Describing Simone Biles as someone who performs well under pressure is an understatement. The most decorated gymnast in history, Biles is known for her poise and precision. But on Sunday, she found herself in a different role—a nervous Chicago Bears fan, cheering from the sidelines just like any other Chicagoan.
The Bears got off to a rough start in their Week 1 matchup against the Tennessee Titans at Soldier Field in Chicago.
The home team quickly found themselves in a deep hole, trailing 17-0 early in the game. By halftime, they had only managed a field goal, heading into the locker room down 17-3. It looked like a long day was ahead for Bears fans.
But the second half brought a different energy, especially from Chicago’s defense. They forced the Titans to punt on their first drive of the third quarter, but the Bears defense wasn’t satisfied with just getting the ball back—they wanted to make a game-changing play. Linebacker Daniel Hardy broke through the Titans’ protection and blocked the punt attempt, and right on the spot to capitalize was none other than Jonathan Owens, Biles’ husband and Chicago’s 5’11” safety. Owens scooped up the loose football and sprinted into the end zone, scoring the Bears’ first touchdown of the game. Suddenly, the deficit was cut to 17-10, and momentum shifted in Chicago’s favor.
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Biles, watching from the stands or home, couldn’t hide her excitement. When asked on social media how she felt after Owens’ incredible play, she responded with pure emotion. “I ALMOST HAD A HEART ATTACK,” she wrote in all caps, fully capturing the thrill of the moment.
Chicago’s defense continued to step up in a big way. They didn’t allow a single point in the second half and even added another touchdown, this time with a pick-six, further proving their dominance. In what had become a defensive battle, the Bears rallied to a stunning 24-17 comeback victory over the Titans, thanks largely to the 15 points generated by the defense.
For Jonathan Owens, it was a game to remember. And for Biles, it was a day filled with the emotional highs and lows that every die-hard football fan knows all too well.
While prized rookie quarterback Caleb Williams struggled in his NFL debut, completing just 14 of 29 passes for 93 yards and rushing for 15 yards, it was Chicago’s defense—and Owens’ big play—that stole the show.
The Bears were able to overcome their early struggles and deliver a memorable Week 1 win, with Biles cheering every step of the way.
