When Josh Blackwell, a defensive back for the Chicago Bears, blocked a last‑second field‑goal attempt by the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on Sunday, September 28, 2025, the game turned into a 25‑24 victory that pushed the Bears to 2‑2 and left the Raiders sliding to 1‑3. The dramatic finish not only altered the NFC North race but also gave Chicago its 800th regular‑season win, a milestone previously reserved for the Green Bay Packers.
Historical Context and the 800‑Win Club
The Bears entered the matchup with a storied past but a shaky start to the 2025 season, sitting at an even 1‑1 after a Friday night loss to Detroit. Reaching 800 victories places them alongside the Packers, who sit at 812. That club is tiny – only two franchises have ever cracked the 800‑win barrier in the NFL’s 106‑year history. The significance lies not just in numbers; it reflects a culture of consistency that many analysts say the Bears hope to revive under head coach Matt Eberflus. The Raiders, on the other hand, were trying to shake a three‑game losing streak that had them languishing at the bottom of the AFC West.
Game‑by‑Game Summary: How the Score Unfolded
Kickoff was at 4:25 p.m. ET, broadcast on CBS. The Raiders struck first, turning a short run by rookie Ashton Jeanty into a 7‑0 lead. Chicago answered with a 31‑yard field goal from Cameron Dicker, making it 7‑3.
- First quarter ended 7‑3 Raiders.
- Second quarter: both teams added a touchdown; Bears tacked on two field goals, going into halftime 14‑9.
- Third quarter: each side scored a touchdown, tying it at 21‑21.
- Fourth quarter: Bears scored nine unanswered points before the Raiders' missed field goal.
Standout Performances
Even in defeat, rookie running back Ashton Jeanty turned heads. He rushed for 138 yards on 21 carries (6.6 yards per carry) and added three touchdowns – one on the ground, two as a receiver. The feat made him the first Raiders rookie to score three touchdowns in a single game since Bo Jackson did it in 1987 against Seattle. For Chicago, the offensive line struggled to create space, chalking up only 69 rushing yards total. The ground game was especially anemic in the first half, with a mere 2 yards – the fewest first‑half rushing yards the Bears have posted since a –1‑yard night against Minnesota in Week 17 of 2017. Still, quarterback Justin Fields managed 210 passing yards and two touchdowns, doing enough to stay in the game.
Impact on the Standings
In the NFC North, the Bears now sit tied for third at 2‑2, trailing the Detroit Lions (3‑1) and the Green Bay Packers (2‑1‑1). A win keeps Chicago in the hunt for a wildcard spot, but they’ll need to tighten up that run game if they hope to challenge the division leader. Across the league, the Raiders remain dead‑last in the AFC West at 1‑3, behind the Los Angeles Chargers (3‑1), Kansas City Chiefs (2‑2), and Denver Broncos (1‑2). Their loss widened the gap in a tightly contested division where one win can shuffle the order dramatically.
What the Experts Are Saying
Fox Sports analyst Mike Pereira noted, “The Bears’ defense proved why they were favored by the spread; they made plays when the offense stalled.” Meanwhile, ESPN’s senior writer Field Yates pointed out that “the blocked field goal was the defining moment, but the real story is how Chicago managed to keep the ball out of the Raiders’ hands when it mattered most.”
Looking Ahead: Next Week’s Matchups
Chicago travels to Minnesota next Sunday, where they’ll face a Vikings defense that has surrendered an average of 23.4 points per game. If the Bears can improve their rushing attack, they could capitalize on a favorable matchup. The Raiders bounce back at home against the Kansas City Chiefs. Even with a tough opponent, Jeanty’s breakout performance suggests the Raiders have a weapon that can keep games close if the defense stiffens.
Key Takeaways
- Blocked field goal sealed a 25‑24 win for the Bears.
- Josh Blackwell’s play made Chicago the second franchise ever to hit 800 regular‑season wins.
- Rome Odunze joined an exclusive club of Bears receivers with touchdowns in each of the first four games.
- Ashton Jeanty recorded 138 rushing yards and three touchdowns, echoing Bo Jackson’s rookie heroics.
- The Bears’ defense produced four takeaways, compensating for a stunted offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the blocked field goal affect the Bears’ playoff chances?
The win improves Chicago to 2‑2, keeping them within striking distance of the NFC North leader. While one game won’t guarantee a playoff spot, it buys the Bears a crucial tiebreaker over Detroit and Minnesota if they finish with similar records.
What does Ashton Jeanty’s performance mean for the Raiders?
Jeanty’s 138 rushing yards and three touchdowns highlight his potential as a dual‑threat back. If the Raiders can build a consistent offensive line around him, he could become the focal point of their attack and help lift the team out of the AFC West basement.
Why is reaching 800 wins a big deal for the Bears?
Only the Green Bay Packers have previously amassed 800 regular‑season victories. Joining that elite group underscores Chicago’s long‑term resilience and gives the franchise a marketing boost as they celebrate a historic milestone.
What were the key factors behind the Bears’ defensive success?
Four takeaways – two interceptions by safety Eddie Jackson and two forced fumbles, one by linebacker Roquan Smith – disrupted the Raiders’ rhythm. Pressure from the defensive line, especially a sack by Aidan Hutchinson, also forced hurried throws that led to turnovers.
What does the next schedule look like for both teams?
The Bears head to Minnesota to test their run game against a solid Vikings defense, while the Raiders host the Kansas City Chiefs, a matchup that could expose both teams’ weaknesses and strengths heading into the mid‑season stretch.
