Introduction
When the Los Angeles Rams faced off against the Chicago Bears, expectations were high on both sides. This wasn’t just a routine matchup—it was a battle of strategy, depth, and individual grit. With fans from both camps eager to see how their squads stacked up, the game delivered a full menu of moments worth breaking down. From quarterback decisions to critical third-down stops, this contest gave analysts plenty to chew on.
This blog post dives into the full statistical narrative of the game—who performed, who stepped up, and where each team showed their cards. Let’s explore how this game unfolded from beginning to end through key player metrics and tactical plays.
The Complete Narrative
Played under clear skies at Soldier Field, the game had moments of tight defense, surprise gains, and clutch performances. Chicago’s defensive line did more than just hold the line—they disrupted timing, forcing the Rams into decisions that shaped the flow of the contest. The Rams, meanwhile, relied on the one-two punch of Kyren Williams and Matthew Stafford to keep the offense moving. But with drops, missed reads, and special teams errors creeping in, consistency remained elusive.
The Bears, on the other hand, utilized a more balanced approach. D’Andre Swift’s ability to find lanes behind a reorganized offensive line brought rhythm. Their rookie punter, Tory Taylor, quietly shifted field position battle after battle. And on the defensive end, Jaquan Brisker played with high motor and awareness.
The Two Statistics That Determined the Outcome of the Match
Two key stats dictated the flow and eventual outcome:
- Third Down Efficiency
- Rams: 3/12
- Bears: 7/14
The Bears converted when it counted. The Rams’ offense failed to sustain drives, forcing early punts.
- Red Zone Conversion Rate
- Rams: 1/3
- Bears: 3/4
Capitalizing on short fields, the Bears came away with touchdowns where the Rams settled for less.
These numbers weren’t just side notes—they were turning points. Every shortcoming in these metrics translated into clock control and scoring opportunities.
Summary Table of Key Statistics
Category | Rams | Bears |
---|---|---|
Total Yards | 321 | 344 |
Passing Yards | 226 | 218 |
Rushing Yards | 95 | 126 |
First Downs | 17 | 20 |
Third Down Conversions | 3/12 | 7/14 |
Turnovers | 2 | 1 |
Time of Possession | 27:40 | 32:20 |
This table offers a snapshot of how both teams operated. The Bears held slight advantages in most categories but used those incremental wins to create larger strategic benefits.
Comparison of Quarterbacks: Veteran Experience vs. Young Talent
Matthew Stafford (Rams)
- Completions/Attempts: 21/33
- Yards: 226
- Touchdowns: 1
- Interceptions: 1
- Sacks Taken: 3
Stafford started strong but was often under pressure. His chemistry with Cooper Kupp was evident, but when forced to his second and third reads, he lacked rhythm. His interception in the third quarter stopped a promising drive and gave the Bears control.
Justin Fields (Bears)
- Completions/Attempts: 18/27
- Yards: 218
- Touchdowns: 2
- Interceptions: 0
- Rushing Yards: 47
Fields managed the game efficiently. He made good use of play-action and found quick completions to keep the chains moving. His mobility also extended plays and gave Chicago the edge on third downs.
The D’Andre Swift Program
D’Andre Swift brought stability to the Bears’ offense.
- Carries: 19
- Rushing Yards: 89
- Touchdowns: 1
- Receptions: 3
- Receiving Yards: 22
Swift’s presence gave the Bears a steady ground game. He rarely lost yardage and consistently gained 4+ yards per carry. In short-yardage situations, he delivered. On his touchdown run late in the second quarter, he bounced outside after a failed interior block and powered in from eight yards.
Swift also contributed in pass protection, picking up blitzes and giving Fields time.
Kyren Williams Maintains His Scoring Momentum
Despite the Rams’ struggles, Kyren Williams continued to be their most reliable asset.
- Carries: 14
- Rushing Yards: 67
- Touchdowns: 1
- Receptions: 4
- Receiving Yards: 33
Williams broke a 21-yard run in the second quarter and added a receiving first down on a screen pass. He found pay dirt in the red zone early in the third, giving the Rams brief hope. But after that drive, the Bears adjusted and closed his lanes.
His effort and vision remain a bright spot for LA’s offense moving forward.
The Impactful Defensive Player: Jaquan Brisker
Brisker’s stat line doesn’t tell the whole story—but his impact was clear.
- Tackles: 9
- Pass Breakups: 2
- Forced Fumbles: 1
- Tackles for Loss: 1
Brisker was everywhere. Whether covering tight ends, stopping screen plays, or crashing the line of scrimmage, his timing was precise. He forced a fumble on a Stafford rollout that the Bears recovered, shifting momentum late in the third quarter.
In coverage, he stayed tight on Higbee and delivered clean hits without drawing flags. A performance that lifted the whole defense.
The Unrecognized Champion: Tory Taylor’s Revolutionary Punting Techniques
In a game of margins, Tory Taylor changed field position like a chess grandmaster.
- Punts: 6
- Average Distance: 51.2 yards
- Inside the 20: 4
- Longest Punt: 61 yards
The rookie from Iowa flipped the field multiple times. One punt landed at the Rams’ 3-yard line with minimal return. His hang time allowed gunners to get in position and prevent runbacks. While punters rarely make headlines, Taylor gave Chicago a hidden advantage all game.
Reasons the Rams Failed to Leverage Their Advantages
Despite strong showings from Williams and Kupp, the Rams could not capitalize.
- Drive-killing penalties – False starts and holding calls disrupted rhythm.
- Inconsistent blocking – The Bears’ defensive front overwhelmed LA’s guards on passing downs.
- Missed tackles on defense – Chicago turned short throws into big gains.
- Ineffective play-calling in the red zone – The Rams stalled inside the 20 too often.
Execution in critical moments was the core problem. They moved the ball but couldn’t finish.
Analysis of Player Engagement Unveils Team Tactics
The Rams’ play distribution leaned heavily on veterans:
- Target Leaders: Cooper Kupp (9), Puka Nacua (6), Tyler Higbee (4)
- Rush Attempts: Williams (14), Freeman (3), Stafford (1)
Chicago distributed the load more broadly:
- Targets: DJ Moore (6), Cole Kmet (5), Mooney (4)
- Rushes: Swift (19), Herbert (6), Fields (5)
Chicago’s offense used motion, jet sweeps, and quick reads to keep defenders guessing. The Rams stayed more static, hoping their stars would create.
The Effect of Injuries on the Game
The Rams lost right tackle Rob Havenstein in the first quarter, which forced a backup into the lineup and led to immediate protection issues. The Bears lost WR Chase Claypool mid-game, but his replacement, rookie Tyler Scott, caught two clutch passes. Overall, Chicago absorbed their injuries better due to depth and flexibility in play design.
Future Prospects
For the Rams
- Offensive line upgrades must be prioritized.
- Kyren Williams deserves more involvement in the passing game.
- Stafford’s decision-making will need to tighten up for upcoming opponents.
For the Bears
- Swift’s integration opens new playbook options.
- The defense continues to improve in situational football.
- Punting edge from Tory Taylor remains an under-the-radar weapon in tight games.
If both teams build on their strengths, they can remain competitive in their respective divisions. But execution—not potential—will define their seasons.
Conclusion
The Rams vs Bears matchup was a showcase of how small moments can shift a game. While the Rams flashed with individual talent, the Bears performed better as a unit. Whether it was a third-down run, a forced turnover, or a 61-yard punt, Chicago made the right moves at the right times. Statistics tell one side of the story. But when you see how every snap contributed to the final whistle, the numbers gain meaning. Both teams walk away with lessons—but only the Bears walk away with the win.
FAQS
1. Who had more total yards in the Rams vs Bears game?
The Bears slightly outgained the Rams with 344 total yards to 321.
2. How did Justin Fields perform against the Rams?
Fields passed for 218 yards and 2 touchdowns, adding 47 rushing yards.
3. What were the standout stats for Matthew Stafford?
Stafford threw for 226 yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception.
4. Which running back led the game in rushing yards?
D’Andre Swift led with 89 rushing yards and 1 touchdown.
5. What impact did Tory Taylor have on special teams?
Taylor pinned the Rams inside the 20-yard line four times with a 51.2-yard average per punt.