Bears’ Running Game Surges with 145 Yards in Crucial Win

UPDATE: The Chicago Bears’ running game exploded in a thrilling victory over the Washington Commanders on October 13, 2025, as they racked up a season-high 145 rushing yards and secured a dramatic win with a last-second field goal.

With the game hanging in the balance, Bears offensive coordinator Ben Johnson made a pivotal decision, placing his trust in running back D’Andre Swift. Following a fumbled handoff by the Commanders, Johnson called multiple running plays for Swift, who delivered with a crucial 15-yard run that effectively sealed the game. Kicker Jake Moody then nailed a 38-yard field goal as time expired, marking a significant moment for the Bears this season.

The Bears had not surpassed 100 rushing yards in their previous two games, and until this match, Swift’s best game had been just 63 yards this season. Swift finished the game with 108 yards on 14 carries, reflecting a renewed focus on foundational skills within the team’s running strategy.

Johnson emphasized the importance of fundamentals after the game, stating, “I take it personally because I spend more time on the run game than I do on the passing game.” This commitment to the run game is starting to pay off, as evidenced by five runs of ten yards or more during the game.

Looking ahead, the Bears’ upcoming schedule presents an opportunity to build on this momentum. They face defenses that rank in the bottom third against the run, including the New Orleans Saints, Baltimore Ravens, Cincinnati Bengals, New York Giants, and Minnesota Vikings.

Another factor contributing to the Bears’ success is the recent changes in their offensive line. After struggling with consistency early in the season, the Bears made a significant lineup change, replacing former left tackle Braxton Jones with Theo Benedet. Benedet’s performance has garnered praise from Johnson, who noted he “didn’t feel him out there,” indicating effective play without disruption.

Meanwhile, running backs coach Eric Bieniemy has been focusing on fundamentals across the board, ensuring that all backs, including Swift, are aligned correctly and executing plays effectively. Swift’s performance on Monday was not only statistically impressive but also signaled a shift toward a more efficient running game.

As the Bears prepare for their next matchup, they are determined to maintain this newfound success in their running game. “We’re better and more cohesive now than we were five weeks ago,” said center Drew Dalman. “We’ll continue to improve.”

With the potential for continued success on the ground, the Bears are looking to establish a strong identity moving forward. The urgency of this development cannot be overstated, as an effective running game will be pivotal for quarterback Caleb Williams in the weeks to come.

Expect more action as the Bears aim to build on this crucial victory and solidify their position in the league.