Rams and Kyren Williams withstood the pressure as Caleb Williams got a wild 42 yard field goal
A frozen night with everything at stake
Heavy snow transformed Soldier Field into a slick and unpredictable stage as the Los Angeles Rams edged the Chicago Bears 20,17 in overtime in the NFC Divisional round. According to NFL broadcast coverage, weather conditions affected visibility, footing and ball control from the opening drive, forcing both teams to simplify play calling and lean on discipline rather than explosiveness.
The win sends Los Angeles into the NFC Championship Game, while Chicago’s season ended in front of a home playoff crowd for the first time in more than a decade.
Ground control keeps los angeles steady
With passing made difficult by the snow, the Rams leaned heavily on their rushing attack. Running back Kyren Williams carried the offensive load, finishing with 87 rushing yards and two touchdowns. According to official NFL game statistics, his production helped Los Angeles sustain long drives and manage the clock during key stretches of the game.
While the Rams offense did not dominate, its ability to avoid critical mistakes early kept pressure on Chicago throughout the night.
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A debut filled with promise and lessons
Bears quarterback Caleb Williams showed both composure and inexperience in his first playoff appearance. He threw for 257 yards and two touchdowns, displaying arm strength and mobility despite constant pressure. His most dramatic play came late in the fourth quarter when he connected with tight end Cole Kmet for a 14 yard touchdown on fourth down to tie the game.
The NFL highlighted the moment on X, writing, “NO WAY. CALEB WILLIAMS HEAVES IT ON 4TH DOWN.”
NO WAY. CALEB WILLIAMS HEAVES IT ON 4TH DOWN.
— NFL (@NFL) January 19, 2026
LARvsCHI on NBC
Stream on @NFLPlus + Peacock pic.twitter.com/JJymsDhen2
However, Williams also threw three interceptions, turnovers that halted momentum and ultimately proved costly in a game decided by narrow margins. According to analysis from the NFL broadcast team, the mistakes reflected the risk of aggressive decision making under playoff pressure rather than a lack of ability.
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One kick ends it in overtime
After regulation ended tied, the game moved into overtime with both teams prioritizing field position and ball security. Drives stalled as fatigue and weather took their toll.
The Rams eventually advanced deep enough into Bears territory to attempt a game winning kick. Kicker Harrison Mevis converted a 42 yard field goal, sealing the victory and quieting the Chicago crowd. According to the NFL’s official play by play log, it was the only score of the overtime period.
Los Angeles will now face the Seattle Seahawks with a Super Bowl berth at stake.
A loss that still hints at a turning point
For Chicago, the defeat marked the end of its first home playoff appearance since 2010. While the loss was painful, the season offered signs of long term progress.
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According to league analysts and postgame commentary, first year head coach Ben Johnson and his rookie quarterback have given the franchise a foundation to build on. Despite the snowy heartbreak, the Bears leave the postseason with renewed optimism and a clearer sense of direction.
Sources: NFL broadcast coverage, official NFL statistics, NFL X account
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