The Minnesota Vikings continued their impressive run, defeating the Chicago Bears 30-12 on Monday night to secure their seventh consecutive victory. This win brings them level with their division rivals for the top spot. The Vikings' defense proved too much for Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, sacking him twice and limiting Chicago to a single third-down conversion in 11 attempts.
With former Vikings receiver Randy Moss battling a recent cancer diagnosis, the atmosphere in Minneapolis was charged with emotion. Vikings legends Cris Carter and Jake Reed led tributes to Moss, while current star Justin Jefferson added his own well wishes with an early touchdown. Jefferson's 7-yard reception from Sam Darnold marked his eighth touchdown of the season. He ended the night with seven catches for 73 yards.
Darnold completed 24 of 40 passes for 231 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. The Vikings' ground game also contributed significantly, with Aaron Jones rushing for 86 yards and a touchdown, and Cam Akers adding another 24 yards and a score.
The Bears' struggles were compounded by a series of errors and relentless defensive pressure. A potential touchdown run by D’Andre Swift was negated by an illegal formation penalty, and a subsequent holding call pushed them back further, forcing them to settle for a field goal. Chicago's offense sputtered, managing only 12 points, including a late touchdown pass from Williams to Keenan Allen. Williams finished 18 of 31 for 191 yards, while Allen recorded six catches for 82 yards.
The victory improved Minnesota's record to an impressive 12-2, marking their second 12-win season in three years. Meanwhile, the Bears dropped to 4-10, facing a challenging offseason ahead.
