In a game devoid of offensive fireworks, the Seattle Seahawks secured a 6-3 victory over the Chicago Bears in the final “Thursday Night Football” matchup of the season. It was the lowest-scoring game of the year, marked by stout defensive efforts and struggling offenses.
Seattle’s win keeps their faint playoff hopes alive, while Chicago’s season spirals further into despair. Here’s a detailed look at the winners and losers from the Week 17 clash.
Winners
Seahawks’ Defense
Seattle’s defense delivered a dominant performance, stifling the Bears’ offense at every turn. The unit recorded seven sacks on rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and limited Chicago to 179 total yards and three points.
Defensive lineman Leonard Williams was a standout, tallying five tackles, two sacks, three tackles for loss, and four quarterback hits. Cornerback Riq Woolen added the finishing touch with a game-sealing interception.
Jason Myers
In a game without touchdowns, Seahawks kicker Jason Myers made the difference. He connected on both field goal attempts, including a 50-yarder just before halftime that proved to be the game-winner.
Zach Charbonnet
Running back Zach Charbonnet provided a rare bright spot for Seattle’s offense. The reserve rusher accumulated 76 yards from scrimmage, showcasing his potential amid a sluggish offensive outing.
NFL Streaming Success
The NFL continued to excel in streaming partnerships, wrapping up another strong season of “Thursday Night Football” on Amazon Prime. Fresh off record-breaking streams on Christmas Day, the league showcased its reach in the digital era.
Losers
Chicago Bears
The Bears’ nightmare season continued as they dropped their 10th straight game. Their current losing streak is tied with the New York Giants for the longest active streak in the league, and their last win came on October 13.
Bears’ Passing Game
Rookie Caleb Williams endured another rough outing, throwing for just 122 yards and one interception. Chicago’s offense faced the wrath of frustrated fans at Soldier Field, who booed multiple times, including after a short third-and-24 completion.
Williams was sacked seven times, bringing his season total to 67—close to David Carr’s record of 76 sacks in a single season. Chicago’s offensive identity and cohesion remain glaring issues.
Offensive Struggles
This game was a nightmare for anyone hoping for touchdowns. Both teams combined for just nine points, and neither scored after halftime. Chicago managed 101 yards in the first half and only 78 in the second.
Seattle fared slightly better but still gained only 87 yards after halftime. The teams combined for a staggering 13 punts in a game that lacked offensive rhythm.
Bears Fans
In their final home game of the season, Bears fans braved the rain at Soldier Field only to witness another dismal performance. With one game remaining in Green Bay, the Bears risk closing out the season with an 11-game losing streak.
Kenneth Walker Fantasy Owners
Seattle’s injury report affected more than just their roster. Fantasy football players felt the sting when star running back Kenneth Walker was placed on injured reserve before the game. His absence during the playoffs or championship rounds left fantasy managers scrambling.
Thursday night’s game epitomized a defensive slugfest, with the Seahawks edging the Bears in a low-scoring battle. Both teams’ offensive struggles highlighted the work needed in the offseason. For now, Seattle clings to slim playoff hopes, while Chicago braces for a long rebuild.
