In a high-scoring affair, the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans traded blows before the Bears ultimately emerged victorious, 31-28. Quarterback C.J. Stroud and wide receiver Nico Collins were instrumental in Chicago's success, connecting for a crucial touchdown that proved to be the game-winner.
In a thrilling offensive showcase, the Chicago Bears narrowly defeated the Houston Texans 31-28, with quarterback C.J. Stroud and wide receiver Nico Collins leading the charge.
Stroud, continuing his impressive start to the season, threw for 260 yards and a touchdown. His connection with Collins proved pivotal, as the latter hauled in eight passes for 120 yards, including the game-winning score.
Bears vs. Texans: Nico Collins, C.J. Stroud Lead Offensive Charge
The Texans, led by quarterback Kyle Allen, kept pace with the Bears offense. Allen threw for 258 yards and two touchdowns, connecting with wide receiver Brandin Cooks for both scores.
The game opened with a flurry of points, as the two teams combined for 21 points in the first quarter. The Texans struck first with a 45-yard field goal by Ka'imi Fairbairn, but the Bears responded with a 75-yard touchdown drive capped off by a 15-yard pass from Stroud to Collins.
The Texans regained the lead early in the second quarter on a 5-yard touchdown catch by Cooks. However, the Bears came right back with a 40-yard field goal by Cairo Santos.
With the score tied at 10-10 heading into halftime, the third quarter was equally entertaining. The Texans kicked another field goal to take a 13-10 lead, but the Bears answered with a 10-yard touchdown run by running back Khalil Herbert.
The Texans knotted the score at 20-20 with a 22-yard touchdown pass from Allen to Cooks, but the Bears took the lead for good on a 25-yard field goal by Santos.
The Texans had an opportunity to tie the game late in the fourth quarter, but a 55-yard field goal attempt by Fairbairn sailed wide right. The Bears ran out the clock to secure the victory.
In addition to Stroud and Collins, the Bears' offense also received strong performances from Herbert (76 rushing yards) and wide receiver Darnell Mooney (five catches, 78 yards).
For the Texans, Allen was complemented by running back Dameon Pierce (71 rushing yards) and wide receiver Nico Collins (five catches, 60 yards).
With the win, the Bears improved to 3-1 on the season, while the Texans dropped to 0-3-1. The Bears will return to action next week against the New York Giants, while the Texans will host the Jacksonville Jaguars.
