Bears' Jake Moody reflects on debut win: "It's a pretty cool series of events."

The Chicago Bears secured a dramatic victory over the Washington Commanders with a last-second field goal by rookie kicker Jake Moody, elevating him from the practice squad just hours before the game.

Why it matters: This win marks a pivotal moment for the Bears, showcasing resilience and adaptability in a season that has been challenging.

• Moody's performance not only helped the Bears clinch their first victory of the season but also demonstrated the depth of talent within their roster.
• The Bears relied on a backup kicker due to Cairo Santos’ thigh injury, illustrating the unpredictable nature of NFL rosters.

What’s new: Jake Moody kicked a 38-yard field goal as time expired to secure a 25-24 victory.

• In his debut, Moody went 4-for-5 on field goals under difficult weather conditions, including successful attempts from 47, 48, and 41 yards.
• His game-winning kick capped off a comeback for the Bears, who trailed late in the game.

By the numbers: D'Andre Swift was instrumental in driving the Bears' offense, amassing 175 yards from scrimmage and scoring a touchdown.

• Swift’s significant contribution helped set up Moody's opportunity to win the game.
• DJ Moore added three catches for 42 yards despite leaving the game briefly for a precautionary medical evaluation.

Yes, but: The game was marred by mistakes from both teams, particularly from Washington's quarterback Jayden Daniels.

• A crucial fumble by Daniels led to the Bears' game-winning drive, highlighting the importance of ball security in tight contests.
• Despite a touchdown catch from Zach Ertz, the Commanders could not maintain their lead down the stretch.

What to watch: The Bears decision to elevate Moody could signal a shift in their kicking strategy moving forward.

• Coach Ben Johnson expressed confidence in Moody's abilities, suggesting that his continued success might influence how the team approaches future games.
• With Santos dealing with injury, the Bears may need to monitor his recovery closely while considering Moody's performance.

The bottom line: Jake Moody's heroics provided a much-needed lift for the Bears, reinforcing the idea that every player on the roster can make a difference when called upon.

• “It’s a pretty cool series of events,” Moody remarked after the game, indicating his surprise and excitement at being thrust into such a critical role so quickly.
• As the season progresses, the Bears will look to capitalize on this momentum, bolstered by the contributions of their backup players.