Bears win 25-24 thriller over Raiders as Josh Blackwell blocks would-be winning field goal

LAS VEGAS — The Bears pulled off a stunning win Sunday against the Raiders as they blocked kicker Daniel Carlson’s would-be winning field goal in the final minute to escape 25-24 at Allegiant Stadium.

Carlson was kicking from the left hash with 38 seconds left when cornerback Josh Blackwell sprinted in to deflect it and send the Bears into their bye week 2-2. Their next game is Oct. 13 at the Commanders.

After trailing most of the game, the Bears pulled ahead 25-24 on running back D’Andre Swift’s touchdown run with 1:34 left. Their comeback nearly unraveled, though, on special teams and defense.

The Bears allowed return man Dylan Laube to get to the Raiders’ 42-yard line on the ensuing kickoff, and quarterback Geno Smith quickly got his team into field goal range with three consecutive completions.

Bears quarterback Caleb Williams struggled to get in rhythm against the Raiders’ pass rush. Star defensive end Maxx Crosby alone was overwhelming and had an interception, a forced fumble and three tackles for loss, but the defensive front as a whole was all over Williams throughout the game.

He finished 22-for-37 for 212 yards with a touchdown and an interception for a 73.3 passer rating, but got the victory.

The Bears played without five starters: defensive tackle Grady Jarrett (knee), right tackle Darnell Wright (elbow), tight end Colston Loveland (hip), nickel cornerback Kyler Gordon (hamstring) and linebacker T.J. Edwards (hamstring).

Here were the Bears’ inactives:

QB Case Keenum
RT Darnell Wright (elbow)
TE Colston Loveland (hip)

DT Grady Jarrett (knee)
DT Chris Williams
LB T.J. Edwards (hamstring)
CB Kyler Gordon (hamstring)