Chicago, Illinois – The Los Angeles Rams survived a tense and dramatic overtime battle against the Chicago Bears, securing a 20–17 victory in the NFC Divisional Round and advancing to the NFC Championship Game for the first time since their Super Bowl-winning 2021 season.
Despite entering the game as the NFL’s top-ranked offence by DVOA, the Rams struggled for long stretches. However, their defence delivered when it mattered most, sealing the win in front of a stunned Soldier Field crowd.
Rams Defence Delivers in Crucial Moments
The Rams’ offence had one of its quietest outings of the season, managing just 174 total yards through three quarters, their lowest output in 2025. But the defence stood tall throughout the night.
Key Defensive Highlights:
Kam Curl intercepted Caleb Williams in overtime, setting up the game-winning drive
Cobie Durant recorded two interceptions, giving the Rams three takeaways
Chicago converted just 3 of 6 fourth-down attempts
A vital goal-line stop with just over three minutes left in regulation
According to ESPN Research, this marked the Rams’ most interceptions in a playoff game since 2001, when they picked off the Packers six times.
Game-Winning Kick Sends Rams Through
After Curl’s interception in overtime, the Rams moved into field goal range. Kicker Brett Maher calmly drilled a 42-yard field goal, ending the contest and punching Los Angeles’ ticket to the NFC title game.
While the performance was not polished, it was effective — and in the playoffs, that is all that matters.
Matthew Stafford: Quiet Night, Timely Drive
Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford endured a difficult evening under pressure from the Bears’ defence.
Stafford’s Performance at a Glance:
Sacked four times, his most this season
No passing touchdowns for the first time all year
Led a crucial fourth-quarter touchdown drive when the Rams needed it most
Chicago blitzed Stafford on 37% of his dropbacks, forcing him into several off-target throws and limiting play-action success (0-of-9).
Rams Make Playoff History Despite Offensive Struggles
Although the Rams stalled for much of the game, they still managed to set a rare playoff record.
Notable Team Stats:
First team in 25 postseasons to open a playoff game with a 14-play touchdown drive
Also completed another 14-play TD drive in the fourth quarter
Only the second team since 2022 to record multiple 14-play touchdown drives in a playoff game
Davante Adams Shut Down Early
One of the biggest surprises was the limited impact of Davante Adams.
No catches through three quarters
Finished with just 2 receptions for 24 yards
Only the second time in his NFL career he was held catchless for three quarters
Chicago’s defensive game plan clearly focused on neutralising the Rams’ star receiver.
Bears Show Fight Until the Final Play
Chicago refused to go quietly.
Trailing by seven late in the fourth quarter, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams delivered a moment of magic, finding Cole Kmet for a 14-yard touchdown with just 18 seconds remaining, forcing overtime.
However, the Bears’ joy was short-lived.
Caleb Williams Falters in Overtime
Williams’ heroic reputation took a hit in the biggest moment.
Williams’ Stat Line:
23 of 42 passing for 257 yards
2 touchdowns, 3 interceptions
Just 43% completion rate in the second half and overtime
His overtime interception — the third of the game — proved decisive.
This marked back-to-back games with multiple interceptions after going the entire regular season without one.
Bears’ Season Still a Major Step Forward
Despite the painful ending, the Bears’ season under first-year head coach Ben Johnson can be viewed as a success.
Chicago’s 2025 Achievements:
11 regular-season wins
First playoff victory in 15 years
Defeated the Green Bay Packers in the wild-card round
Strong development from key young players
Rookie tight end Colston Loveland also made history.
Rookie Record Broken by Colston Loveland
Loveland’s 18-yard catch late in the fourth quarter helped him break a long-standing playoff record.
193 receiving yards this postseason
Most by a rookie tight end since the 1970 AFL–NFL merger
Surpassed Sam LaPorta’s 2023 record
What’s Next: Rams vs Seahawks – Part III
The Rams now prepare for a familiar foe in the NFC Championship Game.
Season Series Recap:
Week 11: Rams won 21–19 at SoFi Stadium
Week 16: Seahawks won 38–37 in overtime in Seattle
With the series tied and emotions running high, the rubber match promises fireworks.
Final Word
It was not the Rams’ cleanest performance, but it was a resilient one. Their defence rose to the occasion, their kicker delivered under pressure, and their playoff journey continues.
For the Bears, heartbreak will sting — but the future in Chicago looks brighter than it has in years.
References:
ESPN Research
ESPN NFL Game Analysis
Associated Press (AP)
Official NFL Statistics
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