Williams completed 22 of 33 passes in his second game back from a right hamstring injury. He became the first Bears quarterback to pass for more than 300 yards in consecutive games since Mitch Trubisky did it three times in a row in 2018. Chicago improved to 5-2; New England fell to 4-3.

Rookie receiver Luther Burden had four catches for 130 yards, including a 24-yard touchdown with 14 seconds left in the first half that gave Chicago a 20-7 lead. Tight end Colston Loveland added a 12-yard touchdown reception.

The Patriots answered just before halftime when Maye found Rhamondre Stevenson for a 48-yard touchdown on the final play of the period. Maye finished 24 of 31 for 321 yards and two touchdowns, but his first-half end-zone interception cost New England a scoring chance. Stevenson caught five passes for 93 yards and a touchdown, while Eli Raridon hauled in a 30-yard scoring pass in the third quarter.

With 1:34 remaining, Santos connected from 58 yards, matching Chicago’s franchise record and setting a career best. He had missed from 53 yards earlier in the fourth quarter. Maye led the Patriots into field-goal range, and Andy Borregales made a 47-yarder with 37 seconds left, but Chicago recovered New England’s ensuing onside kick to secure the win.

The game was Chicago’s first at home since Ditka, the Hall of Fame tight end and longtime Bears coach, died Oct. 9. The team held a pregame moment of silence, and fans paid tribute in the stands with his No. 89 jersey, Bears sweaters reminiscent of his sideline look and novelty mustaches.

Williams and Maye, longtime friends who were selected first and third overall in the 2024 NFL draft, faced each other for the second time. New England had won its previous three games behind Maye, who threw 10 touchdowns and one interception during that run.

The Patriots are scheduled to visit Miami on Nov. 1. Chicago’s next game is at Seattle on Nov. 2.