Bears head coach Ben Johnson had never started a backup quarterback until tonight, when Case Keenum took the field for the opening possession.
Caleb who?
Keenum, subbing for the injured Caleb Williams, directed an 11-play, 66-yard touchdown drive much to the delight of the Soldier Field crowd. His 8-yard forward flip to Luther Burden, who fought through traffic to the end zone, counted as a touchdown throw.
It was Keenum’s first since a 3-yard touchdown pass to Noah Brown while playing for the Texans against the Titans on Dec. 17, 2023, and the 80th of his career. Keenum’s last start came a week later, in Week 16 of the 2023 season.
Keenum went 5-of-6 for 45 yards and a touchdown. He hit four different receivers.
D’Andre Swift carried four times for 14 yards.