NFL Wildcard Weekend 2026: Packers vs. Bears

Let's get the obvious out of the way: last weekend's game at Minnesota to conclude the regular season was a yawner, a preseason-type game masquerading as Week #18.

The Packers rested a lot of players, many by default from injuries, etc. And remember, there had been no "bye" week since Week #5. Playing on fumes. So Packers head coach Matt LaFleur decided to rest as many of his valuable and/or healthy players as possible in advance of their already-known #7 Wildcard seed against either Chicago or Philadelphia. With Da Bearz' loss in Detroit — with their coach noting that some coaches rest their guys going into the playoffs while others (such as themselves) "play football" (a-hem) —and the results, the Pack gets exactly who they want in the first round of the playoffs: our friends to the south.

The Preview

For the third time in 6 weeks, and with the season series split at 1-1 (although even Chicago fans and pundits admit the Packers outplayed Da Bearz in both games and, barring a botched onside kickoff recovery, would have won the second game after taking the first), the Packers travel once again to the Mistake by the Lake for a Prime-time matchup...get it? (The game is only available on Amazon Prime. Good luck with that if you are outside the primary markets.)

After getting knocked out of the last game in Chicago with a 1st half

concussion and finally getting out of concussion protocol, QB Jordan Love

will be counted on for a big game against Da Bearz despite what might

be some typically bad Chicago January weather.

(Photo via Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

This, interestingly, in the long history of the rivalry between Green Bay and Chicago, is just the third time that the two teams have met up in the playoffs. In the first meeting, back in the late 1940s if memory serves, Chicago got the win. In the second meeting, in the NFC Championship Game in Chicago in 2010, the Packers came away with the win, sealed by a B.J. Raji pick-6 off QB Smokin' Jay Cutler. Sweet.

Tonight? Hmmm...

Well, the Packers roll into this game on a 4-game losing streak. Not ideal. But key players have been able to get healthier. Despite that, and RB Josh Jacobs saying he feels the best he has since mid-November (that's good!), Packers GM Brian Gutekunst made a flurry of changes to the roster over the last few weeks: claiming guys, releasing guys, signings here and there. Busy. All to bolster the Pack's depth going into the playoffs...and to also stock the practice squad cabinet up a bit for next season, too, one might guess.

On the flip side, Chicago is coming into this game on a  2-game losing streak. And, yes, they will be getting some key pieces back, as well.

But...when you compare the two teams, overall, which has the most talent? Especially at the key positions? The Packers. The Packers defense, inconsistent especially in the second half of the season and after the season loss of Micah Parsons, can't pull a reprise of their game versus the Ravens in which they parted like the Red Sea for RB Derrick Henry. Chicago has a pair of running backs who can also cause problems for an opposing defense. Of course, QB Caleb Williams can also cause problems, particularly with his legs if he escapes the pocket. He has also developed an ability over the season to become better throwing on the run. Force him to throw in the pocket and an INT or two could be had. Which would be a real boost in this game as the Packers have fallen short in terms of getting turnovers this season. Now, one of the recent roster additions for the Pack, claimed off waivers from Dallas (thanks, again, Jerry!), is CB Trevon Diggs. He saw some action in the Minnesota game and recent interviews with Diggs indicate that he is very comfortable in the Packers defense right now. He could certainly have a big impact in this game.

Conversely, Chicago has been a turnover/takeaway machine this season. They are 9-0 when they get two or more turnovers in a game, and nowhere close when they get one or none. So, for the Packers, it is critical they do not turn the ball over in this game. Or make special teams mistakes.

What will be the weather impact tonight? "Blustery"  seems to be the operative word. There will be wind gusts of 20-30 mph, dropping wind-chill temperatures, and the possibility of blowing light snow. Passing and kicking could be affected for both teams, obviously. And the conditions would seem to favor the run game and make turnovers of all kinds even more of a likelihood.

The Prediction

 The Packers are currently favored at the time of this writing by 1-1/2 points ... earlier in the week, Chicago was favored by the same amount. Even famed Chicago ESPN sportswriter Michael Wilson calls it a toss-up, which it obviously pained him to do.

On the other hand, my friend Billy Da Bearz Fan, called the game 36-34 Chicago. He's biased, true. The over-under has actually dropped to the vicinity of around 44-1/2, so the likelihood of a 70-point game seems ... not likely. Nor does the Chicago win.

We expect another close game. But you know what? The last game wasn't. Until about the last few minutes. The Pack had it and gave it away.

Not tonight. Can't let Chicago hang around.

We're calling it Packers 27 - Da Bearz 20.

Go Pack Go!!!

NFL Week 18: Packers vs. Vikings Preview & Prediction

Soooo...Packer fans...we were just a bit off in our prediction for last week. Yowza. Yes, it got within 3 points for a brief time. But, really. Not even close. The Ravens had more energy from the get-go. The Pack's run defense must have thought the game was on Sunday instead of Saturday because they were a no-show throughout the game. Embarrassing. We will spare you the details.

But with the NFC North Division title still open, the Packers decided to hand it on a silver platter to Da Bearz, along with the second seed in the upcoming NFC playoffs. For their efforts, or lack thereof, the Pack secured the seventh seed no matter what they do in the regular season finale against the ViQueens in Minnesota.

Which brings us to our preview...

The Preview

Let's be honest: this final regular season game for the Packers is much like the first game. Of the preseason. There's no way to improve their seeding for the playoffs. And with even more players hurt in last week's game — adding to the devastating tally of all the preceding games — the object, as it is in preseason, is to just get through the game without more injuries, especially to key players.

Hence, many of the starters will be held out or see minimal time on the field. Starting QB Jordan Love, who has missed the last few games as he was going through the concussion protocol, was cleared late this week. Think he will play to get some action in before the first playoff game (likely against Chicago, by the way...or possibly the Eagles)? Not a chance. QB Malik Willis? He's dinged up but under normal circumstances he'd likely go. Instead, third-string QB Clayton Tune got the word on Thursday that he will start the game, the second start of his brief NFL career. What about the running game? Josh Jacobs? With the injuries he's dealt and played with all season, he's a no-go. RT Zach Tom? Nope. There are others.

Ladies and gentlemen, your starting QB for the 2025 regular season

finale against the ViQueens: backup QB Clayton Tune.

(Photo via Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Now, let's also remember that the Packers bye week was a looooong time ago in Week #5. So these guys deserve a break. Playing for pride, sure, and a double-digit winning record again. But a loss won't hurt as much as losing more players to injury.

The silver lining is that this will be a chance to see what some of the younger backup players can do. At least there's that. Plus, not sure if you heard the late-breaking news of the week (kidding!): the Packers claimed one-time Pro Bowl cornerback Trevon Diggs off waivers from the Cowboys. He might actually see some limited playing time. Defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley indicated that they were working with him to get him up to speed on some of the language and schemes used on defense. Will be interesting to see how that plays out.

As a sign of how tight things are from a personnel standpoint, reports indicate that the Packers have added receiver Jakobie Keeney-James and guard/center Lecitus Smith from the practice squad to the 53-man roster, and tight end Drake Dabney and linebacker Jamon Johnson were elevated from the practice squad to the game-day roster. Whether "signed" or "elevated", these are some new names to watch for Sunday and likely in the playoffs.

Bottom line, according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "Since Dec. 26, the Packers have placed eight players on injured reserve, signed six players from the practice squad to the 53-man roster and claimed two players off waivers from other teams." Now, every team deals with injuries, we got it. But...yowza. None of this is how you want to roll into the playoffs. Particularly with a three-game, and potentially four-game, losing streak at play. Crikey.

Do we even need to bother talking about Minnesota? Well, they have now won a few in row. Have a very good defense under coordinator Brian Flores. Offense is so-so, as is — on a good day — young QB J.J. McCarthy. Not really as relevant to this point of view as all that's going on with the Packers, sorry.

The Prediction

Given the circumstances, the Packers are coming into this game as anywhere from a 7-1/2 to 9-1/2-point underdog. Packer fans would probably be very happy if the game wound up being this close.

We're calling this game Packers 13 - Vikings 24.

Hope we're wrong and perhaps catch lightening in a bottle. Let us pray.

Go Pack Go!!!

NFL Week 17: Packers vs. Ravens Preview & Prediction

Before our preview ... a review ...

The game in Chicago last Saturday night didn't turn out as anticipated, did it, Packer fans? A heartbreaking loss. Not only of the game, putting Da Bearz back in first place in the NFC North for the time being — and along with that a second seed in the NFC playoffs — but also losing QB Jordan Love to a concussion in the second quarter of the game on a hit for which the offender was subsequently fined. Backup QB Malik Willis came on in Love's place and, as he has done every time when called upon, kept the Packers in the game.

It even looked, with about 5 minutes left and up by 10 points, that the Pack would walk out of the Mistake By The Lake (i.e., Soldier Field) with a victory. But a comedy of errors, including a botched onside kick recovery by Romeo Doubs with less than 2 minutes to go — and missed opportunities over the course of the game (five trips to the red zone and only three field goals to show for their efforts) — wound up seizing defeat from the jaws of victory. Fugly. By the way, in the last two games the Packers are only one for nine in touchdowns in their red zone trips...a  recipe for defeat if ever there was one... eeesh!

Still, with Aaron Rodgers and his resurgent Steelers beating the Lions last weekend, and the ViQueens beating Detroit in a Christmas Day game, the Packers locked up a playoff berth. Currently the 7th seed, if memory serves, they could still wind up finishing as the 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th or 7th seed depending on how these final two games go for them as well as others in the NFC. 

So that brings us to tonight's game. So let's see what lies ahead, shall we?

Backup QB Malik Willis will be leading the Packers

offense against the Ravens as starter Jordan Love is still

in concussion protocol following last weekend's game.

(Photo via Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

The Preview

The first thing to note by way of the preview is that QB Jordan Love has been ruled out for tonight's game as he is apparently still in the league's concussion protocol from last week's game against Chicago. Since he practiced a couple days this week there was a great deal of optimism that he would be available tonight. But ... not. Backup Malik Willis will be taking the snaps, despite also having suffered a shoulder injury against Chicago late in the game. No doubt head coach Matt LaFleur saw the handwriting on the wall as the week went on and has schemed his offense to make the most use of Willis' own talents while giving Willis a full week to also be prepared to play against Baltimore, despite missing a practice with an illness; illness is hitting the Packers' locker room, btw, as both guard Aaron Banks and receiver Savion Williams were downgraded to questionable because of illness. Oy.

The question about who will be Willis' backup inevitably arises: practice squad quarterback Clayton Tune will be in uniform tonight, wearing #19. The Packers have the option of signing him to the 53-man roster or elevating him to the game-day roster. Either way, let's hope Willis makes it through the game unharmed and keeps Mr. Tune carrying the clipboard throughout.

RB Josh Jacobs is expected to return to the field this evening despite the knee issue which has hindered him the last few weeks. Of course, he had a costly fumble at Chicago's 2-yard line last weekend that would likely have sealed the win for the Pack had they gone on to score there either by TD or FG. Jacobs was, for whatever reason, held out the rest of the game with Emanuel Wilson carrying the bulk of the load from there on. It will be interesting to see how LaFleur divides the carries, especially with more of a run-centered approach with Willis at the helm.

Now, the Ravens will also be without their starting QB, Lamar Jackson, who is dealing with back issues. In his place, veteran backup Tyler Huntley will be behind center. As the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article by veteran Packers reporter Tom Silverstein reminds us: "When he last played the Packers, on Dec. 19, 2021, Huntley led the Ravens from a 14-point deficit to the cusp of victory in place of Jackson, who was out with an ankle injury. He completed 28 of 40 passes for 215 and two touchdowns and ran 13 times for 73 yards and two touchdowns. Down 31-30, coach John Harbaugh chose to go for the win, but safety Darnell Savage broke up Huntley’s 2-point conversion pass to tight end Mark Andrews. Huntley has shown the Ravens don’t have to change their offense when he's in the game." So...the Packers defense still needs to show up.

That is especially the case in trying to defend against RB and full-on rushing load Derrick Henry. What is he: 6'2" and 250 pounds? Something like that. As big as or bigger than many linebackers. But the Ravens also have RB Keaton Mitchell who received the majority of carries in their last game. They will attempt to pound the Packers' defense and wear down the front. If the Packers can't contain Henry — or Mitchell — in could be a long night on the Frozen Tundra of Lambeau Field.

The Prediction

Following the downgrading of Jordan Love to being out for tonight's game, the point spread went from the Pack being favored by 3-1/2 points to (at the time of this writing) 2-1/2 points. Obviously the marquee matchup between Love and Jackson at the time the NFL flexed the game to tonight has fallen by the wayside. Now, it's who wants it more? The Ravens are still fighting for their playoff lives while the Packers still — believe it or not — have a shot at winning the NFC North and securing the #2 seed in the NFC playoffs ... yeah, it could happen. Why not? Not many breaks have gone the Packers way this season so perhaps they get one for a change. Some fans are calling for the team to rest some players who could use a couple weeks off to be ready for the playoff run. But, again, until Da Bearz win their two remaining games, the NFC North title is still in play. So ... play.

This time of year and in northeastern Wisconsin one must always take a look at the weather forecast. Via sportingnews.com: "According to AccuWeather.com, the temperature will sit around 34-35 degrees the entire game, which isn't bad for this time of year. Adding to that, both teams are accustomed to playing in cold weather. Wind and precipitation won't be a factor, either, as there is a zero-percent chance for the latter and wind gusts will only reach a high of about 12 MPH." So, no worries about weather impacting the game.

We're calling this one Packers 20 - Ravens 17.

Go Pack Go!!!

NFL Week 16: Packers vs. Bears Preview & Prediction (Part Deux)

The Preview

After a disappointing loss in Denver last weekend, Packer fans, including especially the loss of DE Micah Parsons with a non-contact ACL tear that shuts him down for the remainder of the regular season, playoffs, and likely into the early part of the 2026 season, we come tonight to the regular season rematch with Da Bearz. Two games against each other in three weeks. Who makes these schedules???

As we recall, the Pack won the first round at Lambeau Field, although it came down to an end-of-game 4th-and-one-near-the-goal-line interception in the end zone to seal the deal. The Packers seemed to have things well in hand in the first half, although they left points on the field by having to settle for field goals rather than touchdowns (one in particular early on could have well helped put that game away). Following halftime, Chicago took charge and made a game of it. Despite the then-uninjured Parsons chasing Bears QB Caleb Williams all over the place, he did not record a sack. Williams found his on-the-run passing mojo and kept drives alive and the Packers defense on the field and wearing down. Not great.

But, still the "W" went in the Packers column. As it rightly should be.

The Packers defense — without Micah Parsons — will have to be on top

of its game against Chicago and QB Caleb Williams to emerge

with another "W" against Da Bearz.

(Photo via Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

So tonight, Packers defensive coordinator, Jeff Hafley, will have to pull out all the tricks in his bag to contain Williams and make him throw from the pocket — not his strong suit. Still, coming off his best game of the season, Williams will be looking to build upon his success. The Packers must find ways to force him into mistakes and to take advantage of those mistakes when they come their way. All season long, the Packers have had a tough time getting turnovers and especially hanging onto potential interceptions. Williams may very well throw a couple that should be picked off; Packers defenders must catch them.

Simple game, isn't it?

At this point in the season, though, injuries for all teams play a big role in outcomes. As of the time of this writing, the Packers have 9 players listed as questionable, about half on defense. Late this week, the Pack elevated DE Brenton Cox Jr. off the injured reserve list. He was having a good early start to the season before suffering a groin injury that placed him on injured reserve. Whether he plays tonight and how effective he'd be is anyone's guess. But football sometimes is a game of attrition and right now the Packers can use any able body, especially on defense. DE Lukas Van Ness should also see spot duty, so that's a plus. And do we also need to mention that DE Rashan Gary really needs to step up tonight in Parson's absence? Nobody's going to individually replace Parsons, but a collective effort along the defensive front can go a long way.

Offensively, RB Josh Jacobs is still dealing with knee issues but we can expect head coach Matt LaFleur to use him as he has in recent games: strategically. Jacobs knows he's a big factor in the Pack's offense and he'll do whatever he can do when he's in the game to win, whether running or in the passing game.

WR Christian Watson, who spent time in a Denver hospital following the game against the Broncos with what appeared to be possibly another season-ending injury at the time, may actually play in the game tonight. That would be huge as there's no Chicago defender that can cover him one-on-one. Another big lift would be the emergence of 2025 1st-round draft pick WR Matthew Golden. He's been used in small doses, but successfully so, especially recently. Perhaps with Watson somewhat limited (?) LaFleur will dial up Golden a bit more. With Jayden Reed back in the flow, Jacobs a legitimate receiving and yards-after-catch threat, if the Packers O-line (likely minus RT Zach Tom who was also injured vs. the Broncos) can protect QB Jordan Love, control time of possession, and convert touchdowns instead of field goals when they are in the red zone, the Packers should come out on top.

No denying, this will be a battle. While it pains us to acknowledge it, Chicago has the record it has for a reason at this point. They scraped by by the skin of their teeth through a number of games but still won. If the Packers let them hang around, as they did in the earlier meeting, Da Bearz could sneak out a win. Can't...let...that...happen.

For the Packers: stop the stupid pre-snap penalties, take advantage of turnover opportunities, special teams needs to come through...play a full 60-minutes in sync...you know, complementary football. You got this. Remember: you own Da Bearz!

The Prediction

The weather forecast for this evening is actually balmy for this time of year in Chicago. A few weeks ago, the forecast had frigid weather for this evening; now, temps at game time are supposed to be above freezing ... low/mid-30s...with wind chills in the 20s and going down throughout the game. With two of my good Bearz fans buddies attending the game tonight, I really was hoping for the frigid forecast. You know, what are friends for, right?

At the time of this writing, Chicago is favored by 1-1/2 points. Not surprising, at home and all. The over-under is set at 46-1/2.

Both teams are playing for the lead in the NFC North and playoff seeding. The Packers need to win 2 out of the next 3 games in order to secure their playoff berth. Run the table and they win the division, as well. Many pundits are taking Da Bearz tonight. Even my friend, Billy Da Bearz fan — not surprisingly — is taking his favorite team, 28-27. I commended him for his surprisingly close call...so out of character!

Against the odds tonight, we think the Pack will find a way to get it done.

We're calling it Packers 27 - Da Bearz 24. Hope it's not that close.

Go Pack Go!!!

NFL Week 15: Packers vs. Broncos Preview & Prediction

Before looking at this Sunday's game in Denver vs. the 11-2 Broncos, a quick look back to last weekend's game vs. Da Bearz in Lambeau Field. Here it is: Packers won ... 28-21! (If you check our prediction for that game, we once again had the spread correct on the final score, just off a few points for both teams with the prediction. Still ...)

The Pack was in control in the first half, but Chicago made adjustments at halftime which basically allowed them to make a game of it in the second half by controlling the time of possession. The Pack's defense was gassed. They couldn't get off the field and when they did, Green Bay's offense either scored too quickly (as defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley noted in his chat with the press during this past week) or couldn't sustain possessions to let their defense get a breather.

It was a nail biter at the end, with the victory sealed by an interception in the end zone on a 4th-and-1 play that new Chicago head coach Ben Johnson would probably like a mulligan on. Whew! The Packers see Da Bearz next Saturday night in Chicago in primetime in what will be an even colder game than they played last weekend. Bundle up if you're going (like my Chicago fan buddies Bill and Jack ... good luck with the cold guys, not the game).

On to the game at hand.

We hope to see the Packers celebrating like this

throughout the game versus the Broncos on Sunday.

(Photo by Jamie Schwaberow/Getty Images)

The Preview

Both of these teams are mentioned as Super Bowl contenders. Some pundits even suggest that this game may be a Super Bowl preview. Let's set that aside for the moment. Can't even get there without winning one game at a time, starting with this one, obviously.

Denver has won 10 straight games, albeit without really dominating opponents. They've won 11 straight home games going back to last season. The Broncos are coming off two straight road game wins. Returning to Mile High Stadium (is it still called that???), the home fans will be jacked. Historically, the Packers have not done well in Denver: 1-7.

Packers QB Jordan Love has already said the GB offense will be operating on a silent count the whole game because of the noise. Factor in the altitude, and this is a tough test for any team. 

The Broncos have a great defense — as does the Packers — and an ascending offense under QB Bo Nix. More on Denver's offense and quarterback in a moment.

The Broncos have the best third-down defense in the NFL and, coincidentally, the Packers have the best third-down offense in the NFL. The Broncos get many teams into a lot of third-and-longs. It will be a match up of heavyweights in those situations. Denver also likes to play the type of pass defense against which QB Jordan Love has had a great deal of success. So if the O-line can protect Love and give him time, he and his receivers could have a big day. That's a big if because Denver's defense has been a sack machine this season, on track to tie or even surpass the 1985 Bears. Yowza.

This will likely be the best defense, and especially defensive front, the Packers will see the rest of the season. The ability of the offensive line to create some running lanes for the Pack's running backs, to set up play-action, will be hugely tested. If they can't do that, it could be a long day for Love. It won't be easy as Denver's defense is No. 1 in the NFL in yards allowed per rushing attempt. Oy.

Back to Denver's offense and QB ... in terms of abilities, Nix reminds some of Chicago QB Caleb Williams: young guy, good arm and dangerous legs. The Packers know how to scheme against that type of quarterback. Execution of the scheme is, as always, the key. And Denver will have the home field advantage of the fans allowing them to call out the signals.

Weather conditions will be balmy in Denver for mid-December. Kickoff temperature is predicted to be in the low 60s. Sweet. Despite that, the Packers will still be wearing their "Winter Warning" all-white uniforms ... which have come to grow on at least some of us. (Yeah ... we like 'em!)

The Packers on Saturday, in a concerning move, added backup RB Emanuel Wilson to the injury report and listed him as questionable. This apparently arose due to an illness. It's concerning, of course, because starting RB Josh Jacobs is also questionable with his ongoing knee issue.  As a result of both of these circumstances, the Packers elevated RB Pierre Strong Jr. from the practice squad; this is Strong's third call-up of the season, the maximum allowed. Elsewhere, most of the receivers are good to go. And the Packers may even have DE Lukas Van Ness available, which would help along the defensive line. Every bit helps. Especially with the need to spell guys given the altitude issues which come along with a visiting team playing in Denver.

If it comes down to a special teams play, Denver has the edge. Returner Marvin Mims is statistically the greatest punt returner in league history in his young career with a 16.1 yard average. He's averaging 26.3 yards per kickoff return. Conversely, the Packers sit at 21st in punt coverage and 13th in kickoff coverage. Yikes! As fans know, penalties have been a real issue all season long for the special teams, with some Packers players now even suggesting that the officials are looking for penalties to call on the Pack while not doing so in a similar way for the opponents. More on that here.

Punter Daniel Whelen will need a big day when called upon to change field position. He's third in the league in average at 51.1 yards and seventh with a 42.7 yard net average. Obviously, kicker Brandon McManus also needs to be spot on with his kickoffs (i.e., make sure they land in the "landing zone" and not the end zone) and make his field goal attempts. With the thinner air, we may see some long attempts. Gotta make 'em, because it may come down to that.

The Prediction

Earlier in the week the Packers were favored by 2-1/2 ... against an 11-2 team ... who is playing at home. At the time of this writing, that spread has tightened and currently sits at 1-1/2 in favor of the Pack. In a game such as this, that doesn't really mean much. Accept perhaps giving the "no respect" card to the Broncos as added incentive. Both teams need to win to stay atop their respective divisions and help solidify playoff seeding in their conferences.

This game could well go down to who has the ball last. Hope not. 

We're calling this game Packers 24 - Broncos 23.

Go Pack Go!!!

NFL Week 14: Packers vs. Bears Preview & Prediction

Before getting into Sunday's game, let's take a victory lap for the Packers 31-24 win over the Lions in Detroit on Thanksgiving. Big win. A season sweep!

There. That's enough.

Now onto the game for the NFC North Division lead and the #1 seed in the NFL Playoff standings.

But first, I need to apologize for all the links that appear in this post. Some funky auto-insert thingie from Google that seems to be set to "on" and we haven't figured out how to turn it off. Sorry. Ignore them.

The Preview

Contender. Pretender. Da Bears. The Packers. Not necessarily in that order. One sitting at 9-3 atop the NFC North. (The horror ... the horror ...) The other, a half game behind at 8-3-1. But which team is really the better one? And which will emerge as the bona fide leader of the NFL and begin to separate a bit from the others as we head down the final stretch of the season? Yeah, a game with big consequences. Not a be-all, end-all. But with four out of the next five  games (including this one) in the division and two of those versus these same Bearz, this begins crunch time for playoff seeding, a first round bye, wild card, all that.

Da Bearz come into this game as a team not to be overlooked. They are atop the standings for a good reason, namely they create turnovers which has helped them cover up a number of glaring deficiencies. As Mina Kimes pointed out recently, Chicago is "leading the NFL with 26 takeaways, including 17 interceptions. But this is a boom-or-bust strategy. The Bears are 8-0 when they force at least two turnovers, but 1-3 when they create one or fewer takeaways." Digging into that stat further, she noted "The Bears' defense — dead last in success rate versus throws of 15 yards or more."

So, two things: the Packers have only had seven turnovers all season, including four fumbles. Packers QB Jordan Love has thrown only three interceptions. And when he throws downfield, he has had a good success rate, especially now that WR Christian Watson is back on the field. Dontayvion Wicks has also come on recently, especially with his big game on Thanksgiving.

Look for Packers WR Jayden Reed to be back

in the lineup against Da Bearz.

(Photo via Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

The Packers will also likely have wide receivers Jayden Reed and Matthew Golden available for the game against Chicago, as well as LB Quay Walker. Unfortunately, as Packers fans know, DT Devonte Wyatt is lost for the remainder of the season with an injury suffered in the win over the Lions. At the beginning of the season, Kenny Clark and Wyatt were the two guys being counted on to stuff the run. Now, neither is on the field, one via trade and the other via injury. That leaves a large hole in the defensive line which some young and recently-signed players are expected to fill. Per this article by Tom Silverstein in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, "... rookies Warren Brinson and Nazir Stackhouse will have to play meaningful snaps, along with newcomer Jordon Riley, to fill the void. The 6-foot-5, 338-pound Riley was signed off the Giants’ practice squad for one reason. “Run game, man,” Riley said. “I’m here to stop the run, especially this week with Chicago.” Even though he’ll have had just three days of practice, Riley should be active against the Bears."

With Chicago's running success in their last game on the road versus the Eagles — two running backs each with more than 100 yards rushing! — it could be a test for the Packers run-stopping defense which, let's be honest, has been hit and miss over the course of this season although in the game versus Detroit the Pack held Jahmyr Gibbs (the league’s No. 4 rusher) to 68 yards on 20 carries, and David Montgomery to eight carries for just 32 yards. Detroit is still primarily running the Ben Johnson offense which he brought with him to Chicago in his first year as head coach. So the Packers had a bit of a trial run against that offense on Thanksgiving. So there's that.

Bottom line: the way for the Packers to beat Da Bearz is for the Packers defense to stop the run and force the ball into QB Caleb Williams' hands while also keeping him from scrambling and beating you with his legs. Oh, did we note that Williams pass completion percentage is under 60 percent, which even Johnson noted was an element of their game that they were viewing as winning not because of but "in spite of". Hope you get that. By the way, Williams' favorite receiving target, Rome Odunze, is listed as out for the game. That's huge. Odunze is his security blanket. Will he now look more to his tight ends? Dump offs to the backs? Will be interesting to see the adjustments in the Chicago game plan as well as what Williams does when protection breaks down and he's about to get sacked by Micah Parsons. The game within the game, so to speak.

You can bet that Chicago will do their collective best to keep Jordan Love and the Pack offense on the bench. The best way to counter that approach, along with the Packers defense clamping down on Da Bearz running game, is for the Packers to get off to a fast start and have the "All gas, no brakes" mentality on both sides of the ball for a full 60 minutes.

Making Da Bearz play from behind puts the Pack in the driver's seat given Williams' issues. When Chicago stays close, they can pull off some late-minute heroics (remember the Pack's three-point losses to Cleveland and Carolina?). Da Bearz point differential — +6 — for a team with 9 wins is anemic. Again, all those takeaways have worked in their favor. Defensively, they are ranked towards the bottom of the league in a number of categories. Can't let them stay close. Need to put them away early and not let up.

An overlooked factor in the game today is the punting weapon for the Packers named Daniel Whelan. He's got a powerful leg (a 72-yard official yardage punt vs. the Lions ... yes, indoors, but still ...) and can definitely flip the field to the Packers advantage. We must also mention kicker Brandon McManus who seems to have rectified his accuracy issues since coming back from his quad injury. The one remaining issue is that he has been having trouble putting his kickoffs in the so-called "landing zone" and has been putting them into the opponent's end zone, which then brings the ball out to the 35-yard line. Not great. Can't give Da Bearz that kind of free yardage to start their possessions.

The Prediction

The Packers are currently favored by 6-1/2 points at the time of this writing. That seems like a lot for a game of this kind. But ... maybe not?

The playing conditions need to be factored in. It's December. In Green Bay. With a 3:25 p.m. CT kickoff and temps ranging from about 17 degrees down to about 11 degrees when the game ends, it will make the ball hard and slick. Runners and receivers will need to take extra care of the ball. Kickers and punters will need to be sure-footed, as will linemen, linebackers and defensive backs. A slip can make the difference between a win and a loss. But it's the same for both sides, as they say. Still, to get his team acclimated, head coach Matt LaFleur had his team practice outside all week. Can't hurt. Other than the possible frostbite.

We're calling it Packers 31 - Da Bearz 24. There's the contender and pretender order.

Go Pack Go!!!

2024 NFL Week 18: Packers vs Bears Preview & Prediction

Here we are,  Packer fans: the final game of the 2024 regular season. (Boy, it went fast, didn't it?!) And this game comes against the Pack's longest-standing rival, Da Bearz! What could be better? OK, OK, perhaps a Chicago team that's actually competitive once again. But let's be careful what we ask for, right?

On Sunday, there is a chance to continue to dominate a currently woeful Chicago franchise. That's always a good thing. Packers head coach Matt LaFleur is 11-0 heading into this match up with the team from south of the (Wisconsin) border. When the game is finished, that personal coaching record will go to 12-0 and take the Pack to 12-5 on the season overall. More on that in a bit.

But first, a quick return to last weekend's loss vs. the Minnesota ViQueens. Turns out, we were spot on with our score prediction, 27-25. How 'bout that? But ... we just had the teams reversed. Dang it!

Yes, the Pack came up short — again — against Minnesota, just as was the case twice versus Detroit this season. And once against the Eagles. Darn it. One of the keys to victory that we noted in our Minnesota preview was getting to QB Sam Darnold so he wouldn't pick apart the Packers defense. Weeeelllll ... that didn't quite happen the way we hoped. And the Packers offense misfired just enough to let the Vikes take the game. That early fumble on the first drive by Josh Jacobs ... how many times do things such as this seem to be an early indicator of how the rest of the game will go? QB Jordan Love was not as sharp as he needed to be, either. Just too much. And a 2-point loss. (Sigh...)

OK, let's get on to this game against Chicago, shall we?

Packers RB Josh Jacobs scoring vs. Da Bearz. While it is hoped that Jacobs doesn't have to play the entire game on Sunday, we do hope to see him once again entering the end zone a time or two on the way to a Packers win.

(Photo by Mark Hoffman/Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

The Preview

The Packers, sitting at 11-5 currently and in third place in the NFC North, have already locked up a wildcard playoff spot. The only things undetermined are whether it will be the sixth or seventh spot and the resulting first round opponent. For Da Bearz, at 4-12 and on a 10-game losing streak after a 4-2 start, they have already locked up last place in the NFC North and a fast trip to the offseason following the conclusion of the game.

While Chicago has some weapons on offense, particularly at wide receiver, their offensive line has been a sieve, leading to rookie QB Caleb Williams not having exactly the kind of season management had hoped for when he was drafted with the number one overall pick. He's been under pressure and sacked a ton. Combine that with coaching firings during the season and one might speculate that Williams will find himself in the same spot a few years down the road as a few other recent high Chicago QB picks that have fallen by the wayside. Much will depend upon who the McCaskey family decides to hand the head coaching job to in the coming season. Fans at Soldier Field during the game vs. Seattle were chanting "Sell the team" ... so ... things there are not good on just about any front.

That's enough space talking about Da Bearz.

As for the Pack, it should be a matter of getting out to a fast start and putting up points early and often. This has been the key to the Packers success this season, and the key to its five losses when they haven't been able to do so. Pro Bowl RB Josh Jacobs will be important in that effort. Given the amount of work he has taken on this season, it will be most helpful if he can hit the bench early and get some rest going into the playoffs. Coach LaFleur has said he's not going to rest any of the starters going into the game. But he obviously would be in favor of giving as much rest to these players as possible and that means having a comfortable lead at some point in the second half.

The Packers will have all their regular offensive weapons on display. WR Christian Watson should be available, too, and TE Luke Musgrave might also see a bit more action than last week where they eased him back into things. There were hints from the coaching staff that they felt Musgrave could finally be one of those receiving threats they had anticipated when drafting him — in addition to all the others — that could really open up the offense even more during the playoffs.

Defensively, the Packers received the news this week that CB Jaire Alexander underwent surgery for the PCL injury that has been bothering him a good portion of the season. With hindsight, instead of trying to get back on the field, someone in the Packers organization should have pulled the plug on him early, put him on IR, made an additional roster spot available, and now would likely have him back for the playoff run. Instead, the earliest he might be available would reportedly be the Super Bowl. Which raises the question, as we have noted before, as to whether Alexander will even be back with the Packers at all next season despite his contract given his limited availability for the past two years in particular. But that decision is down the road.

Besides Alexander, the other inactives for the Pack include linebackers Quay Walker and Zane Anderson, S Evan Williams and OT Andre Dillard.

One big highlight in recent weeks for the Packers has been the emergence of LB Edgerrin Cooper. Expect more good things ahead from "Super Cooper". He should have a big day versus Da Bearz.

Now, Seattle had a field day last weekend vs. Chicago, getting to Williams with their blitz schemes. Still, they only won in a snorer, 6-3. The Packers do not and will not blitz anywhere near as much as the Seahawks so they will need to get pressure on Williams with their front four and occasional blitz packages. They can and must do so.

The Prediction

At the time of this writing, the Packers are favored by 10 points. Surprised it isn't more than that. This is a game the Packers should — and will — win. Even with the noon CT kickoff weather conditions in Green Bay those of a typical early January affair, i.e., about 17 degrees at game time and with blustery winds of up to perhaps 23 mph, there is no snow in the forecast at the time of this writing. So the game should favor the running attack and short to medium range passes. Both of which, along with the defensive play, favors the Packers. But, as noted earlier, the Pack need to get up early on Da Bearz. Don't let them hang around. Put them away and don't let up.

We're calling this one Packers 34 - Da Bearz 10.

Go Pack Go!!!

2024 NFL Week 11: Packers vs Bears Preview & Prediction

Coming off the Packers Week 10 Bye, it's now that most special time of the year: Bears Week. Or, more accurately, it has been Bears Week all week, hasn't it? Now, we are on the cusp of the first of the two 2024 regular season games against that NFC North Division rival from south of the (Wisconsin) border: Da Bearz. Eeewww. We know. It is truly the longest-standing rivalry in the NFL, although it may not have felt like it for Chicago fans as Packers head coach Matt LaFleur hasn't yet lost to Da Bearz in his tenure in Green Bay: 10 straight wins. Will that streak continue today? More on that in a bit.

So the Packers have had a chance to get rested, especially one Jordan Love, i.e., the starting quarterback for the Packers. According to him, he stated in interviews he is probably as close to 100 percent as he has been since the opening game where he sustained the MCL sprain in his left knee. After being sidelined with that for two games, as we know, he then sustained a groin injury that has hindered his mobility and accuracy. One could say it has forced him, in his mind, to try to make plays where he shouldn't; i.e., some ill-decided throws which turned into interceptions and points for the opponents. Hopefully, with his body more right his head will be more right as well in his decision-making. The Packers need Love to be more like the second-half of last season Love than the first. That can start today against Da Bearz.

Oh, and during the downtime, Packers GM Brian Gutekunst traded away longtime veteran DE Preston Smith, ostensibly to give some of the younger players more playing time. To be fair, Smith's playing time and impact have been on the downturn this season. So...it was time. Thank you for your service, Mr. Smith. As some pundits speculate, the coaches et al must be seeing something on the part of the young defensive linemen that lead them to conclude they will be just fine moving on from Smith at this time. The end result will hopefully be a reenergized defensive line effort. As Packer fans know all too well, the pass rush in the first half of the season has not been all it should be. Not a lot of sacks. Time to get that turned around. And Da Bearz are just what the doctor ordered after they gave up nine sacks in their most recent game against the Patriots. Chicago's rookie QB, Caleb Williams, may have first-overall-pick talent, but he can't do much if he's lying flat on his back.

Let's get on to a preview of the game, shall we? (Oh, before we go on to the second half of the 2024 season schedule, we should note that in our preseason prediction we had the Packers record at 6-3 at this stage ... in fact, exactly where they currently stand. Well done, us! No applause, just throw money. Thank you.)

A throwback pic: Packers head coach Vince Lombardi and his team before a game against the Bears in 1963 at Wrigley Field in Chicago. Yes, Wrigley Field. The most historic rivalry in the NFL resumes Nov. 17, 2024, at Soldier Field.

(Photo via Milwaukee Journal Sentinel files)

The Preview

Let's start with the Packers. As noted above, the Pack now sits at 6-3. Two of those losses, regrettably, are against division rivals Minnesota and Detroit. So picking up a win in Chicago would be a plus, not only in the division but also in terms of overall NFL standings. Gotta stay in the hunt for the playoffs, if not as winner of the division — which seems possible but not probable at this point — then as a wildcard team.

It's pretty much all hands on deck for the Pack today. The only players ruled out on the latest injury report are rookie RB MarShawn Lloyd and rookie OT Jordan Morgan. Lloyd has not had the rookie season he or the Packers had hoped for when he was selected in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. A twisted ankle early on and then lingering hamstring issues have kept him on the sidelines. It appeared earlier in the week that he would finally be available for this game ... until Friday when he awoke not feeling well. Turned out it was appendicitis. So his return in a few weeks or at all this season is a question mark. Morgan had been making progress and making spot performances. So his absence today is a hit to an already thin offensive line, at least in terms of reliable backups. In fact, the Packers placed Morgan on injured reserve Saturday and elevated CB Robert Rochel to the game-day roster. The other question mark for today is CB Jaire Alexander who is questionable with a lingering knee issue. Other players have this and that and are listed as questionable. DL Colby Wooden, who has been making an impact in spot play, is listed as doubtful.

For Chicago, they'll likely be missing a couple starting offensive linemen again this week, which certainly should help the Packers get to Williams today. DE Montez Sweat is listed as questionable with an ankle injury but we would expect him to play.

Keep in mind that Packers RB Josh Jacobs should help set the tone today. If the Pack can get the running game going early on that should allow coach LaFleur to open up his full offensive scheme, keeping Chicago on their heels. And if defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley can dial up the pressure from his front on Caleb Williams, Green Bay's turnover margin should increase accordingly.

There's been a little bit of smack talk — shocking! — between Packers S Xavier McKinney and Chicago WR DJ Moore. Let's see what comes of that on the field. Our money is on McKinney if push comes to shove ... which it very well might. Stay tuned. 

The bottom line is that Chicago is going nowhere after what seemed like a fast 4-2 start that fizzled as they now find themselves at 4-5 after a three-game losing streak. They fired their offensive coordinator earlier this week. Yeah, like that'll solve Chicago's problems.

The Packers have more weapons and talent on both sides of the ball than Da Bearz. The Pack have the playoffs in front of them. But they must take care of business. And that's what this trip to Chicago today is all about: TCB, as Elvis would say. (And, yes, Elvis has left the building.) Gotta show up and play the game. Do not take Da Bearz for granted.

Will weather play a role in today's game? It may have an impact: both teams may be dealing with some wind and rain today. Winds are forecast at 10-15 mph, while the chance of rain is near 30 percent. Sounds as if this would likely affect kickers more than anything else if both were to come to pass. We don't see this game as coming down to a field goal differential, so weather should not present a major problem.

The Prediction

The Packers are now favored by 5-1/2 points over Chicago at the time of this writing, down from 6-1/2 earlier in the week. Not sure what moved the line other than the oddsmakers figure Da Bearz desperation may lead them to an upset win at home? Not. Going. To. Happen.

The Pack will take care of business today, despite this being — as seemingly always with Chicago — their Super Bowl. According to PFF, with a win today the Packers have an 80 percent chance of making the playoffs; with a loss, that chance drops to 48 percent. We prefer the 80 percent, thank you very much.

And with all due respect to my friend, Billy Da Bearz Fan, who offered a "prediction" of Bearz 19 - Packers 18 ... not ... going ... to ... happen. Jackie Da Bearz Fan's Wife (and Packers fan ... yes, it happens), was much more realistic, offering a prediction of Packers 27 - Bearz 6. That's better. Much better. And why we love Jackie.

We're calling it Packers 30 - Da Bearz 13.

Go Pack Go!!!

2023 NFL Week 18: Regular Season Finale — Packers vs. Bears Preview & Prediction

Happy New Year, everyone!

Here it is Packers fans: the 2023 regular season finale against that team from south of the border. You know. Da Chicago Bearz. As you'll recall, the Pack started the season in Chicago and left with a win in QB Jordan Love's first start. Would be a nice way to bookend the regular season games with another win in Lambeau Field, wouldn't it? And, even better (well, really, is there anything better than beating Chicago?), a win gets the Packers into the playoffs as the number 7 wildcard.

Getting to the playoffs: what a great way to put a highlight on Love's first season as the starter, something neither Brett Favre or Aaron Rodgers was able to do, by the way, in their first seasons as the starter. They managed pretty well anyway overall, but wouldn't this just be the icing on the cake as the Pack seems to have found — again — their franchise quarterback going forward? Indeed. It's been 30 years of misery for NFC Central/North opponents with those 2 under center. May it continue thusly with Mr. Love.

Packers QB Jordan continued the ownership of Da Bearz in

his first meeting with them in the first game of the 2023 season in Chicago.

Fans hope to see that ownership continue in today's game at Lambeau Field.

(Photo via the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Anyway, what does this game look like? Let's see ...

The Preview

Both the Packers and Da Bearz (the latter, believe it or not) come into this game on a bit of a roll. The Pack has certainly been a different team offensively the second half of the season as Love has taken command, complemented, as we know, by a group of gritty and talented first and second-year players at the skill positions. Plus a solid offensive line. It's been impressive. As for the Packers defense ... well, that's been hit and miss. When they miss, as in tackles or coverages, for example, it hasn't been good. Defeats snatched from the jaws of victory in some cases. On the other hand, when they play as they are capable of (as in last weekend's dominant victory against the ViQueens in Minnesota) they can hold their own against any team. Which will show up today?

LATE EDIT: The Packers will NOT have WR Christian Watson available; TE Luke Musgrave is, albeit limited given his recent injury status. There may in fact be 7 wideouts active today, not including the tight ends. (And, hey, what about recently-activated practice squad player WR Bo Melton setting a record in last week's game? Wow.) RB Aaron Jones will have to play a key role in keeping Chicago's top-rated run defense from shutting down that aspect of the game. Unfortunately, RB A. J. Dillon is not active today due to a stinger he sustained in the game against Minnesota so RB Emanuel Wilson was activated off the practice squad. He had actually been performing well before a shoulder injury sidelined him.

On defense, Jaire Alexander is coming off his 1-game suspension and, by all accounts, was perhaps a bit humbled by that experience. He may take out his angst on Chicago's top receiver, D. J. Moore. That would be perfectly appropriate. And helpful. LB De'Vondre Campbell will be active today and that should also help, as long as defensive coordinator Joe Barry doesn't ask him to cover receivers.

The main task for the Packers defense will be keeping Chicago QB Justin Fields from shredding them with his legs. He has admittedly been throwing better in recent games, but if the defense can make him hold the ball (statistically, he holds the ball longer than any other QB) and contain him, they could get sacks and, even better, generate some turnovers. But they better keep Fields from running free or they will be in trouble and the game will be closer than it should otherwise be.

We're not concerned about the Packers offense given what they have demonstrated lately. Love was named the NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his game against the Vikes. He has arrived, arguably, as a legitimate top 5 QB at this point. Not bad for his first season as the starter.

Granted, Chicago's defense is actually playing as well or better than any defense in the league lately, not only against the run but in terms of interceptions. They have been a take-away factory. Now, supposedly their top d-back is out today (remains to be seen) which will help. But with the plethora of weapons the Packers have on offense, and if the O-line can hold up against a good defensive front and create a running lane once in a while, Green Bay should put up points.

The question, as unfortunately we have asked every game this season, is what the defense and special teams will do. Which D will show up today? Will they cover? Will they tackle? Will they keep Fields in check? Will special teams minimize breakdowns and will K Anders Carlson be perfect in his PATs during this game (he has missed 5 this season...not good).

The Prediction

The oddsmakers have the Packers favored by 3 points, the home field advantage. Some are surprised it's not more than that. But, OK, it's seen going in as a close game with the Packers sitting at 8-8 and Da Bearz at 7-9. Got it.

The Packers are playing for the playoffs: win and they're in (but they can still get in, with help, even with a loss). Chicago is playing to be the spoiler, as Detroit was in the final game of last season. They are also playing, perhaps, for Fields' career in Chicago and the survivability of the coaching staff. They already have the number 1 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft, so not much too lose at least in terms of the franchise regardless of whether they win or lose today.

Normally at this time of year, we also start to factor in the weather and how it may impact the game. Here's the current forecast:

• Expected Temperature: Low-30s
• Showers: <10% chance of precipitation
• Wind: 8 mph westerly

So, cold, yes, but snow or rain and winds should not be a factor.

Now, I did request predictions from some of our buddies about today. Gonzo (a loyal Packers fan and PackerFansUnited reader in AZ) says 27-24 Packers. Our token Bearz fans friends are split. Billy Da Bearz Fan says it will be Da Bearz on top 21-19. Stan the Realistic Bearz Fans says, while he hopes it would be 40-0 Bearz, he sees the game going in the Packers favor 28-24.

We're calling it Packers 31 - Bearz 24.

Go Pack Go!!!

2023 NFL Week 1: Packers vs. Bears Preview & Prediction

Here we go ... 

It's always interesting when Packers-Bears week arrives. Especially when it arrives Week 1 of the season. In Chicago. With a new starter QB ... for the Pack. Without a team's top deep-ball threat ... for the Pack. And the youngest (by age) roster in the NFL ... for the Pack. Toss in a coaching regime change ... for Da Bearz. And a new and proven receiving threat ... for Da Bearz. Interesting, indeed.

Packer fans had hoped to see 2nd-year WR Christian Watson stretch

the field against Chicago. Unfortunately, he's been ruled out for Sunday's game.

(Photo by Megan Briggs, Getty Images, via Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

The Preview

You basically got the overview in the paragraph above. The fact of it is: no one really knows — especially in the first game of the season — what either of these teams actually can bring to the field. The Packers feel good about who they are and where they are at, albeit without their deep-ball threat, Watson. It's also possible that second-year WR Romeo Doubs might also be held out of the game, also with a hamstring injury. Taking your top two receivers out of the mix in the first game of the year is not a plus. A-duh. When Packers head coach Matt LaFleur was asked about Watson's absence for this game, he indicated that the team had basically had all week to plan around that. Probably have planned for either limited or no action by Doubs, too. The rookie receivers and tight ends will be called upon to step up. There's talent there, just not the experience you'd like to have out there. It is what it is.

We may expect as a result that there is a heavy reliance on the running game with Aaron Jones and A.J. Dillon called upon to take some of the pressure off the receiving game, although we could likely expect that Jones, especially, may be used in screen and outlet passes. It's going to be interesting to see the adjustments that will be made before and during the game. New starting QB Jordan Love is a confident young man and if he can limit mis-reads in the early going, there may be opportunities to take advantage of Chicago's defense.

Conversely, the Packers defense — with its eight 1st-round draft picks — needs to finally earn its keep. They were highly touted going into last season and were a let down. They played soft and defensive coordinator Joe Barry seemingly was unable or unwilling to make adjustments. The run defense was porous and defensive backs often were not even in the same zipcode as the guys they were supposed to be defending, whether near the line of scrimmage or downfield. Especially with the youth of this team on offense, and whether or not the defense could actually win a game, the defense must contain Chicago QB Justin Fields who can and will run at any time and change the complexion of the game. Chicago management also gave Fields a bona fide receiving threat in DJ Moore who will probably give the Packers secondary fits.

The Prediction

At the time of this writing, the oddsmakers have basically made the game a toss-up (Bears -1). In other words, they really don't have special insights to offer either. The over-under was 43-1/2 points, which seems about right for this game under these circumstances.

Whether the Packers continue their dominance of Da Bearz ... we'll see.

While we wouldn't be surprised to see Chicago pull out a close one, we think the Pack will come out on top .. in a close one.

We're calling it Packers 21 - Bears 20.

Go Pack Go!!!

2022 NFL Week 13: Packers vs. Bears Preview & Prediction

Before we look at this weekend's game in Chicago vs. Da Bearz, let us first pause for a moment of silence for the repose of the soul of the Green Bay Packer defense. It's demise last weekend vs. the Philadelphia Eagles was a true — and embarrassing — exercise in futility. Depending upon who was providing the statistical analysis, there were somewhere around either 15 or 20 missed tackles, many of which were directed toward QB Jalen Hurts, who ran for miles against this inept Packers defense. Oy. What more can you say?

Let's move on to the game at hand.

The Preview

The Packers are sitting at 4-8 while Da Bearz are 3-9. Both teams have their issues, as evidenced by the records. Da Bearz, especially after trading away some their better players, have a woeful defense. But at this stage of the season, and after last weekend's debacle, can we say anything different about the Packers? Not really.

The difference in this game will be the offenses. Chicago has a banged up QB in Justin Fields, who, while not a great passer even when healthy, can still beat you with his legs. In that last regard, it's potentially a Philly deja vu moment if the Packers can't contain him. And tackle. Especially the tackling thing.

Chicago also has a good RB, so there again are problems to be dealt with. Receivers? Meh. On the other hand, if the Pack's secondary continues its defensive scheme of playing opposing receivers as if in a different zip code, that won't work so well even if the team was the Little Sisters of the Poor. With defensive coordinator Joe Barry at the helm, the Packers defense seems uninspired and confused most of the time. Really don't expect that to change in this game. Or the remainder of the season for that matter. Head coach Matt LaFleur has said he sees no reason to change direction with a new coordinator at this stage. Keep digging that same hole deeper, coach.

That leaves it to the Pack's offense to outscore Da Bearz. Now, despite a very banged up QB named Aaron Rodgers at the helm, that should be possible, even probable. And, we can at least feel a bit better if backup QB Jordan Love comes in as he did in last week's game. The kid's got spunk. And an arm. An arm that was quick and accurate in that brief showing. But Rodgers gives the Pack the best chance as long as he can remain upright. Especially against Da Bearz. In Chicago.

The emergence of Packers rookie WR, Christian Watson, has been one

of the bright spots for the Pack over the past few weeks.

If he continues his progress, the Packers should have a good day in Chicago.

(Photo by Eric Hartline, Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports)

Oh, about that last point, about staying upright. We just learned Friday that LT David Bakhtiari had a spur-of-the-moment appendectomy that day. Surprise to him, the coaches, and us. So he's out again for a bit. Figures doesn't it?

But Chicago's defense is not Philly's so Rodgers should still have more time to find his receivers. Of course, he'll be throwing to Rookie of the Month for November, WR Christian Watson. And, it's possible rookie WR Romeo Doubs might also be available, coming off his high ankle sprain injury. Toss in the dependable Allen Lazard and Rodger's best buddy and Bearz destroyer, Randall Cobb, and there should be opportunities to stretch the field and open things up for running backs Aaron Jones and A.J. Dillon. Or vice versa: get that running game going early and often and it could lead to a big day for the receiving corps.

This would be a good time for the Packers to play a nearly complete game. We've been waiting a long time to see that out of this team. The entire season, really. Perhaps going into their bye week, they can finally put things together by putting Da Bearz away. And the earlier the better.

The Prediction

At the time of this writing, the Packers are favored by 3-1/2 points. That doesn't mean much in these rivalry games ... despite the fact that Rodgers has indeed owned Da Bearz for his entire career. It also doesn't mean much give that the Packers have been favored in games more often than not this season only to disappoint fans and pundits alike.

Still, despite the ineptitude of the Packers defense we believe their offense has more weapons available and should be able to outscore Da Bearz.

That's why we're calling this one Packers 31 - Da Bearz 27.

Let us pray ...

Go Pack Go!!!

2022 NFL Week 2: Packers vs. Bears Preview & Prediction

OK, Packer fans ... last week's opener at Minnesota didn't quite turn out the way we hoped...more like the way we feared. As in not ready. (Sigh)

So let's just turn the page on that one, shall we? Instead, as the late Paul Harvey would say, "Page Two...".

Which brings us to the Packers home opener vs Da Bearz this evening in prime time on Sunday Night Football.

Packers QB Aaron Rodgers reflecting on how many ways

he has owned Da Bearz over the course of his career.

(Photo by Dan Powers/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin)

The Preview

Chicago is coming off a slopfest win at home over the 49ers last weekend. Meh. The Packers, as noted, were on the losing end of things vs. the ViQueens. And yet, the Pack are listed as 10-1/2 point favorites at the time of this writing. Sounds about right.

As disjointed as the Packers' offense was last week — with the growing pains of young receivers, a makeshift offensive line, an underperforming defense, etc. — they are still the superior team on the field tonight. As long as they play like it, that is.

For the defense, the Packers should have a bounce-back game after being shredded in their zone pass coverage by Justin Jefferson. Chicago does not have an equivalent, but the d-backs still have to be in at least the same zip code as the receivers to avoid those errors again. The other aspect of the defense that is key tonight is keeping Chicago QB Justin Fields in the pocket. You don't want to let him beat you with his feet, as they say. And that means pressure. Lots of it. While the Pack had some pressure on Minnesota QB Kirk Cousins at times last week, he had too much time to find Jefferson running free. If the Packers can keep contain on Fields, and get to him repeatedly, the Packers will win this game regardless of how much the offense might sputter.

What? The Pack's offense sputter? We don't believe we'll see what we saw last week, regardless of the offensive line makeup. Rodgers will have had another week to get on the same page with his receivers, which should help a bit. But, based upon what head coach Matt LaFleur said after the loss in Minnesota, and all week, expect more touches by the running backs tonight. It has to happen to keep Chicago's defense from just going off on Rodgers the way Minnesota did last week. An indicator, perhaps, of the team's commitment this week to the running game (and passes to the running backs) the team activated RB Patrick Taylor off the practice squad so 3 running backs will be available throughout the game. Good choice. Taylor played a number of games for the Pack last season, knows what to do, and has the trust of the coaches when they call his number.

The expectation is that there will be more balanced run-pass play-calling tonight...more along the lines of what was expected last weekend. If that happens, the young receivers make a few plays, and the defense lives up to its preseason billing, the Packers will get their first win of the 2022 season. And against Da Bearz. Which is always sweet.

The Prediction

As noted above, a number of "ifs" come into play this evening...as with every game, really. The big ones here are: getting past last weekend's season-opening loss; maximizing the energy from the home opener on Sunday night; and channeling the history of the Green Bay - Chicago rivalry.

The pundits have installed the Pack as 10-1/2 point faves, as noted earlier. That should be right, although some are noting that historically these are often slugfests between two old division rivals, regardless of relative talent levels. Regardless ... 

We're calling it Packers 24 - Da Bearz 13.

Go Pack Go!!!