In a surprising turn of events during their final game of the 2024 season, the Chicago Bears executed a clever punt return trick play against the Green Bay Packers, resulting in a 94-yard touchdown by Josh Blackwell. With little to play for other than disrupting the Packers' playoff seeding, the Bears pulled out all the stops on special teams.
The play unfolded with the Bears positioning two returners near the end zone. One returner feigned receiving the punt, drawing the Packers' attention while Blackwell stealthily retreated down the left sideline. As the ball descended, Blackwell's teammate intentionally let it fall, creating the illusion of a touchback. However, Blackwell caught the punt and sprinted towards the opposite end zone, leaving the Packers bewildered.
By the time Green Bay realized the deception, Blackwell had a wall of blockers ahead, and only punter Daniel Whelan grasped the situation. Two Bears players effectively shielded Whelan, allowing Blackwell to score untouched. In a celebratory gesture, Blackwell even attempted a "Lambeau Leap," much to the chagrin of Packers fans.
While the 4-12 Bears entered the game with their sights set on the upcoming NFL Draft, the Packers were focused on securing a favorable playoff seed. A victory combined with a Washington Commanders loss would have elevated Green Bay to the sixth seed. The Commanders, however, were engaged in a tight contest against the Dallas Cowboys.
The Bears' 2024 season began with high expectations, fueled by the arrival of first overall pick Caleb Williams. A 4-2 start sparked playoff buzz, but a subsequent ten-game losing streak led to the dismissal of head coach Matt Eberflus and GM Ryan Poles. The team is now focused on building around Williams for the future.
