The Los Angeles Rams secured a hard-fought 20-17 overtime victory against the Chicago Bears in a thrilling NFC Divisional Round playoff game. This dramatic win propels the Rams into the NFC Championship, keeping their Super Bowl hopes alive. The contest, held in frigid Chicago conditions, captivated fans with incredible late-game heroics and a decisive overtime sequence. Rams kicker Harrison Mevis sealed the triumph with a 42-yard field goal, setting the stage for a highly anticipated clash against the Seattle Seahawks next Sunday.
A Gritty Divisional Showdown in the Windy City
On a cold and snowy Sunday night, January 18, 2026, the stakes were incredibly high in Chicago. The Los Angeles Rams and Chicago Bears faced off in a pivotal NFC Divisional Playoff game. This matchup pitted the seasoned veteran Matthew Stafford against the rising star Caleb Williams. Both teams brought impressive records and playoff aspirations into the contest, promising a battle to remember.
The game unfolded as a true defensive struggle in challenging minus-7 Celsius conditions. The Rams, boasting a strong 14-5 record, aimed to return to the NFC Championship for the first time since their victorious 2021 Super Bowl campaign. Meanwhile, the Bears, under first-year coach Ben Johnson, had orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, finishing 12-7 and winning the NFC North after a last-place finish the previous year. Their season had been marked by a staggering seven fourth-quarter comeback wins, earning them the nickname “Cardiac Bears.”
Caleb Williams’ Late-Game Magic Forces Overtime
As the clock wound down in regulation, the Rams held a precarious 17-10 lead. With less than a minute remaining, the Bears’ hopes seemed dim. However, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams, unfazed by the pressure, delivered a truly extraordinary play. Facing a critical fourth-and-4 from the Rams’ 14-yard line with just 18 seconds left, Williams escaped pressure. He then unleashed a remarkable 51.2-yard pass, according to NFL’s Next Gen Stats. This incredible throw connected with tight end Cole Kmet for a game-tying touchdown.
Bears coach Ben Johnson, faced with a monumental decision, opted for the extra point to force overtime. He chose not to go for a go-ahead two-point conversion. This clutch play by Williams, reminiscent of the Bears’ comeback reputation, sent the game into an extra period. It also left a silent, stunned home crowd in disbelief.
Overtime Drama: Interception Leads to Game-Winning Kick
The coin toss in overtime went to the Bears, who surprisingly chose to defer. This strategic decision gave the Rams the first possession. However, Los Angeles went three-and-out, forcing a punt after Blake Corum was stopped for a short gain. The ball then went back to Chicago at their own 16-yard line. Caleb Williams initially extended the Bears’ drive with a crucial 3-yard keeper on a fourth-and-1 near midfield.
Just two plays later, the momentum dramatically shifted. Rams safety Kam Curl intercepted Williams’ deep pass intended for DJ Moore. This critical turnover handed the Rams excellent field position. Seizing the opportunity, Matthew Stafford orchestrated a swift drive. He connected with Puka Nacua for a vital 16-yard gain, moving the Rams squarely into field-goal range. With the game on his foot, Harrison Mevis, affectionately known as the “Thiccer Kicker,” calmly split the uprights from 42 yards out. The kick secured the dramatic 20-17 victory for the Rams, igniting jubilation among his teammates.
Key Player Performances and Statistical Highlights
The hard-fought contest showcased several standout individual performances:
Matthew Stafford (Rams QB): Despite admitting he struggled to find a rhythm, Stafford completed 20 of 42 passes for 258 yards. He took four sacks and played through a potential sprained index finger. His post-game emphasis was clear: “playoff football is about winning the football game.” Stafford’s crucial completions in overtime set up the winning kick.
Kyren Williams (Rams RB): Williams was a key offensive force, rushing for 87 yards on 21 carries. He also scored two touchdowns, including a 5-yard run in the fourth quarter that gave the Rams their 17-10 lead.
Puka Nacua (Rams WR): Nacua contributed 56 receiving yards on 5 catches. He also made a critical 2-yard run on a fourth-and-5 play during a scoring drive, keeping the Rams’ possession alive. His 16-yard reception in overtime was essential.
Caleb Williams (Bears QB): The rookie quarterback finished 23 of 42 passes for 257 yards, throwing two touchdowns. However, he also had three crucial interceptions, including the game-altering pick in overtime. Despite the loss, Williams expressed excitement for the future, calling it a “good lesson learned.”
Harrison Mevis (Rams K): The hero of the night, Mevis converted the game-winning 42-yard field goal in overtime.
Kam Curl (Rams DB): Curl’s interception of Caleb Williams’ pass in overtime was arguably the defensive play of the game.
Omar Speights (Rams DB): Made a key fourth-quarter stop, breaking up Williams’ fourth-down pass at the 2-yard line.
D’Andre Swift (Bears RB): Contributed 76 rushing yards on 19 carries.
- Cole Kmet (Bears TE): Caught the dramatic 14-yard tying touchdown pass in regulation.
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Injuries noted during the game included Rams cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr. (shoulder) and Bears tight end Colston Loveland (concussion).
The Road Ahead: Rams Face Seahawks in NFC Championship
With this monumental victory, the Los Angeles Rams (14-5) now advance to the NFC Championship game. This marks their first appearance in the conference championship since their 2021 season, which culminated in a Super Bowl triumph. Their next challenge will be against their formidable NFC West rival, the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks earned their spot by decisively defeating the San Francisco 49ers 41-6. The upcoming NFC Championship game will take place in Seattle, a challenging road environment for the Rams, who split their regular season series with the Seahawks, with each team winning at home.
For the Chicago Bears (12-7), the dramatic loss brings an end to a season of remarkable growth and unexpected success. Under the guidance of first-year coach Ben Johnson, the team transformed from a last-place finisher to NFC North champions. Their numerous fourth-quarter comeback wins highlighted their resilience and fighting spirit. While the playoff exit is undoubtedly disappointing, the Bears have established a strong foundation and a promising future with Caleb Williams at the helm. This season serves as a testament to their potential in the seasons to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What were the key plays that led to the Rams’ overtime victory against the Bears?
The game featured several pivotal moments. In the final minute of regulation, Bears QB Caleb Williams threw an incredible 51.2-yard pass to Cole Kmet for a 14-yard touchdown, tying the game at 17-17 with just 18 seconds left. In overtime, after the Rams punted, Rams safety Kam Curl intercepted a deep pass from Williams, giving Los Angeles possession. Matthew Stafford then connected with Puka Nacua for a 16-yard gain, setting up Harrison Mevis’s game-winning 42-yard field goal.
Who will the Los Angeles Rams play in the NFC Championship game, and where will it be held?
The Los Angeles Rams will advance to face their NFC West rival, the Seattle Seahawks, in the NFC Championship game. The Seahawks secured their spot by defeating the San Francisco 49ers 41-6 in their Divisional Round matchup. The highly anticipated conference championship will be held next Sunday in Seattle, at the Seahawks’ home stadium. The two teams split their regular season series, with each team winning on their home turf.
Why was the Rams vs. Bears playoff game considered so dramatic?
The game’s drama stemmed from several factors. It was a cold, snowy playoff contest with high stakes, pitting a veteran quarterback against a promising rookie. The Bears, known for their “Cardiac Bears” reputation, mounted a stunning late-game comeback when Caleb Williams threw a remarkable tying touchdown with just 18 seconds left in regulation. This forced an intense overtime period. The deciding play in overtime was a critical interception followed by a game-winning field goal, capping a back-and-forth battle filled with clutch plays and high tension until the final snap.
Conclusion: A Playoff Classic and Future Prospects
The Rams’ 20-17 overtime victory over the Bears was more than just a win; it was a playoff classic defined by resilience, clutch performances, and dramatic turns. Matthew Stafford’s veteran leadership and Harrison Mevis’s game-winning kick ultimately propelled Los Angeles forward. They now face a formidable challenge in the NFC Championship against the Seattle Seahawks. This upcoming game promises another thrilling chapter in the NFL playoffs, with a trip to Super Bowl 60 on the line.
While the Bears’ season ended in heartbreak, their incredible turnaround under Ben Johnson and the promising future of Caleb Williams cannot be overstated. They proved themselves as legitimate contenders, and their journey this season will undoubtedly inspire future success. The NFL playoffs continue to deliver unforgettable moments, reminding fans why this sport captivates millions.
