The Chicago Bears' baffling loss to the Detroit Lions on Thanksgiving Day ultimately led to the dismissal of head coach Matt Eberflus. A critical moment in the game's final seconds highlighted the issues that plagued Eberflus' tenure.

With the Bears trailing by three points and needing a field goal to tie, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams was sacked. As the clock ticked down with 30 seconds remaining, the offense struggled to line up, losing valuable time. Eberflus had a timeout remaining, but inexplicably chose not to use it. Williams' last-second pass fell incomplete, sealing the Bears' defeat.

The failure to call a timeout was a major point of contention. Following the game, reports surfaced of a tense locker room atmosphere. Team president Kevin Warren's extended presence after the loss hinted at impending changes. Eberflus' post-game address was described as chaotic, interrupted by cornerback Jaylon Johnson's outburst of frustration over the team's continued struggles.

Reports indicated that Eberflus' message of perseverance despite repeated losses had worn thin with the players. His 5-19 record in one-score games, the worst in NFL history with at least 20 such games, further solidified the decision to terminate his contract mid-season, a first for the Bears franchise. The team's previous close losses, including a tipped Hail Mary pass against the Washington Commanders, contributed to the growing dissatisfaction with Eberflus' leadership.

Thomas Brown has since been appointed as the interim head coach for the remainder of the season.