David Blough and the Detroit Lions got off to a hot start, but Mitch Trubisky and the Chicago Bears rallied in the second half to win 24-20 on Thanksgiving.
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Final Score
Chicago Bears 24, Detroit Lions 20
Chicago Bears
With the eyes of a nation on him and the weight of the world on his shoulders, for a long time this looked like a game that Mitch Trubisky would confirm the worst fears of Bears fans about him. But after his second-half interception, he stepped up, and his game-winning drive will likely not get the credit it deserves. It featured two big-time throws and showed a composure that was vital in moving the Bears to .500.
No doubting the star of the show. With Taylor Gabriel out of action, Anthony Miller stepped up in a big way, routinely beating Justin Coleman and making the clutch plays that would ultimately see the Bears win.
It was a tale of two halves for stud pass-rusher Khalil Mack. He was quieter than usual in the opening half, but when the Lions were forced into obvious passing situations late in the game, he showed why he's worth all that money. With the Lions driving for the win, it was Mack who time and time again made life hard for David Blough with constant pressure.
It's not often a cornerback gets noticed for their work in the run game, but this was a big day for Kyle Fuller. His touchdown-saving tackle was the highlight, but his work on the edge in not just redirecting runners but drawing penalties was crucial.
Detroit Lions
Things started off pretty well for Justin Coleman with a couple of forced incompletions. But it spiraled out of control from there, and he simply couldn't cover Anthony Miller in the slot, and ultimately that match up was the game's defining one.
While the Lions' defense continues to disappoint, you can't fault the effort of Trey Flowers here. It's fair to say he hasn't quite lived up to the billing with a lack of elite play over the year, but his continued sack streak shows he can get pressure on anyone.
It can't be easy for an undrafted rookie free agent quarterback to get his first NFL start on a short week, but David Blough largely acquitted himself well. It's important not to go overboard, but he did stand up to a much-feared Bears defense and gave his team a chance.
While Kenny Golladay flourished, Marvin Jones struggled with his new rookie quarterback. He was guilty of two drops and while he picked up a touchdown, that owed more to a coverage bust than anything he did.
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