The Green Bay Packers’ secondary didn’t just hold its own against the Bears - it took over. In a game where defensive execution was going to be the difference, four of the Packers’ top five graded defenders (via PFF) were members of the secondary, with Keisean Nixon leading the charge. His 82.4 grade reflected more than just solid coverage - it captured a game-sealing moment that defined the Packers’ defensive identity in this one.
Let’s start with Nixon. He’s been a reliable presence all season, but this game was a step above.
His late-game interception in the end zone - a savvy read and break on a ball intended for tight end Cole Kmet - didn’t just stop a potential touchdown. It likely saved the game.
If Kmet hauls that in, Chicago has a real shot at taking the lead with a two-point conversion and less than 30 seconds on the clock. Nixon's play was the kind of moment that separates good defenders from clutch playmakers.
But he wasn’t alone. Rookie safety Javon Bullard posted a strong 75.2 grade, showing off the range and instincts that made him a Day 2 pick.
Evan Williams and Carrington Valentine also graded out well (69.9 and 67.8, respectively), each stepping into their roles with confidence and physicality. When four members of your secondary earn above-average grades, that’s not just individual success - that’s a unit clicking at the right time.
And they had their hands full. The Bears came in with a dynamic, Ben Johnson-designed passing attack, and while things got a little looser in the second half, the Packers’ defense kept Caleb Williams in check overall.
The rookie quarterback finished 19-of-35 for 186 yards, averaging just 5.3 yards per attempt. That’s a win for any defense, especially when you consider how explosive Williams can be when he gets into rhythm.
The Packers also managed to erase DJ Moore from the game entirely - no small feat. Moore, one of the league’s most dangerous receivers after the catch, was held to just one reception for negative four yards.
That’s not just a quiet day - that’s a shutdown. With Rome Odunze sidelined, the Bears had to lean on rookie Luther Burden III, who managed a respectable four catches for 67 yards.
But beyond Burden, Chicago’s receivers were ghosts. Everyone else combined for just 27 receiving yards.
Green Bay’s secondary forced the Bears to pivot to tight ends and running back D’Andre Swift in the passing game - a clear sign that coverage downfield was holding strong. And while All-Pro safety Xavier McKinney didn’t crack the top five in PFF grades, his presence was still felt.
He and Williams each recorded seven tackles, while Bullard and Valentine chipped in with four apiece. Nixon added two passes defensed to go with his crucial interception - his first of the season.
Elsewhere on defense, Barryn Sorrell made the most of his limited snaps, earning a 67.8 grade and showing he could be a rotational piece worth watching down the stretch.
The big picture? This was a statement performance from a young, hungry secondary.
With contributions coming from all corners - rookies, veterans, and everyone in between - the Packers showed they have the depth and discipline to clamp down when it matters most. And if this group keeps playing at this level, Green Bay’s defense might just be the X-factor in the playoff push.