Seahawks’ Playoff Hopes Hang by a Thread—A Shocking Late Twist Changes Everything Against the Bears!

The Seattle Seahawks made a pivotal step toward reviving their playoff aspirations, edging out the Chicago Bears 6-3 in a gritty Thursday night showdown. While the win was far from glamorous, it was enough to keep Seattle’s postseason dreams alive, pending outcomes elsewhere in the NFC.

With the victory, the Seahawks (9-7) snapped a two-game skid and now shift their focus to the final week of the regular season. Meanwhile, the Bears (4-12) extended their losing streak to 10 games, further deepening their struggles in an already challenging season.

Defense Dominates in a Low-Scoring Battle

The game’s defining moment came in the final minute when Seahawks cornerback Riq Woolen intercepted Bears quarterback Caleb Williams’ pass. The turnover sealed the win for Seattle and ended Williams’ record-setting streak of 353 consecutive passes without an interception.

“We’re in the mode of controlling what we can control,” Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald said after the game. “We know what’s coming next week. We’re going to spend this weekend getting our minds, bodies, and spirits right to play a game. We’re praying that it’s for the division championship.”

Seattle’s defense was relentless, sacking Williams seven times. Leonard Williams led the charge with two sacks, helping stifle a Bears offense that managed just 179 total yards and converted only five of 15 third-down attempts.

Seahawks’ Offense Does Just Enough

Quarterback Geno Smith delivered a steady, if unspectacular, performance, completing 17 of 23 passes for 160 yards. While the Seahawks’ offense struggled to find the end zone, kicker Jason Myers provided all the points Seattle needed with field goals of 27 and 50 yards.

“We’re trying to control the controllables and let the other things fall into place as they will,” Smith said. “We’re going into this last week with the same mindset no matter what.”

Seattle’s running game, led by Zach Charbonnet with 57 yards, offered enough balance to keep the Bears’ defense honest. Tight end Noah Fant contributed 43 receiving yards, providing a reliable outlet for Smith throughout the game.

Bears’ Offensive Woes Continue

For the Bears, offensive struggles were once again the story of the night. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams completed 16 of 28 passes for just 122 yards, a sharp drop from his 334-yard, two-touchdown performance against the NFC-leading Detroit Lions the previous week.

Chicago’s offensive line woes persisted, allowing Williams to be sacked seven times. This season, the Bears have given up 67 sacks, breaking the franchise’s previous single-season record of 66 set in 2004.

“Frustrating, annoyed, but learning,” Williams said of the experience. “I definitely think this is going to be good for me. I’m excited about this last game and excited about the future.”

Playoff Scenarios for Seattle

The Seahawks’ postseason hopes hinge on several factors. To secure a playoff berth, Seattle needs the Los Angeles Rams to lose to the Arizona Cardinals on Saturday, setting up a must-win showdown against the Rams in Week 18.

“Honestly, we shouldn’t be in this position,” Smith admitted. “That’s the main thing—understanding that we’ve got to control our destiny when we can. But yeah, I’m going to be a big Kyler Murray fan on Saturday.”

Chicago’s Season Hits New Lows

The Bears’ struggles under interim head coach Thomas Brown continue. Since replacing Matt Eberflus midseason, Chicago has gone winless in four games. The frustration boiled over late in Thursday’s game, with fans audibly chanting, “Sell the team!”

Despite the defensive unit’s strong effort, including holding Seattle to two field goals, the Bears’ offense couldn’t capitalize. Tight end Cole Kmet expressed frustration with the team’s lack of execution.

“I think it was all us, honestly,” Kmet said. “There was a lot we didn’t do well enough, and that’s been the theme of the year offensively. We’ve got to find ways to be better.”

Key Injuries Impact Both Teams

Seattle’s injury troubles continued, with running back Kenneth Walker III placed on injured reserve before the game due to an ankle injury. Walker, who had also dealt with calf and oblique issues earlier in the season, missed four games over the past month.

Cornerback Josh Jobe suffered a knee injury during the game, adding to the Seahawks’ growing list of banged-up players.

Looking Ahead

For Seattle, the focus shifts to preparation for a critical regular-season finale. With playoff hopes still alive, the Seahawks will be monitoring the Cardinals-Rams matchup closely.

For Chicago, the season’s conclusion can’t come soon enough. The team will aim to salvage some pride in their final game while setting their sights on rebuilding for the future.