The storied rivalry between the Minnesota Vikings and the Chicago Bears added two compelling chapters during the 2024 NFL season. Both matchups showcased remarkable athleticism, strategic prowess, and individual performances that significantly influenced the outcomes.
Week 12: Overtime Thriller at Soldier Field
On November 24, 2024, the Vikings edged the Bears in a dramatic 30-27 overtime victory at Soldier Field. This game was a testament to the competitive spirit inherent in NFC North clashes.
Quarterback Performances
- Sam Darnold (Vikings): Darnold exhibited resilience, completing 24 of 40 passes for 330 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. His poise under pressure was evident, particularly during the game-tying drive in the fourth quarter. Reuters
- Caleb Williams (Bears): The rookie quarterback demonstrated potential, completing 18 of 31 passes for 340 yards and two touchdowns. Despite the loss, Williams showcased his ability to lead the offense effectively. Reuters
Receiving Corps
- Jordan Addison (Vikings): Addison had a career-high performance with eight receptions totaling 162 yards and a touchdown. His ability to exploit defensive gaps was instrumental in the Vikings’ offensive success. Daily Norseman
- DJ Moore (Bears): Moore contributed significantly with seven catches for 120 yards, including a crucial 27-yard reception that set up the game-tying field goal in regulation. Reuters
Rushing Attack
- Aaron Jones (Vikings): Jones provided balance to the Vikings’ offense, rushing for 84 yards and a touchdown. His versatility was on display, contributing both in the running game and as a receiving option. Daily Norseman
- Khalil Herbert (Bears): Herbert managed 65 rushing yards on 15 carries, maintaining a steady ground presence for Chicago.
Defensive Highlights
- Jonathan Greenard (Vikings): Greenard was a disruptive force, recording two sacks and four tackles for loss, earning a commendable PFF grade of 89.5. Daily Norseman
- Harrison Smith (Vikings): The veteran safety led the team with 11 tackles, showcasing his reliability in the secondary. Daily Norseman
- Roquan Smith (Bears): Smith anchored the Bears’ defense with 10 tackles and a sack, demonstrating his prowess as a defensive leader.
Week 15: Vikings Dominate at Home
The rematch on December 16, 2024, saw the Vikings secure a convincing 30-12 victory over the Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium, extending their winning streak and solidifying their position atop the NFC North.
Quarterback Play
- Sam Darnold (Vikings): Darnold maintained efficiency, completing 24 of 40 passes for 231 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. His management of the game facilitated sustained offensive drives. Reuters
- Caleb Williams (Bears): Williams faced challenges against a formidable Vikings defense, completing 18 of 31 passes for 191 yards and one touchdown. Despite the pressure, he continued to exhibit potential as a developing quarterback. Reuters
Receiving Highlights
- Justin Jefferson (Vikings): Jefferson recorded seven receptions for 73 yards and a touchdown, reaffirming his status as a premier receiver in the league. Reuters
- Keenan Allen (Bears): Allen contributed with five catches for 70 yards and a touchdown, providing a reliable target for Williams.
Ground Game
- Aaron Jones (Vikings): Jones accumulated 106 yards from scrimmage, including a 1-yard rushing touchdown, showcasing his dual-threat capability. Reuters
- Cam Akers (Vikings): Akers added depth to the rushing attack with 45 yards on 10 carries, complementing Jones effectively.
Defensive Standouts
- Jonathan Greenard (Vikings): Continuing his impressive form, Greenard forced a fumble that was recovered by linebacker Blake Cashman, contributing to the Vikings’ defensive dominance. Reuters
- Blake Cashman (Vikings): Cashman not only recovered a fumble but also recorded eight tackles, playing a pivotal role in stifling the Bears’ offensive efforts. Daily Norseman
- Josh Metellus (Vikings): Metellus led the team with 10 tackles, demonstrating exceptional field awareness and tackling proficiency. Daily Norseman
Special Teams Contributions
- Will Reichard (Vikings): Reichard was perfect in his kicking duties, adding three field goals that contributed significantly to the Vikings’ scoring tally. Reuters
- Cairo Santos (Bears): Santos accounted for all of Chicago’s points with four field goals, highlighting the Bears’ struggles to convert drives into touchdowns.
Season Implications
The Vikings’ sweep of the season series against the Bears not only extended Chicago’s losing streak to eight games but also propelled Minnesota to a 12-2 record, reinforcing their aspirations for a deep