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The NFL schedule produced two important preseason finales on Saturday, with the Detroit Lions defeating the Indianapolis Colts 25-16 and the Chicago Bears beating the Tennessee Titans 24-15. While preseason results rarely define a team’s regular-season outlook, the games offered valuable clues about roster battles, quarterback depth and several players trying to make a lasting impression.
Explosive Bears play steals the spotlight
Chicago opened its game with one of the most memorable plays of the preseason. From its own 3-yard line, quarterback Tyson Bagent stepped into pressure and launched a deep pass toward Zavion Thomas. The rookie receiver created separation with a double move, then raced 97 yards for a touchdown.
According to Next Gen Stats, Bagent’s throw traveled 41.3 yards through the air, while Thomas reached a top speed of 21.99 mph. The third-round pick, known for his reported 4.28-second 40-yard dash, finished with five receptions for 140 yards. He also added a 39-yard punt return, giving Chicago a major spark on both offense and special teams.
Bagent was equally impressive throughout the afternoon. He completed 16 of 17 passes for 208 yards and two touchdowns, posting a remarkable 156.9 passer rating. The performance reinforced the growing belief that head coach Ben Johnson’s offense can create explosive plays regardless of which players are on the field.
Critical questions remain for Tennessee’s quarterback room
The Titans entered Saturday with Cam Ward and Mitchell Trubisky sitting out, leaving Will Levis with an important opportunity to strengthen his position. Levis played the first half and completed 14 of 22 attempts for 143 yards.
There were encouraging moments. Levis delivered a precise 28-yard pass to tight end Kylen Granson on fourth-and-2 and directed a clean 74-yard two-minute drive that ended with a field goal. He also placed a deep throw perfectly for Tyren Montgomery, but the potential 41-yard touchdown slipped through the receiver’s hands.
Still, the overall performance was uneven. Levis managed only nine points across five drives, fumbled a wide receiver handoff and converted just one of six third-down opportunities. He also benefited from two missed interception chances by the Chicago defense.
With the regular season approaching, Tennessee must decide whether to keep Levis as its third quarterback or explore trade possibilities. Saturday’s showing provided flashes of his arm talent but did not completely resolve the uncertainty surrounding his future.
Surprising Colts appearances add intrigue
Indianapolis unexpectedly gave two notable players brief appearances against Detroit. Keenan Allen, who signed with the Colts on a one-year deal on Aug. 19, played only four snaps but immediately made an impact.
Wearing No. 10 instead of his familiar No. 13, Allen caught a 24-yard pass from Anthony Richardson while moving across the field. The reception quickly moved Indianapolis to midfield and helped set up a field goal on the opening drive.
Allen’s limited workload appeared designed to give him a controlled introduction before his 14th NFL season. With Alec Pierce returning to practice and Josh Downs also in the receiving group, the veteran’s arrival could give Richardson another reliable target during the regular season.
Sauce Gardner also played four snaps and recorded an interception. The two-time All-Pro read a risky throw from Detroit quarterback Luke Altmyer, plucked the ball from the air and ended the Lions’ drive. After appearing in only four games for Indianapolis following a trade last season, Gardner’s brief showing was an encouraging sign as he works toward a healthier campaign.
Urgent development needed for Detroit cornerback
The Lions secured the victory, but cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. experienced another challenging outing. The 2024 second-round pick played the entire first half and allowed three receptions for 44 yards on five targets.
Rakestraw surrendered a 25-yard fourth-down catch to Anthony Gould and then gave up a 14-yard reception to Deion Burks on the following play. He did provide a positive counterpoint, recording six tackles and making a diving interception on a poor throw from Riley Leonard.
Across the preseason, Rakestraw allowed 11 receptions for 151 yards on 15 targets, with two passes defensed and one interception. The numbers highlight an important depth-chart battle as Detroit evaluates its cornerback options ahead of roster decisions.
What Saturday means for the NFL schedule
These preseason games marked a significant checkpoint before the regular season. The final exhibition weekend gives teams one last opportunity to assess young talent, protect key veterans and determine which position battles require further attention.
- Chicago: Zavion Thomas emerged as a dynamic offensive and return threat.
- Tennessee: Will Levis showed arm strength but remains surrounded by uncertainty.
- Indianapolis: Keenan Allen and Sauce Gardner made immediate impressions in limited action.
- Detroit: Ennis Rakestraw’s coverage struggles remain a concern despite his interception.
As the NFL schedule moves closer to the regular season, Saturday’s performances could influence final roster decisions and playing-time plans across four teams.
Frequently asked questions
Who won the Saturday preseason games?
The Detroit Lions defeated the Indianapolis Colts 25-16, while the Chicago Bears beat the Tennessee Titans 24-15.
Who scored the biggest play of the day?
Chicago rookie Zavion Thomas scored on a 97-yard touchdown reception from Tyson Bagent.
How did Tyson Bagent perform?
Bagent completed 16 of 17 passes for 208 yards, two touchdowns and a 156.9 passer rating.
What was notable about Keenan Allen’s appearance?
Allen played four snaps for Indianapolis and caught a 24-yard pass from Anthony Richardson.
What is the concern surrounding Will Levis?
Levis showed strong arm talent but struggled with consistency, third-down efficiency and ball security during his first-half appearance.
