Fred Jackson's overtime run that lead to a game deciding field goal was what guaranteed victory for the visting Buffalo Bills, but turnovers on offense cost Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears in an opening day loss few predicted.
The Bears took a 7-0 lead after a touchdown on their first drive of the game, Cutler finding Martellus Bennett for a 12-yard score.
However the Bills scored 17 points unanswered, a two yard run from E.J Manuel was followed by a field goal and a score following a Brandon Marshall fumble.
Alshon Jeffery leaving the game early took some rythm away from the offense as well as the injuries to Matt Slauson and Roberto Garza, but two interceptions from Cutler including a late pick with the game tied at 17 were what cost the Bears a victory.
"Turnovers and penalties, those will kill you," Cutler told media following the game.
The Bears pass rush showed flashes, especially from costless agent pickup Willie Young but the run defense didn't look as improved as some hoped - giving up 193 rushing yards between C.J Spiller and Jackson, whose 38 yard gain in overtime all but guaranteed the Bills a shock win.
The Bears move onto meet the San Francisco 49ers, no doubt looking to improve on their now 0-1 record.
Key stats:
Chicago Bears:
Jay Cutler: 34/49, 349 yards, 2 TD's, 2 INT's
Matt Forte: 17 carries, 82 yards
Buffalo Bills:
EJ Manuel: 16/22, 173, 1 TD
Fred Jackson: 7 carries, 61 yards