Chicago, IL (Sports Network) - Robbie Gould's 41-yard field goal sailed through the uprights as time expired to lift the Chicago Bears to a 23-22 win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
The Panthers led 19-14 (1-6) with just under seven minutes to play, but Cam Netwon's pass was intercepted by Tim Jennings and the cornerback took it 25 yards for a touchdown to give Chicago (6-1) a 20-19 advantage.
But Newton, who criticized the offense in a postgame tirade last week, led the Panthers into field goal range. Justin Medlock blasted a 43-yard field goal off the right upright but the ball ricocheted over the crossbar to give Carolina a 22-20 lead.
Jay Cutler, who had an absolutely dreadful first half, led Bears down the field in nine plays to set up the Gould field goal, completing 6-of-7 passes on the drive for 52 yards.
Cutler finished the game 19-for-28 passing for 186 yards and a touchdown and an interception. Matt Forte carried the ball 15 times for 70 yards and a score and Brandon Marshall had nine catches for 98 yards in the Bears' fifth straight win.
Newton was 20-for-39 through the air for 314 yards, but threw a pair of interceptions. Steve Smith hauled in seven balls for 118 yards, but dropped a sure touchdown with 2:43 to play.
The Sports Network