This game has the potential to be a drag-out brawl. The Chicago Bears are hosting the Green Bay Packers, their first home playoff game since the “Double Doink” game. These two NFC North rivals split the season series 1- 1. Weather could be a factor, as wind gusts are expected to reach up to 39 miles per hour. Who wins round three of the 2026 chapter of Bears/Packers? Let’s dive into it!
Key’s For A Green Bay Packers’ Victory
If the Green Bay Packers are going to win in the Windy City, they must control the clock. It’s no secret that their defense hasn’t been the same since losing Micah Parsons. What’s the best thing you can do to help your defense? Keep them off the field. I expect a big game from Josh Jacobs, as he needs to tire out this subpar Bears defense.
Jordan Love must control the controllable. What do I mean by control the controllable? He is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL in terms of arm strength, which is great, but it can also get him in trouble. Over the course of the season, he has had stretches of spectacular play, then plays that have the Cheese Heads looking for the grader. Going against the team that forced the most takeaways in the league this season, don’t give this high-powered offense of the Bears extra possessions without making them earn it.
Packers’ defensive coordinator, Jeff Hafley, has put together two great game plans to slow down Chicago’s offense. In their two games, Green Bay has held them to 22 and 21 points, both below their season average. The 3rd time two divisional opponents play is normally a chess match. You’ve already shown the majority of your ‘good looks,’ but what’s going to be the wrinkle that forces a big stop or turnover?
Avenues For A Bears’ Win
The Bears have been one of the most surprising teams in the NFL this season. Not because of their success, but because of how quickly they achieved it. Ben Johnson has turned this offense into a baby version of what the Lions teams were over the past two seasons. Chicago needs to lean into what it is. A physical, dominant, smash-mouth running team with the ability to bomb teams over the top with chunk plays.
Chicago’s defense led the league in takeaways with 33 in the regular season. Not that they are counted as such, but in the playoffs, turnovers almost count as double, since possessions are so valuable. With the turnover stat being a variable and nothing you can count on for a game-to-game basis, they must take advantage when the ball comes their way. Love will give them opportunities to make plays, make them.
Caleb Williams has to play with the confidence he has shown all season, dating back to his college days. The Bears drafted you number one for a reason. Prove them right. His talent is almost limitless, with his arm strength and playmaking ability. Lean into your athleticism. I wouldn’t be shocked if he tucks it and runs more often than he did in the regular season.
Who Wins?
I have the Chicago Bears winning their first playoff game since 2010. The Packers are too beat up for me to be confident in taking them. The Ben Johnson era is underway with the best start they could ask for. Chicago won the division for the first time since 2010, and that building will be rocking. Who do you think wins the rubber match between these two foes?
As always, thank you so much for checking out my thoughts and preview of the Wild Card game between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears! Be sure to check out our other amazing content here at New Leaf News! We hope you’re enjoying your day and look forward to seeing you again soon.
