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J.J. McCarthy, Caleb Williams’ Postgame Handshake Draws Attention After Vikings-Bears Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Sep 9, 2025 12:47 AM ET

The Chicago Bears controlled Monday night’s game against the Minnesota Vikings for three quarters, but the fourth proved decisive — and the Vikings took full advantage.

Chicago led 10-6 at halftime and entered the final frame with a 17-6 lead, completely shutting down any rhythm Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy had in his first career start.

But in the fourth quarter, McCarthy found his footing while the Bears’ offense stalled until it was too late. Minnesota scored three touchdowns in the final period to rally for a 27-24 victory, taking a 27-17 lead with under three minutes to play.

After the game, McCarthy and Bears quarterback Caleb Williams — both top-ten picks in the 2024 NFL draft — shared a postgame moment in their first-ever head-to-head matchup.

"What a battle," NFL posted.

Check it out:

What a battle. pic.twitter.com/aqBQUYWzkE
— NFL (@NFL) September 9, 2025

Fans reacted to the quick, but respectful interaction:

"First of many between these two," a fan said.

Someone else added, "Indeed it was a battle of triumph."

Another person wrote, "It wasn't a battle. The Bears gave this game away because they're the Bears."

"J McCarthy is just a winner. KOC is a QB mastermind," a fan posted.

One more commented, "Until next time."

While Caleb Williams rushed for the first touchdown of the game, he didn’t lead the Bears offense back into the end zone until the final drive, when he connected with Rome Odunze for a late touchdown.

Williams finished the night completing 21 of 35 passes for 210 yards, adding two total touchdowns and 58 rushing yards.

J.J. McCarthy, meanwhile, accounted for all three of Minnesota’s fourth-quarter touchdowns. He finished with 143 passing yards, two touchdown passes, one interception, and 25 rushing yards with a rushing score.

Next week, the Bears hit the road to face the Detroit Lions, while the Vikings host the Atlanta Falcons in their home opener on "Sunday Night Football."

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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