The New England Patriots scored a stunning 48-yard touchdown with the clock expiring in the first half of their game against the Chicago Bears on Thursday Night Football. The Patriots were trailing 20-7 with just 14 seconds remaining in the second quarter, but quarterback Drake Maye decided to take a shot at scoring rather than kneel the clock out. Maye dumped the ball off to running back Rhamondre Stevenson, who managed to find some space and waited for his teammates to block for him. The Bears' defenders, who seemed to be focused on preventing a Hail Mary attempt, over-pursued Stevenson, allowing him to sprint into the end zone for the score.
The Patriots' miraculous touchdown cut the Bears' lead to 20-14 at halftime. According to NextGenStats, Stevenson had only a 4.3% chance of scoring once the ball hit his hands, making the play all the more surprising. The game was the Bears' first home game since the passing of legendary coach Mike Ditka, and it began with a moment of silence for the Super Bowl-winning coach. Fans were also given fake mustaches to replicate Ditka's iconic look.
The Patriots had entered the game on a three-game winning streak, and they will look to continue their momentum in the second half. The Bears, meanwhile, will be hoping to regroup and build on their early lead.
NTC Report coverage is based on reporting from the original publisher.
View original reporting →
