Vikings Edge Bears 27-24 in Thrilling Season Opener

McCarthy Leads Minnesota to Victory in First Career Start

The Minnesota Vikings kicked off the 2025 NFL season with a nail-biting 27-24 victory over the Chicago Bears on Monday night, giving rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy his first professional win in what many expect to be a breakthrough season for both teams.

Two Teams with Championship Dreams

The Vikings entered 2025 with sky-high expectations, featuring one of the NFL's most complete rosters. Led by superstar wide receiver Justin Jefferson and a defense that led the league in turnovers last season, Minnesota made significant upgrades to their offensive line by adding center Ryan Kelly and guard Will Fries from Indianapolis. Meanwhile, the Bears brought in new head coach Ben Johnson, who built the NFL's most productive offense in Detroit over the past three seasons, hoping to unlock the potential of second-year quarterback Caleb Williams.

First Quarter: Bears Strike First

Chicago got off to a hot start in the opening quarter, with Williams showing the improved pocket presence that many hoped would come with better offensive line protection. The Bears methodically drove down the field, with Williams completing passes to DJ Moore and Rome Odunze before scrambling nine yards for the game's first touchdown. The extra point from Cairo Santos gave Chicago a 7-0 lead.

McCarthy and the Vikings struggled to find their rhythm early, with the young quarterback taking his first NFL sack and the offense managing just one first down in their opening drives.

Second Quarter: Field Goals and Big Plays

The second quarter saw both teams settle for field goals early, with Will Reichard connecting from 31 yards to put Minnesota on the board at 7-3. The Bears responded with sustained drives, as Williams found his favorite targets in Moore and Odunze. Santos added a 42-yard field goal to extend Chicago's lead to 10-3.

In a dramatic finish to the half, McCarthy showed his potential by connecting with Jalen Nailor for a 28-yard gain down the sideline. Reichard nailed a 59-yard field goal as time expired, cutting the deficit to 10-6 at halftime.

Third Quarter: Defense Creates Points

The third quarter belonged to Chicago's defense. Cornerback Nahshon Wright intercepted McCarthy's pass intended for Jefferson and returned it 74 yards for a touchdown, extending the Bears' lead to 17-6. The pick-six highlighted the growing pains expected from a rookie quarterback facing NFL defenses for the first time.

However, the Bears couldn't capitalize further, managing only a missed 50-yard field goal attempt by Santos to end the quarter.

Fourth Quarter: McCarthy's Comeback

The final quarter showcased why the Vikings believe McCarthy can lead them to a championship. The rookie quarterback engineered two touchdown drives, first finding Jefferson for a 13-yard touchdown pass, then connecting with veteran running back Aaron Jones for a spectacular 27-yard touchdown reception. Jones finished with 67 total yards and the crucial score.

McCarthy capped off his comeback with a 14-yard rushing touchdown, showing the dual-threat ability that made him attractive to Minnesota. Despite a late Bears touchdown pass from Williams to Odunze, the Vikings held on for the 27-24 victory.

Looking Ahead

This victory validates the Vikings' belief that McCarthy can succeed in Kevin O'Connell's quarterback-friendly system. With 143 passing yards, two passing touchdowns, and a rushing score in his debut, McCarthy showed poise beyond his years when it mattered most.

For Chicago, the loss stings but reveals the potential of Johnson's offensive system. Williams threw for over 300 yards and showed improved decision-making with better protection.

Both teams will look to build on this performance as they continue their NFC North campaigns in Week 2.