The Chicago Bears (6-3) face the Minnesota Vikings (4-5) on November 12, 2025, in a critical NFC North matchup. This game offers the Bears a chance to assert themselves as legitimate playoff contenders, especially after suffering a narrow defeat to the Vikings earlier in the season. A convincing victory would bolster their standing and earn them respect across the league.
Quarterback Caleb Williams is at the center of this narrative. In their first encounter, Williams outperformed JJ McCarthy for most of the game, but McCarthy’s impressive fourth quarter resulted in a 27-24 win for the Vikings. Since that game, Williams has emerged as one of the top young quarterbacks in the NFL. He enters Week 11 with 2,136 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. In contrast, McCarthy has thrown for 692 yards, five touchdowns, and six interceptions across four games.
Despite Williams’ impressive statistics this season, the Vikings’ defense poses a significant challenge. Minnesota ranks ninth in the league, allowing an average of 191.7 passing yards per game and 14th in passing touchdowns allowed, averaging 1.6 per game. They also pressure the quarterback effectively, recording an average of 2.7 sacks per game, placing them 12th in the NFL.
On the other hand, the Bears struggle defensively, ranking 26th in passing yards allowed, giving up an average of 240.3 yards per game, and 29th in passing touchdowns allowed with an average of 2.2 per game. This disparity in defensive performance could give McCarthy an edge, but Williams has demonstrated resilience and adaptability throughout the season.
The evolution of Caleb Williams since the beginning of the season cannot be overstated. In their first meeting, he threw for 210 yards and a single interception but failed to make a significant impact. Now, he is viewed as a game-changer, capable of turning the tide regardless of the circumstances on the field.
The upcoming game presents challenges for both teams. Brian Flores, the Vikings’ defensive coordinator, will aim to exploit the Bears’ weaknesses, while Chicago’s offensive coordinator Ben Johnson must devise a plan to counteract the Vikings’ defensive schemes.
As anticipation builds for this matchup, many expect that Williams will rise to the occasion. Analysts predict he will throw for over 250 yards and secure at least three touchdowns, leading the Bears to a two-score victory. The final score is projected to be 27-13 in favor of Chicago, marking a significant turnaround for a team eager for redemption.
This Week 11 clash not only represents a chance for the Bears to avenge their earlier loss but also highlights the ongoing development of young talent in the league. The outcome will likely impact the playoff landscape in the NFC North and set the stage for the remainder of the season.
