal range, setting up Bates’ game-winning kick. St. Brown recorded 11 catches for 139 yards, while Jahmyr Gibbs added 80 rushing yards and a touchdown reception.

Goff threw for 331 yards with one touchdown and one interception.

The Bears’ comeback featured touchdown receptions by Jahdae Walker and Colston Loveland, along with two successful two-point conversions that tied the game late in the fourth quarter. Defensive back Kevin Byard also contributed an interception for Chicago.

Despite the loss, Bears coach Ben Johnson highlighted the team’s resilience and playoff opportunity ahead. “We’re turning the page,” Johnson said. “This is a new season now.”

Detroit now enters the offseason, while Chicago prepares to host Green Bay in Saturday night’s wild-card matchup.