The Chicago Bears have officially secured the NFC North title following the Green Bay Packers’ 41-24 defeat to the Baltimore Ravens. This victory marks the Bears’ first division championship since 2018 and comes ahead of their critical upcoming game against the San Francisco 49ers. The matchup against the 49ers will play a significant role in determining the NFC’s top seed.
The Bears clinched their postseason spot just eight days after their previous win, a 22-16 overtime victory against Green Bay. This latest development was cemented after the Detroit Lions lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 16, allowing Chicago to claim the division crown. Head coach Ben Johnson has achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming only the second Bears coach since the 1970 merger to win the division in his first full season, a feat previously accomplished by Matt Nagy in 2018.
Chicago’s turnaround from last year’s struggles has been dramatic. After finishing with a 5-12 record and firing former coach Matt Eberflus midseason, the Bears now sit atop the NFC North with 11 wins as they enter Week 17. Historical data shows that in 20 of the past 23 seasons, at least one NFL team has won its division the year after finishing last or tied for last place, highlighting the Bears’ impressive achievement. Hosting a playoff game at Soldier Field this January has been a primary goal for Johnson, especially after witnessing the crowd’s energizing impact during the recent win over Green Bay.
Johnson commented on the crowd’s influence, stating, “I felt that crowd and I was so blown away by the impact that they had last Saturday night that I think that we all want to be playing a playoff game in front of them so they can have that same impact there.” He emphasized the team’s focus on securing the division and earning the right to host a playoff game by performing well in the final games of the season.
If the Bears win their Week 17 game and again in Week 18 against the Detroit Lions, they will tie their highest number of wins in the past 15 years with 12 victories. Additionally, Chicago would remain in contention for the No. 1 seed in the NFC if the Seattle Seahawks lose one of their final games. Securing the top seed would grant the Bears a first-round bye, an advantage that could prove decisive in their postseason aspirations.
Chicago’s resilience this season is notable, with six wins coming after trailing in the last two minutes of the fourth quarter. This is the highest number of such comebacks by any NFL team since 1970. Quarterback Caleb Williams has emerged as a clutch performer, delivering game-winning plays like the touchdown pass to undrafted rookie wide receiver Jahdae Walker with 28 seconds remaining to tie the Packers game, then connecting with DJ Moore for a 46-yard touchdown in overtime to seal the victory.
Williams acknowledged the growing momentum and his aspirations for the team, stating, “I do take a little satisfaction in being able to help this team, help this organization, be a part of it to get to the playoffs.” He added that his focus is not only on reaching the postseason but on “winning and winning big,” and committed to continuing his development for the benefit of the Bears, the coaching staff, and the city.
With the NFC North title now secured, the Chicago Bears look forward to hosting playoff football amidst high expectations. Their next games will be crucial in defining their playoff seeding and continuing a season of remarkable progress and renewed optimism.
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