<![CDATA[Tag: Chicago Bears – NBC Sports Chicago]]> https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/tag/chicago-bears/ Copyright 2023 https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/04/NBCChicago-black-xfinity.png?fit=518%2C134&quality=85&strip=all NBC Sports Chicago https://www.nbcsportschicago.com en_US Tue, 12 Dec 2023 13:07:10 -0600 Tue, 12 Dec 2023 13:07:10 -0600 NBC Owned Television Stations How to watch Bears vs. Browns in Week 15 https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-browns-in-week-15/525131/ 525131 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/12/web-231212-justin-fields-myles-garrett.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears are rolling, and they are now hoping to do something they haven’t done in three years.

Justin Fields and Co. have won back-to-back games, defeating the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions to improve to 5-8 on the season and keep their playoff hopes alive. Fields had a passing touchdown and rushing touchdown in Week 13, while the Bears’ defense stifled Jared Goff and the Lions’ offense.

Week 15 offers the Bears a chance to get their first three-game winning streak since 2020. Standing in their way are the Cleveland Browns and a resurgent Joe Flacco.

The Browns are 8-5 and squarely in a crowded AFC playoff picture despite starting four different quarterbacks this season. The 38-year-old Flacco turned back the clock in Week 14, throwing three touchdown passes in a home victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Will the Bears keep up their winning ways, or will the Browns send them back to the loss column? Here is how you can watch the Week 15 Bears-Browns contest.

When is the Bears vs. Browns Week 15 game?

The Bears will visit the Browns at Cleveland Browns Stadium in Cleveland on Sunday, Dec. 17.

What time is the Bears vs. Browns Week 15 game?

Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Browns Week 15

Bears-Lions will air on FOX.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Browns.

How to stream the Bears vs. Browns live online

Free streaming option: FuboTV (free trial)

Live stream: FoxSports.com, NFL+

Mobile app: Fox Sports app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Browns on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Tue, Dec 12 2023 09:21:14 AM
How to watch Bears vs. Lions in Week 14 game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-lions-week-14-game/523062/ 523062 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/12/web-231204-justin-fields-jack-campbell.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears are heading into the home stretch.

Matt Eberflus’ team is fresh off its bye and has five more games before the regular season concludes. It has a 4-8 record, just two games behind the No. 7 seed in the NFC but also good for the No. 5 pick in the projected 2024 NFL Draft order.

The Bears’ race to the finish line begins with a home contest against the Detroit Lions in Week 14. It will be the second matchup between the NFC North foes in just four weeks after the Lions rallied to beat the Bears 31-26 in Week 11.

Detroit leads the NFC North with a 9-3 record after fending off the New Orleans Saints in Week 13. A win in Chicago will bring the team even closer to a division title, something it hasn’t earned since 1993.

Will the Lions sweep the season series, or will the Bears play spoiler? Here is how you can watch this week’s Bears-Lions matchup:

When is the Bears vs. Lions Week 14 game?

The Bears will host the Lions at Soldier Field in Chicago on Sunday, Dec. 10.

What time is the Bears vs. Lions Week 14 game?

Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Lions Week 14

Bears-Lions will air on FOX.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Lions. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Lions live online

Free streaming option: FuboTV (free trial)

Live stream: FoxSports.com, NFL+

Mobile app: Fox Sports app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Lions on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Tue, Dec 05 2023 08:09:12 AM
Bears just did something no NFL team has done in over 50 years https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-just-did-something-no-nfl-team-has-done-in-over-50-years/521532/ 521532 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/11/GettyImages-1817659912.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,207 For the second week in a row, the Chicago Bears did something that hasn’t happened before in the Super Bowl era. This time they were on the right side of history, however.

According to OptaSTATS, the Bears are the first team since the NFL and AFL merged in 1970 to win a game on the road despite losing two fumbles, being penalized for 75+ yards and scoring zero touchdowns. Previously, teams were 0-46 when they put together that trifecta of ineptitude.

The key to the Bears’ win was an incredible defensive effort, a nearly perfect night from Cairo Santos and one particularly clutch throw from Justin Fields.

The defense intercepted Vikings quarterback Josh Dobbs four times in the 12-10 win. Although the Bears only managed to score three points off those turnovers, they kept Vikings points off the board and stymied opportunities for Minnesota to take a commanding lead.

Santos missed his first field goal attempt of the day but shook it off to go 4-for-4 for the rest of the night. Santos scored all 12 of the Bears’ points, including a career-high 55-yarder and the game-winner with under 15 seconds to go in the game.

Finally, Fields made a big-time play to set up a comeback win for the first time this season. His 36-yard strike to DJ Moore on the team’s final offensive drive of the game was the longest play of the day by either side and set the Bears up to kneel three times before Santos’ game-winning kick. It was a rare fourth-quarter drive to seal a game for Fields.

Too many times, the Bears have let wins slip away over the past two seasons. For a moment, it looked like Monday was going to be the same. The Bears failed to capitalize on many opportunities to score points and open up a big lead over the Vikings. Then, they gave up the game’s lone touchdown – and the lead – with just under six minutes to play. If any of those things hadn’t happened, the Bears would’ve likely become the 47th team to lose under the circumstances listed above.

Last week the Bears became the first team in NFL history to lose in regulation after possessing the ball for 40 minutes with a plus-three turnover margin, per ESPN 1000.

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Mon, Nov 27 2023 11:57:25 PM
Bears' win over Vikings sees feat team hasn't achieved in decades https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/bears-win-over-vikings-sees-feat-team-hasnt-achieved-in-decades/521500/ 521500 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/11/GettyImages-1817824583.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 The Chicago Bears won a wild and weird 12-10 decision over the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night, but the victory came in unique fashion.

The Bears weren’t able to score a single touchdown against the Vikings, instead relying on a 4-for-5 performance by kicker Cairo Santos as field goals led them to victory.

According to Pro Football Reference’s Stathead tool, this marks the first time in the 2023 NFL season that a team has won without scoring a touchdown, and marks just the seventh time in the last four seasons that a team has won with only field goals.

It’s been even longer than that since the Bears won a game without finding the endzone. According to Stathead, the Bears had not won a game without scoring a touchdown since Oct. 3, 1993 when they beat the Atlanta Falcons 6-0.

The victory also marks the first time in the entire history of the Bears that they’ve managed to win a game after reaching double digits in points exclusively via field goals.  

The win gives the Bears a 4-8 record heading into their bye week, with their next game coming Dec. 10 against the Lions at Soldier Field.

Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.

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Mon, Nov 27 2023 10:42:40 PM
Live Blog: Vikings scores first touchdown of game, lead 10-9 https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/live-blog-bears-take-on-vikings-with-donta-foreman-others-inactive/521331/ 521331 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/11/USATSI_21984574.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 The Chicago Bears have embarked on another divisional game on Monday night, taking on the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium.

The Bears have had a rough time with the NFC North this season, sporting an 0-3 record so far, and they haven’t won a divisional game in more than two years, with 12 losses in a row since then.

That last win came on Thanksgiving in 2021 when the Bears beat the Detroit Lions at Ford Field. The Bears haven’t beaten the Vikings since Dec. 20, 2020.

Here are the latest headlines from the game.

9:48 p.m.: Justin Fields’ 4th quarter turnovers continue

For the second week in a row, Justin Fields has turned the ball over in a key situation, giving the Vikings back the ball and putting the Bears at risk of losing their 13th straight divisional game

9:44 p.m.: Vikings score first touchdown

The Vikings scored the first touchdown of the game when Josh Dobbs connected with TJ Hockenson. Vikings lead 10-9

9:42 p.m: Ngakoue questionable

NBC Sports Chicago’s Bears Insider Josh Schrock confirms Yannick Ngakoue is questionable to return with cramps.

9:28 p.m.: Bears give it back

Justin Fields is sacked and fumbles the ball. The Vikings recover and get the ball back.

9:25 p.m.: Another INT

The Bears defense picks up their fourth interception as Kyler Gordon makes a slick diving grab. They have taken the ball away four times for the second week in a row.

9:18 p.m.: Santos drills one

Cairo Santos drills a 55-yard field goal to make it 9-3 Bears

9:13 p.m.: End of 3rd

Bears lead the Vikings at the end of the third quarter 6-3.

Justin Fields: 21/28 CP/ATT, 155 YDS, 0 INT, 0 TD

Josh Dobbs: 14/22 CP/ATT, 88 YDS, 3 INT, 0 TD

9:08 p.m.: Another Dobbs Interception

The Bears’ defense is putting in work today. TJ Edwards picks off Josh Dobbs for the third time. This is Josh Dobbs’ first career three-interception game

8:58 p.m.: Santos gives Bears lead

On the Bears’ 3rd-and-2 and Luke Getsy busts out another screen (eye roll) for a gain of 0 yards. Cairo Santos hits a 32-yard field goal. Bears lead 6-3.

8:49 p.m.: Vikings go for it and miss

It was 4th-and-7 from midfield and the Vikings go for it. Kyler Gordon makes an exceptional tackle to keep TJ Hockenson from getting the first down. Turnover on downs. Bears offense takes the field

8:32 p.m.: Halftime – Bears 3, Vikings 3

Just before the half, Vikings kicker Greg Joseph knocks through a 34-yard field goal try.

Justin Fields: 17/22 CP/ATT, 135 YDS, 0 INT, 0 TD

Josh Dobbs: 8/14 CP/ATT, 64 YDS, 2 INT, 1 TD

The Bears are also dominating time of possession, 19:47 to 10:13, and total yards, 158 to 76.

8:19 p.m.: Teven Jenkins back in

Teven Jenkins returned to the game on the Bears’ fifth offensive drive. Cody Whitehair briefly took over at left guard when Jenkins left with an apparent injury during Monday night’s game.

8:05 p.m.: Jaquan Brisker Interception

Jaquan Brisker picked up his first interception of the season on this tipped Josh Dobbs pass.

8:00 p.m.: Kyler Gordon called for taunting

Kyler Gordon picked up a penalty in Monday’s game against the Minnesota Vikings, but we’d have to say he did so in truly rare fashion.

8:02 p.m.: Cody Whitehair in for Teven Jenkins

After he was benched as the team’s starting center, Cody Whitehair is back in for the Bears after Teven Jenkins appeared to suffer an injury during Monday’s game.

He entered the game at left guard for the Bears’ third offensive drive of the game. Jenkins appeared to injure himself while blocking on a Cairo Santos field goal attempt. Jenkins lay on the ground while trainers attended to him after the play, but Jenkins walked off the field under his own power.

Whitehair started the season as the team’s starting center, but moved to left guard ahead of Week 1 when Jenkins went on injured reserve with a calf injury. When Jenkins got healthy, the Bears moved Whitehair back to center, but the team benched him in favor of Lucas Patrick due to a series of bad snaps.

It’s unclear what injury Jenkins may have sustained.

7:50 p.m.: Jaylon Johnson interception

Jaylon Johnson picks off Josh Dobbs in the second quarter of the game to end the drive.

7:48 p.m.: Teven Jenkins injured on Bears’ field goal

The Bears may have suffered a tough injury in the second quarter of the game, as Teven Jenkins suffered an injury on Cairo Santos’ go-ahead field goal.

7:35 p.m.: Montez Sweat makes immediate impact

It took a whopping three plays for defensive end Montez Sweat to make an impact in Monday’s game, taking down Josh Dobbs on a third down play:

6:54 p.m.: Ryan Poles spoke to Matt Eberflus about Montez Sweat’s snap count

Chicago Bears general manager Ryan Poles says that he spoke to head coach Matt Eberflus about his usage of defensive end Montez Sweat following last week’s loss to the Detroit Lions.

During an interview on ESPN 1000, Poles revealed that he had a conversation with the coach about Sweat and the team’s other impact players, emphasizing that they needed to be on the field in key situations.

“My big thing is just in critical moments having players on the field that can impact the game. We’ve had conversations about that,” he said.

According to Pro Football Focus, Sweat was on the field for 39 snaps for the Bears against the Lions. That number represents 63% of the team’s total defensive snaps in the game.

D’Onta Foreman out, Velus Jones in for Bears vs. Vikings

The Bears’ inactive list is officially out, and while D’Onta Foreman will be out, Bears wide receiver Velus Jones will be back in for the first time in three weeks.

Also inactive for the Bears are defensive backs Quindell Johnson and Tyrique Stevenson. Offensive lineman Larry Borom, defensive lineman Dominique Robinson and linebacker Noah Sewell are also out, as is quarterback Nathan Peterman.

Justin Jefferson out for Vikings vs. Bears

The Bears will not have to deal with wide receiver Justin Jefferson on Monday night, as the Vikings will not have him on the field for the contest.

Jefferson has been out of action since Oct. 8 when he suffered a hamstring injury, and the Vikings ruled him out for Monday’s game just hours before kickoff.

Jefferson is expected to rejoin the team after their by week.

How key Bears rookies can turn Lions meltdown into long-term rebuild positive

The Bears outplayed the NFC North-leading Lions for 54 minutes. They pushed them around and were on the verge of the first signature win of the Matt Eberlfus era. That everything unraveled in six minutes showed the warts of this rebuild and should lead to some difficult conversations about its direction.

The Bears are past the point of moral victories. They need to win games in which they outplay their opponent. There are no more excuses for a lack of execution in critical moments.

But as demoralizing as the Motown Meltdown was, it can be a force for good as the Bears project forward, as Insider Josh Schrock explains.

Luke Getsy’s defense of calls vs. Lions says a lot about Justin Fields, Bears’ offense

For three quarters in Detroit, Justin Fields and the Bears’ offense were clicking.

However, during the fourth quarter, the plan of attack got conservative and kept the door open for the Lions to make a 12-point comeback with under five minutes to play.

Here’s how Josh Schrock saw the change in play-calling, and what the Bears can adjust moving forward.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

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Mon, Nov 27 2023 05:55:40 PM
Chicago Bears' schedule: Here are the team's final six games https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/chicago-bears-schedule-here-are-the-teams-final-six-games/520455/ 520455 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/05/Chicago-Bears-Helmet.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 Somehow, the Chicago Bears are nearly two-thirds of the way through their 2023 season, and while they won’t be in action this Sunday, they still have a date with the Minnesota Vikings coming up.

The NFL will play games on Thanksgiving, with the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers both playing in the morning time slot, and the league will also have a Black Friday game between the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins, but none of those contests will involve the Bears.

Instead, the team will take the field again at U.S. Bank Stadium on Monday against the Minnesota Vikings.

Following that, the Bears will finally have their bye week before resuming their season with three of their next four games at Soldier Field.

Here is the Bears’ remaining schedule:

Nov. 27: at Minnesota 7:15 p.m. ABC/ESPN

Dec. 10: vs. Detroit 12 p.m. Fox

Dec. 17: at Cleveland TBD

Dec. 24: vs. Arizona 3:25 p.m. Fox

Dec. 31: vs. Atlanta 12 p.m. CBS

Jan. 7: at Green Bay TBD

The NFL can still flex the Bears’ final game of the regular season to Saturday, with the decision coming no later than New Year’s Day, according to the league.

Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.

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Tue, Nov 21 2023 07:55:54 PM
How to watch Bears vs. Vikings in Week 12 Monday Night Football game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-vikings-in-week-12-monday-night-football-game-2/521272/ 521272 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/11/web-231120-justin-fields-harrison-smith.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears will try to bounce back from a brutal divisional contest with another NFC North showdown coming up in Week 12.

Justin Fields and Co. will head to Minnesota to face the Vikings on Monday Night Football with both teams coming off close losses.

The Bears took command against the division-leading Detroit Lions in Week 11. They went ujp 26-14 with 4:15 left in the game before surrendering 17 unanswered points over the final three minutes for a crushing defeat that dropped their record to 3-8.

Meanwhile, the Vikings saw their five-game winning streak come to an end in primetime. Joshua Dobbs got his first loss with Minnesota as the team fell 21-20 to Russell Wilson and the Broncos on Sunday Night Football.

The Vikings beat the Bears in a Week 6 matchup in Chicago. Can the Bears avoid the season sweep to their divisional rival?

Here is everything to know to watch Bears-Vikings on Monday Night Football.

When is the Bears vs. Vikings Monday Night Football game?

The Bears will face the Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis on Monday, Nov. 27.

What time is the Bears vs. Vikings Monday Night Football game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Vikings is set for 7:15 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Vikings on Monday Night Football

Bears-Vikings will air on ESPN and ABC with Joe Buck (play-by-play), Troy Aikman (analyst) and Lisa Salters (sideline) on the call. There will not be a ManningCast for Bears-Vikings.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Vikings. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Vikings Monday Night Football live online

Free streaming option: FuboTV (free trial)

Live stream: ESPN.com, ESPN+

Mobile app: ESPN app

How to listen to Bears vs. Vikings Monday Night Football on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Tue, Nov 21 2023 10:22:07 AM
How to watch Bears vs. Vikings in Week 12 Monday Night Football game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-vikings-in-week-12-monday-night-football-game/520056/ 520056 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/11/web-231120-justin-fields-harrison-smith.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears will try to bounce back from a brutal divisional contest with another NFC North showdown coming up in Week 12.

Justin Fields and Co. will head to Minnesota to face the Vikings on Monday Night Football with both teams coming off close losses.

The Bears took command against the division-leading Detroit Lions in Week 11. They went ujp 26-14 with 4:15 left in the game before surrendering 17 unanswered points over the final three minutes for a crushing defeat that dropped their record to 3-8.

Meanwhile, the Vikings saw their five-game winning streak come to an end in primetime. Joshua Dobbs got his first loss with Minnesota as the team fell 21-20 to Russell Wilson and the Broncos on Sunday Night Football.

The Vikings beat the Bears in a Week 6 matchup in Chicago. Can the Bears avoid the season sweep to their divisional rival?

Here is everything to know to watch Bears-Vikings on Monday Night Football.

When is the Bears vs. Vikings Monday Night Football game?

The Bears will face the Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis on Monday, Nov. 27.

What time is the Bears vs. Vikings Monday Night Football game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Vikings is set for 7:15 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Vikings on Monday Night Football

Bears-Vikings will air on ESPN and ABC with Joe Buck (play-by-play), Troy Aikman (analyst) and Lisa Salters (sideline) on the call. There will not be a ManningCast for Bears-Vikings.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Vikings. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Vikings Monday Night Football live online

Free streaming option: FuboTV (free trial)

Live stream: ESPN.com, ESPN+

Mobile app: ESPN app

How to listen to Bears vs. Vikings Monday Night Football on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Tue, Nov 21 2023 10:21:26 AM
Nobody in NFL history has ever done what the Bears did in their loss to the Lions https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/nobody-in-nfl-history-has-ever-done-what-the-bears-did-in-their-loss-to-the-lions/519928/ 519928 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/11/Matt-Eberflus-Getty.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 In sports media, terms like “historic win,” or “generational talent,” get thrown around so much that they begin to lose their real meaning. We all do it. It’s OK. Sports are exciting and hyperbole is part of the fun.

But the Bears lost to the Lions in truly historic fashion on Sunday. As in they did something that no other NFL team has ever done before, per ESPN 1000.

The Bears did almost everything right for three and a half quarters. They followed their script to win a game: run the ball well on offense, take the ball away on defense. Justin Fields was electric in his return and made huge plays both with his arm and his legs. It was as dominant of a performance as the Bears could have hoped for on the road against the class of the NFC North.

It all came crumbling down for another disappointing loss as the Lions scored 17 unanswered points in the final four minutes of the game.

Where did it all go wrong? Was conservative playcalling to blame? Or the inability to make a stop on defense with the game on the line? Did the Bears doom themselves by not capitalizing on every single opportunity the Lions gave them to put points on the board, or take points away? Do the Bears need to learn how to win, or is Eberflus’ H.I.T.S. program insufficient for building a winning program? Does the team not have enough talent, and is the talent on the field executing at a high enough rate?

These are the questions folks will debate all week, just as they’ve been debated many weeks prior. Whatever the reason for the numerous disappointing losses, it’s clear the Bears simply aren’t good enough to beat quality teams without playing absolutely perfectly.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

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Sun, Nov 19 2023 07:01:05 PM
How to watch Bears vs. Lions Week 11 game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-lions-week-11-game/518538/ 518538 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/11/web-231113-jared-goff-bears.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears are hitting the road again, and this time they’re visiting the leaders of the NFC North.

Matt Eberflus’ squad will head to Detroit for a matchup against the division-leading Lions in Week 11.

Chicago is coming off a 16-13 victory over the Carolina Panthers that strengthened their odds of getting the No. 1 overall pick in 2024. D’Onta Foreman scored the team’s lone touchdown, Tyson Bagent took care of the football and the Bears’ defense suffocated Bryce Young and the Panthers’ offense.

Now, the Bears will face a team that’s not only eyeing an NFC North title, but perhaps the No. 1 seed in the NFC. Dan Campbell’s Lions are 7-2 on the year following their dramatic victory over the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 10. Detroit is chasing its first division crown in 30 years, and a win over their longtime foes would bring them one step closer to that goal.

Can the Bears win consecutive games for the first time since 2021, or will they fall to 3-8 on the year? Here is how you can watch this week’s Bears-Lions matchup:

When is the Bears vs. Lions Week 11 game?

The Bears will face the Lions at Ford Field in Detroit on Sunday, Nov. 19.

What time is the Bears vs. Lions Week 11 game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Lions is set for 12 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Lions Week 11

Bears-Lions will air on FOX.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Lions. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Lions live online

Free streaming option: FuboTV (free trial)

Live stream: FoxSports.com, NFL+

Mobile app: Fox Sports app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Lions on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Tue, Nov 14 2023 09:19:38 AM
How to watch Bears vs. Panthers Week 10 Thursday Night Football game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-panthers-week-10-thursday-night-football-game/517014/ 517014 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/11/web-231106-bryce-young-dj-moore.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears are back under the bright lights of Thursday Night Football.

Matt Eberflus’ team will welcome the Carolina Panthers to Soldier Field to kick off Week 10 following a 24-17 road loss to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. As the two sides officially begin the second half of the 2023 season, their pre-draft trade will enter the limelight once again.

The Bears traded the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 draft to the Panthers for wide receiver D.J. Moore, the No. 9 overall pick, a 2023 second-round pick, a 2024 first-round pick and a 2025 second-round pick. Moore has been a bright spot for Chicago’s offense, and now he will get a chance to square off against his former team.

On the other side, the Panthers used the first overall selection on Bryce Young, who has experienced a bumpy rookie season. Carolina is off to a 1-7 start after Young threw a career-high three interceptions defeat against the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.

If the season ended after Week 9, the Bears would own the No. 2 and No. 3 picks in the 2024 draft, with the former coming from the Panthers in the aforementioned trade. Regardless of Thursday’s result, one of the picks will improve, while the other moves in the other direction.

Here is how you can tune into Thursday Night Football between the Bears and Panthers:

When is the Bears vs. Panthers Thursday Night Football game?

The Bears will host the Panthers at Soldier Field in Chicago on Thursday, Nov. 9.

What time is the Bears vs. Panthers Thursday Night Football game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Panthers is set for 7:15 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Panthers on Thursday Night Football

Bears-Panthers will air on Amazon Prime Video. Al Michaels (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (analyst) and Kaylee Hartung (sideline) are on the call. People in the Chicago area can also watch the game on WFLD.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Panthers

How to stream the Bears vs. Panthers live online

Live stream: Prime Video, NFL+

Mobile stream: Prime Video app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Panthers on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

What is the weather forecast for Bears vs. Panthers on Thursday Night Football?

NBC Chicago forecasts cloudy skies, a high temperature of 54 degrees, a low temperature of 36 degrees and a 9% chance of rain in Chicago on Thursday.

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Mon, Nov 06 2023 10:25:43 AM
Chicago Bears agree to massive deal for Montez Sweat ahead of trade deadline https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/chicago-bears-reportedly-agree-to-massive-deal-for-montez-sweat-ahead-of-trade-deadline/515690/ 515690 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/05/Montez-Sweat-WFT-USATSI_16990588.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Bears have agreed to a trade to bolster their pass rush. A source confirmed to NBC Sports Chicago that the team acquired defensive end Montez Sweat from the Washington Commanders in exchange for a second-round pick.

Sweat is one of the premier pass rushers in the game and will help the Bears defensive line, which has struggled to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks. Sweat has 6.5 sacks, 10 TFLs and has forced two fumbles this season. Meanwhile, every defensive line player on the Bears has combined for 6.5 sacks, 21 TFLs and one forced fumble this year. Yannick Ngakoue leads the group with two sacks.

Sweat is playing in his fifth NFL season now and has 35.5 career sacks, 47 TFLs and nine forced fumbles. At times Sweat benefited from rushing opposite the uber-talented DE Chase Young. However, when Young has missed time due to injury, Sweat has still produced at a high level. There’s no reason to believe Sweat won’t be able to maintain that production working opposite Ngakoue now.

Defensive end was a position of need heading into this season since the Bears ranked last in the NFL with 20 sacks in 2022. GM Ryan Poles tried to address the issue by signing Ngakoue, DeMarcus Walker and Rasheem Green over the offseason, but it wasn’t enough to make progress. After eight games the Bears rank dead last in the NFL again, with 10 sacks. That includes all the teams who have already had their bye weeks and have only played seven games. Acquiring Sweat now is an emphatic move to bolster the unit.

Sweat is playing on the last year of his rookie contract right now- the Commanders picked up his fifth-year option back in 2022- so if the Bears want to keep him around long term, they’ll have to sign him to a new deal. Since Sweat was set to hit the open market after this season trading for him now sends a message that the team is trying to win now, not tank for a higher draft pick. It also could give Poles a leg up on reaching a long-term deal with Sweat. The Bears will now have a chance to offer him a contract extension before he becomes a free agent.

According to Spotrac, the Bears have $95.7 million dollars in cap space in 2024, which is the most in the league.

Poles is no stranger to splashy deadline moves. Last season, he made several franchise-altering trades including the decision to send Roquan Smith to the Ravens in exchange for a second-round pick and the decision to acquire Chase Claypool from the Steelers in exchange for a second-round pick.

The trade deadline ends at 3 p.m. on Tuesday.

Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.

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Tue, Oct 31 2023 10:56:32 AM
How to watch Bears vs. Saints Week 9 game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-saints-week-9-game/515511/ 515511 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/web-231030-cameron-jordan-cole-kmet.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears are headed to the bayou.

Matt Eberflus’ squad will take on the New Orleans Saints in Week 9 as it crosses the midway point of the 2023 season.

The Bears fell to 2-6 this season with their 30-13 Sunday Night Football defeat against the Los Angeles Chargers. Tyson Bagent, making the first road start of his NFL career, and the Bears’ defense were no match for Justin Herbert and the Chargers’ electric offense.

Speaking of electric offense, Saints are coming off their highest-scoring game of 2023. They beat the Colts 38-27 behind two touchdowns from Alvin Kamara and two more from Taysom Hill, bringing their record to 4-4 on the year.

Here is how you can watch this week’s Bears-Saints matchup:

When is the Bears vs. Saints Week 9 game?

The Bears will face the Saints at Caesars Superdome on Sunday, Nov. 5.

What time is the Bears vs. Saints Week 9 game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Saints is set for 12 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Saints Week 9

Bears-Saints will air on CBS.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Saints. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Saints live online

Free streaming option: FuboTV (free trial)

Live stream: Paramount+, NFL+

Mobile app: Paramount+ app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Saints on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Tue, Oct 31 2023 10:38:29 AM
Jaylon Johnson requests trade from Bears: NFL rumors https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/nfl-rumors-jaylon-johnson-requests-trade-from-bears/515640/ 515640 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/USATSI_19648204-e1698727717779.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 One of the NFL’s most talented youngsters is now seemingly on the trading block.

Chicago Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson reportedly requested a trade early Tuesday morning, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported, citing a source.

The report added that Chicago granted permission to find a new home for Johnson, who is in the final year of a four-year deal he signed as a rookie.

Both sides reportedly attempted to negotiate an extension last week, but nothing materialized, putting the 24-year-old on the market.

A second-round pick in 2020, Johnson has steadily developed into a standout starter for a Bears team that has had to let go of promising talents the last few years due to on-field struggles.

General manager Ryan Poles commented on Johnson’s situation as recently as Sunday.

“We’re in a phase where we want to retain homegrown talent,” Ryan Poles said on ESPN 1000 before Sunday night’s game versus the Los Angeles Chargers. “That’s important. But again, it takes two sides to make something happen, so we’ll see if that works out.”

Teams don’t like to target Johnson’s side that often, yet he’s logged two picks (one returned for a touchdown), four passes defended and a forced fumble.

The trade deadline is set for 3 p.m. CT Tuesday, so the loss to Los Angeles might’ve been Johnson’s last time donning the Chicago blue and orange — unless things change.

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Tue, Oct 31 2023 12:07:09 AM
How to watch Bears vs. Chargers on Sunday Night Football https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-chargers-on-sunday-night-football/514278/ 514278 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/web-231023-bears-chargers-split.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 Sunday Night Football is headed to Inglewood.

The Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Chargers will battle in primetime as both teams look to get back in the playoff mix.

The Bears are coming off a convincing victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 7. Tyson Bagent made his first career NFL start in place of Justin Fields and D’Onta Foreman went off for three touchdowns in a 30-12 drubbing that brought the team to 2-5 on the year.

The Chargers, meanwhile, have dropped back-to-back games against potential contenders to fall to 2-4. Justin Herbert and Co. followed up their Monday Night Football defeat against the Dallas Cowboys with a 31-17 road defeat against Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and the Chiefs in Kansas City.

Which team will shine under the bright lights? Here is how you can watch this week’s Sunday Night Football matchup:

When is the Bears vs. Chargers Sunday Night Football game?

The Bears will face the Chargers at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, Calif., on Sunday, Oct. 29.

What time is the Bears vs. Chargers Sunday Night Football game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Chargers is set for 7:20 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Chargers on Sunday Night Football

Bears-Chargers will air on NBC. Mike Tirico (play-by-play), Cris Collinsworth (analyst), Melissa Stark (sideline) and Terry McAulay (rules analyst) will be on the call for the game and for Sunday Night Football throughout the 2023 season.

Pregame coverage begins at 6 p.m. CT with Football Night in America as Maria Taylor, Jason Garrett, Devin McCourty, Chris Simms, Tony Dungy, Rodney Harrison, Mike Florio, Matthew Berry and Jac Collinsworth get you ready for the game. 

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Chargers. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Chargers Sunday Night Football live online

Fans can stream Bears-Chargers on Peacock and NBC.com.

How to listen to Bears vs. Chargers on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

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Tue, Oct 24 2023 08:30:20 AM
Zach LaVine is salty after watching Raiders lose to Bears at Soldier Field https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nba/chicago-bulls/bulls-news/zach-lavine-is-salty-after-watching-raiders-lose-to-bears-at-soldier-field/514383/ 514383 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/GettyImages-1250879356.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 Zach LaVine took a couple of his teammates on a field trip to Soldier Field on Sunday to watch the Las Vegas Raiders, his favorite team, take on the Chicago Bears.

The two-time All-Star gave a cheeky answer when Bulls Insider K.C. Johnson asked him about the Raiders 30-12 loss to the Bears in Week 7.

“Don’t talk to me about that K.C.,” Lavine said. “Glad that the Bears won another game, just really mad it was against my Raiders.”

LaVine said he took Coby White and Jevon Carter along for the outing.

“Got to sit between two Chicago guys, and they got to talk mess to me all game, and it was great,” he said.

Click here to follow the Bulls Talk Podcast.

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Mon, Oct 23 2023 07:01:53 PM
Tyson the Rapper? Bears teammates dish on Bagent's swag https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/tyson-the-rapper-bears-teammates-dish-on-bagents-swag/513574/ 513574 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/GettyImages-1737651753.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 As Chicago and the NFL world slowly gets to know Tyson Bagent, people are starting to realize the undrafted free agent rookie quarterback has a bit of swag to him. Bagent showed poise earlier in the preseason, and again during the Bears’ Week 6 loss to the Vikings.

The emergence of a swaggy QB2 from Shepherd University was a surprise to some. After all, not many expect UDFA QBs from D-II schools to make much noise in the NFL. It was no surprise to the Bears, though. They’ve known about Bagent’s moxie for quite some time.

“You could see it when he first walked in, he’s just real cool,” said fellow rookie Tyler Scott. “He’s got the arm sleeve, the hair, he’s got the backwards hat with the hair hanging out, got the Dan Marino look. He’s just got that ‘it’ to him in terms of his personality, he’s got that swagger that he walks around with. I could see it when I first met him. I saw him walk through the door and was like, ‘This dude, he’s cool. I can have a real conversation with him.’”

“Everybody’s got their own little drip, you know what I mean?” said Darnell Wright. “He’s got his own little drip. He do what he do, he’s a pretty cool cat.”

The Internet got a taste of that swag on Monday when “Highly Disputed,” a podcast that focuses on Shepherd athletics, posted this video purportedly showing Bagent rapping at a karaoke bar. 

Note, the video has explicit lyrics.

For what it’s worth, when Bagent was shown the video after practice on Wednesday he cracked a smile and said it wasn’t him. His teammates were split between, “Yeah, that’s definitely him,” and, “I don’t know, the video’s kinda blurry but it for sure looks like him.”

Velus Jones might have said it best though: “Get outta here. Oh snap! That’s Emimen’s brother, they got separated at birth. I didn’t know Tyson was related to Eminem, that’s crazy.”

Again, if that was in fact Bagent in the video, his Bears teammates aren’t surprised. Again, they’ve seen it before. Throughout the Bears locker room, players recalled Bagent bringing the house down with a rap during the rookie talent show back in training camp. According to Scott, there was a standing ovation after the performance.

“Everybody was, ‘Ok, he’s actually got some bars. He got a little something to him,’” Scott said.

“A couple people were yelling ‘B-Rabbit,’” said Tyrique Stevenson, in reference to Eminem’s character in the movie “8 Mile.”

“Tyson had some ill rhymes,” said Jones.

Wright claimed he stole the rookie talent show and seems to have a more discerning taste in rappers. He was the only person to offer any critiques for Bagent’s performance.

“You know the delivery could’ve been a little better, but he got the words down. He did good. I’m not hating.”

That swag gives the Bears confidence that Bagent will have no problems handling the pressure that comes with a first NFL start.

Stevenson noticed Bagent’s confidence before the two became teammates, at the Senior Bowl. Stevenson wanted jersey No. 7 but Bagent got it, which left Stevenson with No. 8. So Stevenson tuned in to see what Bagent could do in the jersey that he wanted to wear.

“His throws was pretty much great. In one-on-ones he was making a lot of throws. When he went out there and played against us he was calm, cool and collected just like he is now. It really seems like nothing fazes him.”

Bagent says that confidence comes from the preparation he puts in to continue improving as a quarterback and from his family’s support. If Justin Fields can’t play against the Raiders due to his dislocated thumb, we’ll get to see how that confidence translates to the Bears offense for a full 60 minutes.

Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

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Wed, Oct 18 2023 05:53:51 PM
How to watch Bears vs. Raiders Week 7 game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-raiders-week-7-game/513305/ 513305 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/web-231017-dj-moore-davante-adams.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears are running out of time to turn their season around, and they will be desperate for a win at home against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 7.

Following their first win of the season against the Washington Commanders, the Bears had extra time to prepare for their divisional duel against the Minnesota Vikings. That NFC North matchup resulted in a loss – in more ways than one.

The Bears lost 19-13 at home in a game that Justin Fields exited due to a hand injury. Tyson Bagent entered in relief and helped keep the team within striking distance, but the Vikings left Chicago at 2-4 while pushing the Bears to 1-5 on the year.

Turning to Week 7, the Raiders will make their first visit to Soldier Field since 2015. They also lost their starting quarterback mid-game last week as Jimmy Garoppolo was transported to the hospital with a back injury. Unlike the Bears, however, the Raiders earned a 21-17 victory over the New England Patriots.

Can the Bears get back in the win column, or will they remain winless at home in 2023? Here is how you can watch this week’s Bears-Raiders matchup:

When is the Bears vs. Raiders Week 7 game?

The Bears will face the Raiders at Soldier Field in Chicago on Sunday, Oct. 22.

What time is the Bears vs. Raiders Week 7 game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Raiders is set for 12 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Raiders Week 7

Bears-Raiders will air on FOX.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Raiders. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Raiders live online

Free streaming option: FuboTV (free trial)

Live stream: FoxSports.com, NFL+

Mobile app: Fox Sports app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Raiders on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Tue, Oct 17 2023 08:01:11 AM
How to watch Bears vs. Vikings Week 6 game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-vikings-week-6-game/511903/ 511903 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/web-231009-justin-fields-jordan-hicks.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears are in the win column, and now they are eyeing their first winning streak of 2023.

The team snapped a 14-game skid dating back to last season when they steamrolled the Washington Commanders on Thursday Night Football. DJ Moore shined under the bright lights, picking up career-highs with 230 receiving yards and three touchdowns in the 40-20 victory.

Now, the Bears will look to keep their momentum going against a divisional foe.

The Minnesota Vikings sit next to the Bears at the bottom of the NFC North standings. Kirk Cousins and Co. hung around with the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs in Week 5 but settled for a 27-20 defeat. They will also be down their best player for at least the next month, as Justin Jefferson reportedly is headed to injured reserve.

Can the Bears move ahead of the Vikings in the standings, or will they fall to 1-5 on the year? Here is how you can watch this week’s Bears-Vikings matchup:

When is the Bears vs. Vikings Week 6 game?

The Bears will face the Vikings at Soldier Field in Chicago on Sunday, Oct. 15.

What time is the Bears vs. Vikings Week 6 game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Vikings is set for 12 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Vikings Week 6

Bears-Vikings will air on FOX.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Vikings. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Vikings live online

Free streaming option: FuboTV (free trial)

Live stream: FoxSports.com, NFL+

Mobile app: Fox Sports app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Vikings on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Tue, Oct 10 2023 09:37:27 AM
Vikings' Justin Jefferson expected to land on IR and miss Bears matchup, per report https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/vikings-justin-jefferson-expected-to-land-on-ir-and-miss-bears-matchup-per-report/512035/ 512035 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/web-231010-justin-jefferson.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Minnesota Vikings will be without their best player for at least four games as they look to turn their season around.

Star wide receiver Justin Jefferson is headed to injured reserve due to a hamstring injury he suffered against the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, per NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero.

By landing on IR, Jefferson will miss at least four games. The Vikings’ upcoming schedule includes a road game against the Chicago Bears in Week 6, a home Monday Night Football game against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 7, a visit to Green Bay in Week 8 and a trip to Atlanta in Week 9. Jefferson will be able to return for the team’s Week 10 home contest against the New Orleans Saints.

Jefferson has gotten off to a record-setting start to his NFL career since being selected by the Vikings in the 2020 draft. He is already a three-time Pro Bowler and was named to his first AP All-Pro first team in 2022 after leading the NFL with 128 receptions and 1,809 receiving yards.

The 24-year-old hauled in 36 receptions for 571 yards and three touchdowns across the Vikings’ first five games in 2023. He exited Sunday’s 27-20 loss to the Chiefs in the fourth quarter due to the injury and did not return.

Minnesota is 1-4 on the year and tied with the Bears for last place in the NFC North.

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Tue, Oct 10 2023 08:06:56 AM
Was Bears' Dick Butkus the greatest NFL linebacker ever? https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/was-bears-dick-butkus-the-greatest-nfl-linebacker-ever/511649/ 511649 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/GettyImages-82064317-e1696630568916.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=198,300 They don’t make ’em like Dick Butkus anymore.

The Chicago Bears legend died Thursday at 80, generating a wave of recognition across the NFL and sports world as one of the best to ever do it.

He was as feared as linebackers get roaming the interior of defenses, and his accolades validate that. Butkus, who played from 1965 to 1973, finished his career with: eight All-Pro selections (five to the first team), eight Pro Bowls, two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1969, 1970), Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978 and NFL 100 All-Time Team (2019).

There’s a reason why the Butkus Award, instituted in 1985, is given to the top-performing linebackers at the high school, collegiate and professional levels.

But is Butkus the best linebacker of all time? That’s something football fans can certainly debate, but while we’re on the topic, let’s revisit some of the best in the position in NFL history:

Who is the best middle linebacker of all time?

Butkus doesn’t have to be first on your list, but he arguably should slot in somewhere around Nos. 3 to 5. These players deserve a mention as the best middle linebackers of all time, in no particular order:

Dick Butkus, Chicago Bears (1965-1973): Eight All-Pro selections (five to the first team), eight Pro Bowls, two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1969, 1970), Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1978 and NFL 100 All-Time Team (2019)

Ray Lewis, Baltimore Ravens (1996-2012): Two-time Super Bowl champion (XXXV, XLVII), 13-time Pro Bowler, seven-time First-Team All-Pro, two-time Defensive Player of the Year (2000, 2003)

Mike Singletary, Chicago Bears (1981-1992): Super Bowl XX champion, 10-time Pro Bowler, seven-time First-Team All-Pro, two-time Defensive Player of the Year (1985, 1988), Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998

Junior Seau, San Diego Chargers/Miami Dolphins/New England Patriots (1990-2009): 12-time Pro Bowler, six-time First-Team All-Pro, Defensive Player of the Year (1992), Walter Payton Man of the Year (1994)

Jack Lambert, Pittsburgh Steelers (1974-1984): Four-time Super Bowl champion (IX, X, XIII, XIV), nine-time Pro Bowler, six-time First-Team All-Pro, Defensive Rookie of the Year (1974), Defensive Player of the Year (1976), Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990

Who is the best defensive player in football history?

There will also be debates here, but it’s hard to not name anyone other than Lawrence Taylor. The New York Giants icon, who played from 1981 to 1993, won two Super Bowls (XXI, XXV) along with being a 10-time All-Pro, 10-time Pro Bowler, Defensive Rookie of the Year, three-time Defensive Player of the Year (1981, 1982, 1986), Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1999 and the NFL 100 All-Time Team (2019).

L.T. was also the league MVP in 1986, making him the last defensive player to do so in what is usually an award for quarterbacks. Only Alan Page in 1971 is the other defensive player on the list.

Taylor made the outside linebacker position his own and even succeeded inside after injuries reduced his strengths. He responded as L.T. would, recording seven straight seasons of double-digit sacks and has 132.5 in his career, ranking No. 13 all time. He posted 20.5 sacks in 1986 alone en route to MVP honors.

Was Dick Butkus the greatest Bear in history?

The Bears have their fair share of legendary players, and it’s probably more of a personal preference to claim who is the greatest in franchise history.

Along with Butkus and fellow dominant linebacker Singletary, other memorable Bears include running backs Walter Payton and Gale Sayers, tight end Mike Ditka and versatile players in Sid Luckman and Bronco Nagurski, among others.

The Bears’ official website, for what it’s worth, ranked their best 100 players of all time in 2019 and Butkus placed No. 2 behind Payton.

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Fri, Oct 06 2023 06:35:07 PM
Bears trade Chase Claypool for draft pick https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/report-bears-trade-chase-claypool-for-draft-pick/511549/ 511549 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/GettyImages-1706425150-1.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 The Chase Claypool era in Chicago is over. The Bears announced on Friday that GM Ryan Poles traded the embattled wide receiver to the Miami Dolphins.

The Bears will send Claypool and 2025 seventh-round pick to Miami in exchange for a 2025 sixth-rounder.

The move ends a season-long drama between the team and the wide receiver. Things got off to a bad start in Week 1 when Claypool appeared to put forth poor effort as a blocker and route runner. Claypool’s play was so lackadaisical there was speculation that head coach Matt Eberflus might bench him in Week 2. But Claypool made a point to apologize to his teammates, coaches and Poles and seemed to improve in the short term.

The changes didn’t last. Claypool called out coaches for using him improperly last Friday. One day later Claypool was made inactive for the team’s Week 4 game against the Broncos. Coaches said the decision to make Claypool inactive was unrelated to his comments, but Claypool may have made the comments if he saw the writing on the wall ahead of the team’s decision.

From there things spiraled. The team asked Claypool to stay at home for the Broncos game, then doubled down and kept him apart from the others in the week leading up to the Commanders game. Suffice it to say, he didn’t make the trip to Washington for Thursday Night Football.

Claypool played only 10 games for the Bears, and the Bears lost all 10 of those games. Over that span he caught 18 balls for 191 yards and one touchdown. Claypool appeared primed for a breakout Bears season in training camp. He became a favorite target for Justin Fields over the summer, especially in the red zone, but Claypool’s camp was derailed part way through by a leg injury.

Now, Claypool gets a fresh start with a fresh coaching staff. If anyone can salvage Claypool’s career it’s probably the Dolphins. Head coach Mike McDaniel is an offensive wiz, known for maximizing his players’ strengths and using them in creative ways to succeed.

Poles traded a second-round pick to the Steelers for Claypool last November. That pick ended up being the No. 32 selection in the draft, which the Steelers used to select Joey Porter Jr., a talented cornerback. If the Bears still had that pick, they could’ve used it to bring in a pass rusher like Derick Hall or Isaiah Foskey. Several highly touted offensive linemen like Matthew Bergeron, Steve Avila and Joe Tippmann were still on the board, too. Both pass rush and offensive line depth have been issues for the Bears this season.

Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.

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Fri, Oct 06 2023 09:53:10 AM
3 storylines to watch for Bears vs. Commanders on Thursday Night Football https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/3-storylines-to-watch-for-bears-vs-commanders-on-thursday-night-football/511219/ 511219 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/web-231005-justin-fields-getty.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The calendar could soon flip on the Chicago Bears in a very bad way.

At 0-4 this season, and on a 14-game losing streak overall dating back to last season, the Bears are a few weeks away from going a full year without winning a game.

The Bears have a chance to end that skid when they face the Washington Commanders on Thursday night.

Here are three storylines heading into Week 5’s Thursday Night Football.

1. Can the Bears snap their losing streak?

The Bears’ last victory was on Oct. 24, 2022, a 33-14 road win against the New England Patriots, making for the longest losing streak in franchise history. Only 18 teams in NFL history have lost more than 14 consecutive games, meaning the Bears are approaching a historic level of futility.  

The Commanders will look to hand the Bears their 15th straight loss, which would tie the 1971 Buffalo Bills and 2001 Carolina Panthers for the 17th most all time.

2. Can Justin Fields and the offense build off a promising performance?

Chicago is coming off its best performance of the season despite surrendering a 21-point third-quarter lead in a 31-28 loss to the previously winless Denver Broncos.

Justin Fields threw for a career-high 335 yards with four touchdowns and one interception in the loss. Wideout D.J. Moore caught eight passes for 131 yards and a touchdown, nearly topping his combined numbers from the first three weeks (11 receptions, 170 yards).

Fields and company will now face a Commanders defense that has allowed 30.0 points per game, fourth most in the league.

The Bears defense has been even worse, allowing 34.3 points per, which is second most, trailing only the Broncos, who allowed the Miami Dolphins to score 70 in one game.

3. Defense with fewest sacks faces offense with most sacks allowed

The Bears sacked Russell Wilson on Sunday!

Why is that notable? Because it doubled their season total for sacks this season at two, which is fewest in the league.

The defense will now line up against a Washington O-line that has allowed the most sacks in the league this season with 24.

Commanders quarterback Sam Howell was sacked nine times during a Week 3 rout against the Buffalo Bills, but the first-year starter rebounded Sunday against the defending NFC champion Philadelphia Eagles by throwing for 290 yards and a touchdown and rushing for 40 yards while not committing a turnover.

But…he was still sacked five times.

And the Commanders surrendered a 10-point lead in a 34-31 overtime loss to the Eagles. Washington has now lost two straight since opening the season 2-0. The Chicago matchup is the first of three favorable games for the Commanders, who next play the Atlanta Falcons and the New York Giants.    

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Thu, Oct 05 2023 04:03:55 PM
How to watch Bears vs. Commanders on Thursday Night Football in Week 5 https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-commanders-on-thursday-night-football-in-week-5/510343/ 510343 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/web-231002-justin-fields-jonathan-allen.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 Thursday Night Football in Week 5 will feature two teams coming off heartbreaking defeats.

On one side are the Chicago Bears. The team took a 28-7 lead at home against the Denver Broncos in a battle of winless teams before surrendering 24 unanswered points and falling 31-28. Justin Fields had a career-high four touchdowns, but he also lost a fumble that was returned for a Broncos touchdown and tossed the game-sealing interception.

Then there are the Washington Commanders. Ron Rivera’s team took an early lead over the undefeated Philadelphia Eagles, fell behind in the second half and then tied the game with a touchdown on the final play of regulation. They could not capitalize in overtime, however, as Eagles kicker Jake Elliott drilled a game-winning, 54-yard field goal to drop the Commanders to 2-2 on the year.

Which team will bounce back in primetime? Here is everything you need to know to watch the Week 5 Thursday Night Football contest.

When is the Bears vs. Commanders Week 5 game?

The Bears will visit the Commanders at FedEx Field in Landover, Md., Thursday, Oct. 5.

What time is the Bears vs. Commanders Week 5 game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Commanders is set for 7:15 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Commanders Week 5

Bears-Commanders will air exclusively on Amazon Prime Video. Al Michaels (play-by-play), Kirk Herbstreit (analyst) and Kaylee Hartung (sideline) are on the call. People in the Chicago area can also watch the game on WFLD.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Commanders.

How to stream the Bears vs. Commanders live online

Live stream: Prime Video, NFL+

Mobile stream: Prime Video app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Commanders on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

What is the weather forecast for Bears vs. Commanders Week 5?

NBC Chicago forecasts partly cloudy skies, a high temperature of 78 degrees and a 20% chance of rain in Landover on Thursday.

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Mon, Oct 02 2023 09:33:32 AM
Week 4 winners and losers: Bills make a statement, 49ers' dominance continues https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/week-4-winners-and-losers-bills-make-a-statement-bears-continue-to-flop/510281/ 510281 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/231001-fields-allen-getty.png?fit=300,169&quality=85&strip=all The NFL season is heating up as the weather is cooling down.

As the calendar flips to October, teams are facing more pressure to keep pace in the standings.

The Week 4 schedule was filled with divisional battles, overtime thrillers and statement victories.

Here are some winners and losers from the fourth Sunday of the 2023 NFL season:

WINNER: Bills make a statement vs. Dolphins

All the talk entering Week 4 centered on the Miami Dolphins — and for good reason. Mike McDaniel’s squad scored 70 points in their Week 3 win, and they were on a record-setting scoring pace.

The Dolphins hype train was derailed in Buffalo on Sunday, though. Led by Josh Allen (five total touchdowns) and Stefon Digs (three receiving touchdowns), the Bills cruised to a 48-20 win over their division rival.

Beating a divisional foe is always important, but the manner in which the Bills won was notable. By halftime, they led 31-14. After the break, the game was never close. It was a massive statement victory by a team looking to win its fourth straight AFC East title.

LOSER: Bears blow 21-point lead to Broncos, losing skid continues

Late in the third quarter, the Chicago Bears had hope. Justin Fields was playing well. The home team led 28-7. The 13-game losing streak appeared to be on the brink of death. But everything flipped in the final 16 minutes.

The collapse began with Russell Wilson driving the Broncos down for a touchdown with 14 seconds left in the third quarter. The Bears punted on their next possession, then the Broncos scored again. Fields lost a fumble on the ensuing drive, which Jonathon Cooper returned for a touchdown. Tie game.

Fields and Co. had a chance to retake the lead with just under three minutes to play. But instead of kicking a 36-yard field goal on fourth-and-1, the Bears ran an unsuccessful play and turned the ball over on downs. Wilson led Denver on a field goal drive, and Fields ended the game with an interception to seal the loss. The 0-4 Bears might have hit rock bottom on Sunday while giving Sean Payton his first win as a Bronco.

WINNER: A favorite emerges in the NFC South

Last week, the NFC South went 0-4. Each team lost in a different way — but all of them looked to be in trouble.

Week 4 wasn’t much better for any of them — except for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Baker Mayfield led the Bucs to an easy 26-9 win over the New Orleans Saints in the Superdome, giving them sole possession of the division lead. The Saints, with Derek Carr coming off an injury, mustered just 197 yards of offense.

Elsewhere, the Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers continued their losing streaks. The Falcons lost the Jaguars in London, while the Panthers dropped to 0-4 against the Vikings.

LOSER: Falcons skill players

Every week, fantasy owners are stunned by the Falcons — and not in a good way.

Rookie running back Bijan Robinson continues to produce, but Atlanta’s pass-catchers have been underwhelming for years since Arthur Smith was hired as head coach. Tight end Kyle Pitts, a former No. 4 overall pick, had two catches for 21 yards in Sunday’s loss to the Jaguars. He has just 11 catches on 21 targets through four weeks. Drake London, at least, made the most of his limited volume. The former No. 8 overall pick had three receptions for 28 yards and a touchdown in Week 4.

With Desmond Ridder at quarterback — and Marcus Mariota last year — the Falcons’ receivers continue to struggle. It’s not for a lack of talent on their end, as both Pitts and London have flashed as former top-10 picks. The 2-2 Falcons will return home to face the 2-2 Texans next week.

WINNER: Free football!

Every week of the 2023 season has featured overtime, and Week 4 was no different. In the early window, the Los Angeles Rams vs. Indianapolis Colts and Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles games needed extra time.

At Lucas Oil Stadium, the Rams jumped out to a 23-0 lead over the Colts before a furious comeback. Anthony Richardson and Co. scored 23 unanswered points to force overtime, but they didn’t even get a chance in the extra period. Matthew Stafford led an eight-play, 75-yard touchdown drive to win the game after a 22-yard strike to rookie star Puka Nacua.

The NFC East had an overtime battle of its own at Lincoln Financial Field. Jalen Hurts gave the Eagles a 31-24 lead with under two minutes to play on a touchdown throw to A.J. Brown. But Sam Howell battled back, connecting with Jahan Dotson with no time remaining to tie it up. After a Washington punt to begin OT, Jake Elliott nailed a 54-yard field goal to send the Eagles to 4-0 and the Commanders to 2-2.

LOSER: Whatever the Patriots just did

Mac Jones lost a fumble for a scoop-and-score, threw a pick-six on top of another interception and later got benched for Bailey Zappe. It’s like we’re in 2022 again. The Patriots have real problems all over the field, and they might’ve very well been 0-4 if the New York Jets had a healthy Aaron Rodgers under center. Who knows what Bill Belichick does next, but Jones is just not the long-term answer nor is there one on the current roster.

On the flip side, the Dallas Cowboys picked up major momentum after last week’s disappointing loss to the Arizona Cardinals. A 38-3 home win is just what they needed with a Sunday night road game in San Francisco looming against the 4-0 49ers.

WINNER: A non-QB MVP?

The 49ers continued their dominance early in 2023 and moved to 4-0 after a 35-16 home win against the Cardinals. Brock Purdy completed 20-for-21 passes for a clean 283 yards and a touchdown, but the star of the show — once again — was Christian McCaffrey. The versatile running back logged 106 rushing yards on 20 carries for three touchdowns and added seven catches for 71 yards and a receiving score. He’s simply been unstoppable under Kyle Shanahan.

Should the 49ers continue this all-around dominance, there’s a strong case to be made for McCaffrey in the MVP conversation. And on a day where Deebo Samuel was limited with an injury, Brandon Aiyuk returned and picked up the slack with six catches for 148 yards. Next up is Dallas at home for a chance to go 5-0.

LOSER: A rookie QB debut

Los Angeles Chargers star Khalil Mack gave Las Vegas Raiders rookie QB Aidan O’Connell his “Welcome to the NFL” moment. Six times, to be exact. Mack’s single-game sack performance ranked the second-best in NFL history, while O’Connell and Co. dropped to 1-3 in what could’ve been a snatch-and-grab win.

O’Connell, who started in place of Jimmy Garoppolo (concussion), completed 24-for-39 passes for 238 yards, one rushing touchdown and one pick, which game near the goal line late that essentially sealed the Chargers’ win.

The 25-year-old was the first rookie starting QB for the Raiders since Derek Carr in 2014, but just like Garoppolo showed through three weeks, the franchise needs a real needle mover if they hope to contend.

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Sun, Oct 01 2023 04:06:14 PM
Bears' blown lead tied for worst meltdown in team history https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/bears-blown-lead-tied-for-worst-meltdown-in-team-history/510191/ 510191 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/10/GettyImages-1711772489.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 The Chicago Bears seemed poised to earn their first victory of the season on Sunday, but instead they found themselves on the wrong side of a 31-28 comeback win by the Denver Broncos.

At one point in the third quarter, the Bears were winning 28-7 and were in cruise control, but after 24 unanswered points, they instead dropped to 0-4 on the season and are now staring at one of the worst stretches in team history.

In addition to adding another loss to their team-record losing streak, which now stands at 14 in a row, the Bears also tied a team record for the biggest lead they have ever blown in a game.

According to Pro Football Reference, the coughed-up 21-point lead matches the leads they lost to the New England Patriots on Nov. 10, 2002, and to the San Francisco 49ers on Oct. 18, 1953.

Oddly, neither of those games were played at Soldier Field, though they were both home games for the Bears. The first was played at Champaign’s Memorial Stadium as the team renovated Soldier Field, and the latter was played at the team’s old home at Wrigley Field.

Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.

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Sun, Oct 01 2023 03:13:00 PM
Bears' defense sets record with lapses vs. Broncos https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/bears-defense-sets-record-with-lapses-vs-broncos/510173/ 510173 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/05/chicago-bears-helmet-usatsi10325059-1.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears have long been known for their stellar defense, but the team just set a record that no one wants to possess.

The Bears held a 28-7 lead over the Denver Broncos on Sunday, but they gave up 21 unanswered points to allow Denver to tie things up in the fourth quarter.

The finishing blow on the comeback came from Denver’s defense, after Nik Bonitto sacked Justin Fields, forcing a fumble. Jonathon Cooper then picked the ball up and scampered home for a 35-yard touchdown to tie the game at 28-28.

With 28 points, the Broncos became the 14th straight Bears opponent to score at least 25 points in a game, and according to OptaSTATS, that makes the Bears the first team in NFL history to achieve that feat:

 The Bears came into the game as one of the worst defenses in the NFL, allowing 407.3 yards and 35.3 points per game. The yardage is third-worst in the league, and the 35.3 points per game likely would be the worst in the league if the Broncos hadn’t allowed 70 points to the Miami Dolphins a week ago.

Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.

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Sun, Oct 01 2023 02:42:49 PM
North Side bar offers to pay everyone's tab if Bears lose to Broncos on Sunday https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/north-side-bar-offers-to-pay-everyones-tab-if-bears-lose-to-broncos-on-sunday/509838/ 509838 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/web-230929-justin-fields-roschon-johnson.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 It’s no secret that the Chicago Bears have gotten off to a brutal start to their 2023 season, following a deflating Week 1 loss to the rival Green Bay Packers with defeats to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Kansas City Chiefs.

Now the Bears head back home for a game against the also-winless Denver Broncos, and one Chicago bar is confident that the Bears’ franchise-record losing streak is coming to an end this weekend.

Claddagh Ring Pub, an Irish-American sports bar located in Chicago’s Lincoln Square community area, is offering a free tab to patrons if the Bears fall to 0-4 with a loss against the Broncos.

Doors for the bar open at 11 a.m., an hour before the game’s scheduled start time. In order to be eligible for a free tab, customers must be inside before the noon kickoff.

Promo tabs will close at the conclusion of the third quarter.

In addition to a possible free tab in the event of a Bears loss, Claddagh will also be giving out free pizza to customers at halftime.

While the 2023 season is already looking bleak for Bears fans, Claddagh is making sure customers win in at least one way on Sunday.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

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Fri, Sep 29 2023 02:25:13 PM
Bears to launch augmented reality versions of Justin Fields, Cole Kmet at Soldier Field for upcoming home game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-to-launch-augmented-reality-versions-of-justin-fields-cole-kmet-at-soldier-field-for-upcoming-home-game/509819/ 509819 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/Untitled-1.png?fit=300,169&quality=85&strip=all Fans heading to Soldier Field for Sunday afternoon’s Bears game against the Denver Broncos can check out first-of-its-kind technology near one of the stadium’s gates as they head inside.

The team announced on Friday that augmented reality versions of Justin Fields and Cole Kmet will be launched, allowing fans with the Chicago Bears app to take pictures with the virtual versions of the two players outside the Ticketmaster gate.

In addition to the unique feature highlighting current members of the team, augmented reality has also been added to statues of Bears legends outside Soldier Field.

Using the Chicago Bears app, fans can scan QR codes next to the statues of George S. Halas and Walter Payton, giving fans information about their personal lives, contributions to the franchise and NFL and the legacies they leave behind.

Both the statues and the AR versions of Justin Fields and Cole Kmet will be located just outside the Ticketmaster gate, formerly known as Gate 0.

The Bears will hope to pick up their first victory of the year against the also-winless Broncos, with kickoff scheduled for 12 p.m. local time at Soldier Field.

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Fri, Sep 29 2023 12:44:19 PM
Bears vs. Broncos Week 4 odds: Spread, moneyline, player props and more https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-vs-broncos-week-4-odds-spread-moneyline-player-props-and-more/509803/ 509803 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/web-230929-justin-fields-roschon-johnson.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 There are two Week 4 matchups between winless teams, and one of them will be played at Soldier Field.

The Chicago Bears and Denver Broncos will square off with both teams in desperate need of a victory to turn their season around.

Matt Eberflus’ team started the year with losses to the Green Bay Packers and Tampa Bay Buccaneers before getting demolished by the reigning Super Bowl champion Chiefs in Kansas City last week.

Somehow, you could argue things are worse in Denver. The Sean Payton era began with home defeats to the Las Vegas Raiders and Washington Commanders. In Week 3, they allowed 70 points to the Miami Dolphins in an unprecedented display of offensive firepower.

Can the Bears finally find the win column, or will they fall to 0-4? Here’s a look at the Week 4 Bears-Broncos spread, moneyline and more, courtesy of our partner, PointsBet.

Bears-Broncos Week 4 spread

The Bears (0-3 against the spread in 2023) are listed as three-point underdogs for their home game against the Broncos.

Bears-Broncos Week 4 moneyline

The Bears have +140 odds to win, while the favored Broncos have -170 odds.

Bears-Broncos Week 4 over/under

The over/under is set at 46.5 points.

Bears-Broncos Week 4 quarterback props

Justin Fields was held under 100 passing yards with an inconsequential touchdown and an interception in Kansas City. It will be a welcome sight facing a defense that just gave up 10 touchdowns a week ago.

On the other side, Russell Wilson is coming off back-to-back games with 300-plus passing yards. He now faces a Bears defense that has given up the third-most passing yards per game (285.7) to opponents.

  • Justin Fields passing yards over/under: 185.5
  • Russell Wilson passing yards over/under: 245.5

Bears-Broncos Week 4 rushing props

No Bears running back has cracked 100 yards this year – not just in one game, but in all three games combined. Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson have a perfect chance to find their footing against the Broncos, who were trampled by allowing 350 rushing yards in Miami.

Fields, meanwhile, is the Bears’ leading rusher through three weeks with 109 yards on the ground.

  • Justin Fields rushing yards over/under: 60.5
  • Khalil Herbert rushing yards over/under: 40.5
  • Javonte Williams rushing yards over/under: 55.5

Bears-Broncos Week 4 receiving props

With just 99 passing yards to go around, D.J. Moore was the only Bears pass catcher to exceed 23 receiving yards in Kansas City last week. Despite all of the woes in the Broncos’ defense, Moore could be faced with a tough one-on-one matchup with Pat Surtain II on Sunday.

Broncos wideouts Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton both exceeded 80 receiving yards in Week 3, though their team was trailing from the jump in Miami.

  • D.J. Moore receiving yards over/under: 40.5
  • Jerry Jeudy receiving yards over/under: 55.5
  • Courtland Sutton receiving yards over/under: 55.5

Bears Week 4 touchdown props

Here are the odds for the Bears’ players to find the endzone against the Broncos:

  • Justin Fields anytime touchdown scorer: +130
  • Khalil Herbert anytime touchdown scorer: +210
  • Roschon Johnson anytime touchdown scorer: +210
  • D.J. Moore anytime touchdown scorer: +230
  • Cole Kmet anytime touchdown scorer: +320
  • Darnell Mooney anytime touchdown scorer: +400
  • Bears D/ST anytime touchdown scorer: +425
  • Chase Claypool anytime touchdown scorer: +550
  • Tyler Scott anytime touchdown scorer: +950

For PointsBet’s full Week 4 Bears-Broncos odds, click here.

Editor’s note: All odds are provided by our partner, PointsBet. PointsBet is our Official Sports Betting Partner and we may receive compensation if you place a bet on PointsBet for the first time after clicking our links.

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Fri, Sep 29 2023 11:53:41 AM
How to watch Bears vs. Broncos Week 4 game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-broncos-week-4-game/509030/ 509030 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/web-230925-russell-wilson-justin-fields.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 It’s now or never for the Chicago Bears.

Following a chaotic week at Halas Hall, the team was steamrolled in a 41-10 loss to the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs. The result dropped Justin Fields and Co. to 0-3 on the year and once again left the team looking for answers.

Speaking of 0-3 and looking for answers, the Bears’ next opponent is in the exact same boat.

The Denver Broncos will stumble into Chicago for a Week 4 matchup of winless squads. The Sean Payton era in Denver began with consecutive home losses to the Las Vegas Raiders and Washington Commanders. Things went from bad to historically humiliating in Week 3, as the Broncos surrendered 70 – SEVENTY – points to the Miami Dolphins in an unprecedented beatdown.

Before the Bears and Broncos fight for their first win of the year, here is everything you need to know to watch the Week 4 contest.

When is the Bears vs. Broncos Week 4 game?

The Bears will host the Broncos at Soldier Field in Chicago on Sunday, Oct. 1.

What time is the Bears vs. Broncos Week 4 game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Broncos is set for 12 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Broncos Week 4

CBS will air Bears-Broncos. Andrew Catalon (play-by-play), Tiki Barber (analyst), Matt Ryan (analyst) and A.J. Ross (sideline) will be the broadcast team for the game.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Broncos.

How to stream the Bears vs. Broncos live online

Free streaming option: FuboTV (free trial)

Live stream: Paramount+, NFL+

Mobile app: Paramount+ app, NFL mobile app

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

How to listen to Bears vs. Broncos on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

What is the weather forecast for Bears vs. Broncos Week 4?

NBC Chicago forecasts beautiful weather for Sunday’s game: mostly sunny skies, a high temperature of 80 degrees and a 7% chance of rain.

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Tue, Sep 26 2023 09:00:56 AM
Bears vs. Chiefs Week 3 odds: Spread, moneyline, player props and more https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-vs-chiefs-week-3-odds-spread-moneyline-player-props-and-more/508484/ 508484 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/web-230922-khalil-herbert-chiefs.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears will face perhaps their toughest test of the 2023 season in Week 3.

Matt Eberflus’ team will head to Kansas City to face Patrick Mahomes and the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs Sunday afternoon.

Both teams were 0-1 before they went to the Sunshine State in Week 2. While Mahomes and Co. bounced back against the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Bears’ struggles continued in Tampa Bay. Justin Fields and the offense couldn’t get enough going, leading to a 27-17 defeat against the Buccaneers that dropped the Bears to 0-2 on the year.

Can the Bears overcome the odds to get their first win of the season? Here’s a look at the Week 3 Bears-Chiefs spread, moneyline and more, courtesy of our partner, PointsBet.

Bears-Chiefs Week 3 spread

The Bears (0-2 against the spread in 2023) are listed as 12.5-point underdogs for their Week 3 game against the Chiefs. The game is tied for the largest line of the 2023 season thus far, with the other being the Dallas Cowboys favored by 12.5 points on the road against the Arizona Cardinals this week.

Bears-Chiefs Week 3 moneyline

The Bears have +500 odds to win in Kansas City. The Chiefs, meanwhile, have -750 odds to take care of business at home.

Bears-Chiefs Week 3 over/under

The over/under is set at 48 points.

Bears-Chiefs Week 3 quarterback props

As can be expected, oddsmakers see a much stronger day from Mahomes compared to Fields. They predict the two-time NFL MVP to find his rhythm, while Fields could be in for a long day against Chris Jones and the K.C. defense.

  • Justin Fields passing yards over/under: 170.5
  • Patrick Mahomes passing yards over/under: 285.5 

Bears-Chiefs Week 3 rushing props

The Bears and Chiefs have put up similar rushing production so far this season, and both teams have QBs who can use their legs. Fields is a more prolific runner than Mahomes, though the latter actually has more yards on the ground through two weeks.

As for running backs, Khalil Herbert and Roschon Johnson lead the Bears’ backfield and Isiah Pacheco is getting the lion’s share of carries for the Chiefs.

  • Justin Fields rushing yards over/under: 60.5
  • Khalil Herbert rushing yards over/under: 35.5
  • Roschon Johnson rushing yards over/under: 25.5

Bears-Chiefs Week 3 receiving props

D.J. Moore put a forgettable Bears debut behind him by posting six receptions for 104 receiving yards in Tampa Bay. He accounted for almost half of Fields’ passing yards, as no other Bear surpassed 40 receiving yards.

On the other side, all eyes will be on Travis Kelce, who scored a touchdown in his 2023 debut against the Jags. The Kansas City receiving corps aren’t strong, but Mahomes is capable of finding just about anybody if they can get open.

  • D.J. Moore receiving yards over/under: 40.5
  • Darnell Mooney receiving yards over/under: 30.5
  • Cole Kmet receiving yards over/under: 30.5
  • Travis Kelce receiving yards over/under: 75.5

For PointsBet’s full Week 3 Bears-Chiefs odds, click here.

Editor’s note: All odds are provided by our partner, PointsBet. PointsBet is our Official Sports Betting Partner and we may receive compensation if you place a bet on PointsBet for the first time after clicking our links.

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Fri, Sep 22 2023 09:34:39 AM
Alan Williams' attorney speaks out: There's no criminal activity https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/there-is-no-legal-action-around-any-of-this-alan-williams-attorney-says/508084/ 508084 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/GettyImages-1415836778.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 On Wednesday, the Bears announced Alan Williams submitted his resignation as the team’s defensive coordinator.

Leading up to and following the announcement, rumors swirled around the media and social media about the reason for his untimely departure. Specifically, rumors of criminal activity were reported about Williams.

One rumor even mentioned Halas Hall was raided, which the Bears later said was untrue. The team told NBC Sports Chicago’s Insider Josh Schrock there was no raid or police involvement of any kind concerning Williams.

Williams retained representation from Andrew M. Stroth, a Chicago-based sports attorney who’s worked with the Bears in past situations. In this case, Stroth declared himself Williams’ attorney.

Stroth told NBC Chicago untruthful and false statements about Williams are being made, which is the reason for his representation. He affirmed Williams stepped away from the Bears to handle health challenges and family matters and referred back to Williams’ statement.

“I am taking a step back to take care of my health and my family,” Williams said in his statement. “I appreciated the opportunity to work with the Chicago Bears, a storied NFL franchise with a rich history. The McCaskey family is first-class and second to none. I would also like to thank Coach Matt Eberflus and General Manager Ryan Poles for giving me the opportunity to come to Chicago. I would also like to thank President Kevin Warren, the coaches and the players of which I value relationships and camaraderie.

“I value the NFL shield and all that it stands for and after taking some time to address my health, I plan to come back and coach again.”

In response to the criminal rumors and allegations on social media, Stroth reportedly called them “unequivocally untrue.”

“There is absolutely no criminal activity,” Stroth said on 670 the Score with Parkins & Spiegel. “There are no criminal allegations. There has been no raid on Halas Hall. None of that is true.”

Stroth said his presence in the matter is because of the “false accusations and rumors that are being circulated on social media.”

When asked if Williams will seek legal action against those making false statements about him, Stroth said no legal action is currently being taken.

In conjunction with a Bears spokesperson announcing Williams’ resignation from the team, the Bears released a statement of their own.

“Alan Williams submitted his resignation as the team’s defensive coordinator this afternoon,” read the statement.

Stroth said the Bears’ brevity in their statement when it came to addressing the situation was out of respect for Williams.

“I think the Chicago Bears organization respects Coach Williams’ privacy and his family and his health. I don’t think it’s their role to talk about one of their top employees’ health or family matters,” Stroth said.

Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.

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Wed, Sep 20 2023 06:45:11 PM
Who will be the last winless NFL team in 2023? Ranking the candidates https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/who-will-be-the-last-winless-nfl-team-in-2023-ranking-the-candidates/507756/ 507756 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/230919-dobbs-payton-fields-getty.png?fit=300,169&quality=85&strip=all It’s still early in the 2023 NFL season, but several teams are already in desperation mode.

There are nine winless teams through two weeks – five in the AFC and four in the NFC, with the Carolina Panthers joining the club after their Monday night loss.

Some have looked better than others, depending on schedules, injuries and other misfortunes. But there’s zero doubt that they all need to win soon to save their seasons. Only 31 of the 270 teams that have started 0-2 since 1990 have reached the postseason – 11.5%.

Here’s a reverse countdown of the winless teams, starting with the squads closest to a victory and ending with the more hopeless clubs:

9. New England Patriots

Week 3: Road vs. New York Jets

The Patriots have suffered a pair of one-score home losses to open the season. That suggests that the team is close, and Week 3 against Zach Wilson and the Jets seems like the ideal spot to get a win. The Patriots have won 14 straight games against the Jets, and Wilson has seven interceptions in four career games against Bill Belichick.

8. Los Angeles Chargers

Week 3: Road vs. Minnesota Vikings

Head coach Brandon Staley could be on thin ice, making Week 3 a near must-win for the Chargers. After blowing a 27-0 lead in their playoff loss to the Jaguars, the Chargers dropped their first two games of 2023 by a combined margin of five points. Facing another 0-2 team in Minnesota could get them over the hump.

7. Minnesota Vikings

Week 3: Home vs. Los Angeles Chargers

The Vikings, like the Patriots and Chargers, have had two one-score losses this season. Those losses came against two 2-0 teams – the Buccaneers and Eagles. While Minnesota doesn’t have quite as much talent as Los Angeles, one advantage they do have is rest. The Vikings played on Thursday in Week 2, giving Kevin O’Connell and Co. a few extra days to prepare.

6. Houston Texans

Week 3: Road vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

The Texans went 3-13-1 last season, both of their 2023 losses have been by double digits and now they’re going on the road to play the defending AFC South champions. So, why are they not further down this page? Simply put: C.J. Stroud. The rookie QB has performed admirably through two starts with a banged-up offensive line. Jacksonville’s offense went silent in Week 2, which could indicate that Houston’s porous defense stands a chance.

5. Cincinnati Bengals

Week 3: Home vs. Los Angeles Rams (Monday Night Football)

This comes down to Joe Burrow’s health. Cincinnati’s star QB re-injured his calf in Week 2, putting his Week 3 availability in question. Burrow said postgame that he needed “a couple more sleeps” before considering his status for next Monday. But even if he does play, a home game against the Rams isn’t as welcoming as it looked heading into the season. Los Angeles is 1-1 after beating the Seahawks and hanging close with the 49ers.

4. Carolina Panthers

Week 3: Road vs. Seattle Seahawks

Losing two divisional games isn’t a promising start to the Bryce Young era. The No. 1 overall pick has, like any rookie QB, had some good and some bad moments. But the impact skill players on offense just simply aren’t there for this team. Next up is a trip to Seattle against a Seahawks team that just won on the road in Detroit. After that, they come home to play the Vikings before road games against the Lions and Dolphins.

3. Denver Broncos

Week 3: Road vs. Miami Dolphins

All close losses aren’t created equally – just look at the Broncos. Sean Payton’s team is 0-2 with a combined deficit of just three points (!). But blown leads, stagnant second-half offense and poor situational football have doomed Denver. Winning in the Miami heat is never easy, especially with how quick those weapons are. More realistically, Week 4 against the Bears looks like a better opportunity (more on Chicago in a bit).

2. Chicago Bears

Week 3: Road vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Justin Fields and the Bears look lost through two weeks. Now, they have to play the Super Bowl champions at Arrowhead. If you chalk that one up as a loss, which is fair, the 0-3 Bears host the aforementioned Broncos in Week 4. That game, a potential battle of winless teams, could be their chance. Denver has looked better than Chicago so far, though.

1. Arizona Cardinals

Week 3: Home vs. Dallas Cowboys

Sunday will go down as the Cardinals’ best chance at a win for at least a few weeks. They blew a 28-7 second-half lead at home, allowing 24 unanswered points to the Giants in a 31-28 loss. The Cardinals’ next eight opponents all have playoff aspirations: the Cowboys, 49ers, Bengals, Rams, Seahawks, Ravens, Browns and Falcons. It could be a while before Jonathan Gannon gets his first win as a head coach.

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Tue, Sep 19 2023 12:06:21 PM
How to watch Bears vs. Chiefs Week 3 game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-chiefs-week-3-game/507546/ 507546 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/web-230918-chiefs-bears-line-of-scrimmage.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears still haven’t found the win column in 2023, and it will be a challenge for them to get there in Week 3.

Matt Eberflus’ team dropped to 0-2 on the season with a 27-17 road loss to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 2. Justin Fields threw two interceptions, including a costly pick-six, while Baker Mayfield threw for more than 300 yards against the Bears’ defense.

After two disappointing outings to begin the year, the Bears face their toughest test yet: the defending Super Bowl champions.

The Bears will head to Kansas City in Week 3 to square off against the Chiefs. Patrick Mahomes and Co. got a bounce-back victory by beating the Jacksonville Jaguars in a rematch of last season’s divisional round.

Can the Bears pull off a major upset, or will they head back to Chicago with an 0-3 record? Here is how you can watch this week’s Bears-Chiefs matchup:

When is the Bears vs. Chiefs Week 3 game?

The Bears will face the Chiefs in Kansas City at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, on Sunday, Sept. 24.

What time is the Bears vs. Chiefs Week 3 game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Bucs is set for 3:25 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Chiefs Week 3

Bears-Bucs will air on FOX. The network’s top broadcast team of Kevin Burkhardt (play-by-play), Greg Olsen (analysis), Erin Andrews (sidelines) and Tom Rinaldi (sideline) will call the game.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Bucs. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Chiefs live online

Live stream: FoxSports.com, NFL+, FUBO

Mobile app: Fox Sports app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Chiefs on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

What is the weather forecast for Bears vs. Chiefs Week 3?

NBC Chicago forecasts isolated thunderstorms in the afternoon, a high temperature of 74 degrees and a 60% chance of rain in Kansas City on Sunday.

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Tue, Sep 19 2023 08:09:45 AM
Former Bears running back David Montgomery carted off field with thigh injury https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/former-bears-running-back-david-montgomery-carted-off-field-with-thigh-injury/507382/ 507382 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/web-230917-david-montgomery-getty.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 Former Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery was carted off the field with a thigh injury during his home debut with the Detroit Lions on Sunday.

Montgomery, who signed a three-year, $18 million deal with the Lions in March after spending four seasons with the Bears, had his right leg wrapped as he exited the game at the start of the fourth quarter.

The 26-year-old appeared to suffer the injury while being tackled along the sideline late in the third quarter. The Lions listed him as questionable to return.

 Montgomery had 67 yards on 16 carries, including a four-yard touchdown run that gave the Lions a 21-14 lead over the Seattle Seahawks in the third quarter. The Lions went on to lose in overtime 37-31 when Geno Smith connected with Tyler Lockett for a six-yard touchdown. The Lions, who upset the Kansas City Chiefs 21-20 in the opening game of the season, fell to 1-1.

Montgomery ran for 74 yards and scored the fourth-quarter go-ahead touchdown in the win over the defending Super Bowl champions in his first game as a Lion.

The Bears selected Montgomery in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. Over four seasons with the team, he had 915 carries for 3,609 yards and 26 touchdowns and 155 receptions for 1,240 yards and four touchdowns in 60 regular-season games. 

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Sun, Sep 17 2023 03:32:25 PM
Bears all-orange look draws mixed reviews on social media https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/bears-all-orange-look-draws-mixed-reviews-on-social-media/507332/ 507332 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/230917-bears-orange-getty.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears made a fashion statement on Sunday.

Justin Fields and Co. traveled to Tampa Bay for a Week 2 date with the Buccaneers. In the scorching Florida heat, the home team opted to wear white uniforms.

The Bears responded by rocking their orange alternate helmets and jerseys — a much cooler look, temperature-wise, than their traditional navy blue.

The Bears debuted their orange alternate helmets last season, when the NFL lifted its one-shell rule. They wore the helmets with their alternate orange jerseys twice in 2022, losing both times (Week 6 vs. Washington, Week 8 at Dallas).

As expected, social media had mixed thoughts on the uniforms. Some were fans of the look:

Others… well, not so much. There was plenty of negative reaction, as you can see:

The Bears trail the Bucs at halftime, 13-10.

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Sun, Sep 17 2023 01:30:50 PM
Bears vs. Buccaneers Week 2 odds: Spread, moneyline, player props and more https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-vs-buccaneers-week-2-odds-spread-moneyline-player-props-and-more/506890/ 506890 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/web-230914-justin-fields-vita-vea.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears are heading south in search of their first win in 2023.

Justin Fields and Co. opened with a letdown against the rival Green Bay Packers, losing 38-20 at Soldier Field. It marked the Bears’ ninth straight defeat against the Packers and put them behind the eight ball to start the season.

Now, the Bears will face their first road test of the year against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Baker Mayfield led the Bucs to an upset over the Minnesota Vikings in the first game of Tampa Bay’s post-Tom Brady era.

How likely are the Bears to get to 1-1 on Sunday? Here’s a look at the Week 2 Bears-Bucs odds, courtesy of our partner, PointsBet.

Bears-Bucs Week 2 spread

The Bears (0-1 against the spread in 2023) are listed as 2.5-point underdogs for their Week 2 game against the Bucs.

Bears-Bucs Week 2 moneyline

The Bears have +120 odds to win in Tampa. The Bucs, on the other hand, have -145 odds to pick up a home victory.

Bears-Bucs Week 2 over/under

The over/under is set at 41 points.

Bears-Bucs Week 2 quarterback props

Fields went 24-for-37 with 216 passing yards, a touchdown and an interception in Week 1. Oddsmakers foresee the third-year signal caller having a worse day through the air against the Bucs, though.

Mayfield, meanwhile, had 173 passing yards and two touchdowns in his Bucs debut.

  • Justin Fields passing yards over/under: 170.5
  • Baker Mayfield passing yards over/under: 225.5

Bears-Bucs Week 2 rushing props

Fields was far and away the Bears’ best runner against the Packers. The rest of the team combined for 63 yards on 20 carries in Week 1 with Roschon Johnson running in a touchdown.

The Bears now face a Buccaneers defense that held the Vikings to just 41 rushing yards last week.

  • Justin Fields rushing yards over/under: 60.5
  • Rachaad White rushing yards over/under: 55.5

Bears-Bucs Week 2 receiving props

D.J. Moore is looking to put his Bears debut in the rearview. The former Carolina Panthers wideout hauled in just two passes for 25 yards against Green Bay.

Darnell Mooney was the standout receiver for the Bears in Week 1, as he collected four receptions, 53 receiving yards and a touchdown. Cole Kmet (five catches, 44 yards), Herbert (three catches, 37 yards) and Johnson (six catches, 35 yards) also contributed in the passing attack.

On the other side, the Bucs boast two standout veteran pass catchers in Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.

  • D.J. Moore receiving yards over/under: 45.5
  • Darnell Mooney receiving yards over/under: 35.5
  • Cole Kmet receiving yards over/under: 30.5
  • Chris Godwin receiving yards over/under: 55.5
  • Mike Evans receiving yards over/under: 55.5

For PointsBet’s full Week 2 Bears-Bucs odds, click here.

Editor’s note: All odds are provided by our partner, PointsBet. PointsBet is our Official Sports Betting Partner and we may receive compensation if you place a bet on PointsBet for the first time after clicking our links.

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Fri, Sep 15 2023 11:03:37 AM
How to watch Bears vs. Buccaneers Week 2 game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-buccaneers-week-2-game/506112/ 506112 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/web-230911-justin-fields-bucs.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears are in need of a Week 2 rebound on the road.

The team fell flat in its season-opening, 38-20 loss to the rival Green Bay Packers. Justin Fields posted 275 total yards and added in a passing touchdown, but the Bears’ defense had few answers for Jordan Love in the first game of the post-Aaron Rodgers era.

Now, the Bears will turn their attention to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Like the Packers, the Bucs picked up a W in their first contest since their future Hall of Fame quarterback departed. Baker Mayfield took the reins from Tom Brady and helped pull off a 20-17 upset over the Vikings in Minnesota.

Will the Bears bounce back, or will they move to 0-2 with a Week 3 tilt against the defending Super Bowl champion Kansas City Chiefs on the horizon? Here is how you can watch this week’s Bears-Bucs matchup:

When is the Bears vs. Bucs Week 2 game?

The Bears will face the Bucs at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla., on Sunday, Sept. 17.

What time is the Bears vs. Buccaneers Week 2 game?

Kickoff time for Bears-Bucs is set for 12 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Buccaneers Week 2

Bears-Bucs will air on FOX.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down how the Bears fared against the Bucs. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Buccaneers live online

Live stream: FoxSports.com, NFL+, FUBO

Mobile app: Fox Sports app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Buccaneers on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

What is the weather forecast for Bears vs. Buccaneers Week 2?

NBC Chicago forecasts afternoon thunderstorms in Tampa on Sunday with a high temperature of 88 degrees and a 60% chance of rain.

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Tue, Sep 12 2023 08:10:58 AM
Bears fans left disappointed after Week 1 loss to Jordan Love, Packers https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/bears-fans-left-disappointed-after-week-1-loss-to-jordan-love-packers/505954/ 505954 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/GettyImages-1672695867-e1694388931998.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 No Aaron Rodgers, no problem for Green Bay. But there were several problems for Chicago.

The Bears dropped their Week 1 game at home to the Packers 38-20 with Jordan Love getting off to a solid start in his debut.

Love, who hadn’t yet played in the NFL since being drafted by Green Bay with the No. 26 overall pick in 2020, completed 15-for-27 passes for 245 yards, three touchdowns and no picks while averaging 9.1 yards a throw.

Justin Fields had a opener to forget, as he recorded 216 yards, one touchdown and one pick on 24-for-37 passing (5.8 average). The lone interception resulted in a pick-six for Green Bay as the Packers looked more composed and efficient on a day where Chicago hoped to be just that.

Here’s how the NFL world reacted to the Bears’ loss, their ninth straight vs. Green Bay:

Fields and Co. will look to bounce back in Week 2 when they head to Tampa Bay to face Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers, who opened the season with a 20-17 road win against the Minnesota Vikings.

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Sun, Sep 10 2023 07:04:52 PM
Bears vs. Packers Week 1 odds: Spread, moneyline, player props and more https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-vs-packers-week-1-odds-spread-moneyline-player-props-and-more/505711/ 505711 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/GettyImages-1446969011-e1694215088298.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 Da Bears are officially back, and they’ll be hosting a familiar foe.

The Green Bay Packers will be coming to Soldier Field to take on Justin Fields and the Chicago Bears for some Week 1 action. However, Chicago will no longer have to see Aaron Rodgers in the green and gold.

Instead, Jordan Love is finally set to make his NFL debut after the Packers selected him with the No. 26 overall pick in the 2020 draft.

So, how likely are the Bears to start the season 1-0? Here are some Week 1 Bears-Packers odds, provided by our partner, PointsBet:

Bears-Packers Week 1 spread

The Bears are 1.5-point road favorites to go 1-0 vs. Green Bay at home.

Bears-Packers Week 1 moneyline

The Bears have -125 odds to pick up the win in Soldier Field. The Packers, meanwhile, have +105 odds to steal a road victory.

Bears-Packers Week 1 over/under

The over/under is set at 41.5 points.

Bears-Packers Week 1 quarterback props

Justin Fields has made a name for himself as a dual-threat quarterback, with the props seeing him looking to make an impact in the air and on the ground. Jordan Love’s first game could go either way from a statistical lens.

  • Justin Fields passing yards over/under: 175.5
  • Justin Fields rushing yards over/under: 60.5
  • Jordan Love passing yards over/under: 210.5

Bears-Packers Week 1 rushing props

With David Montgomery out of the frame, Khalil Herbert will be the main man to aid Fields through the ground. The Packers have two solid options in Aaron Jones and AJ Dillon, with both capable of making an impact on any occasion. 

  • Khalil Herbert rushing yards over/under: 50.5
  • D’Onta Foreman rushing yards over/under: 20.5
  • Aaron Jones rushing yards over/under: 55.5
  • AJ Dillon rushing yards over/under: 45.5

For PointsBet’s full Week 1 Eagles-Patriots odds, click here.

Editor’s note: All odds are provided by our partner, PointsBet. PointsBet is our Official Sports Betting Partner and we may receive compensation if you place a bet on PointsBet for the first time after clicking our links.

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Fri, Sep 08 2023 06:28:01 PM
Bears release hype video on Instagram ahead of Week 1 matchup vs. Packers https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/bears-release-hype-video-on-instagram-ahead-of-week-1-matchup-vs-packers/505664/ 505664 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/05/Justin-Fields-point.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The NFL season is officially underway, and the heavily anticipated Week 1 matchup at Soldier Field between the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers is just two days away.

Ahead of the Sunday afternoon battle, the Bears posted a hype video on Instagram as the Monsters of the Midway look to flip the script on their rivalry with the Packers.

Coming off a 3-14 season that awarded them the first overall pick, the Bears offer a new look as franchise quarterback Justin Fields enters his third NFL season.

Highlighted by offseason acquisitions of wide receiver D.J. Moore and edge rusher Yannick Ngakoue, the former acquired in a trade involving the draft’s top pick, the Bears will hope to qualify for the postseason for the first time since 2020.

The start of the season couldn’t come with a bigger test, as the Bears will have to take on the Aaron Rodgers-less Packers in a prime opportunity to turn the tables on one of professional sports’ most famous rivalries.

Kickoff on Sunday is slated for 3:25 p.m. local time from Soldier Field.

Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.

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Fri, Sep 08 2023 02:39:45 PM
Bears Twitter roasts Matt Nagy after Chiefs' surprising loss to Lions https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-twitter-roasts-matt-nagy-after-chiefs-surprising-loss-to-lions/505629/ 505629 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/web-230908-patrick-mahomes-matt-nagy.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The Chicago Bears are already a half-game down in the NFL standings, and many people think a former Bears head coach is partially to blame.

The Detroit Lions picked up a 21-20 upset victory over the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs Thursday night to open the 2023 season.

Patrick Mahomes certainly didn’t get as much help as he’s come to expect. Star tight end Travis Kelce was on the sideline and All-Pro defensive tackle Chris Jones was in the stands. Mahomes’ receivers, particularly Kadarius Toney, hung him out to dry, and he finished the night 21-for-39 passing with 226 passing yards, two passing touchdowns and a pick-six that slipped right through Toney’s fingers.

Still, Bears fans turned their attention to a familiar face holding a playsheet.

Thursday marked Matt Nagy’s first game on an NFL sideline since the Bears fired him following the 2021 season. The Chiefs hired Nagy as offensive coordinator, a role he held with the team in 2017 before becoming the Bears’ head coach, to fill in for Eric Bieniemy, who is now the offensive coordinator with the Washington Commanders.

The Chiefs’ offense wasn’t expected to be at full throttle without Kelce, but some uninspiring playcalling on Thursday gave Bears fans déjà vu.

Nagy will get a chance at some redemption in Week 2 when the Chiefs face the Jaguars in Jacksonville in Week 2.

This story uses functionality that may not work in our app. Click here to open the story in your web browser.

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Fri, Sep 08 2023 12:23:05 PM
Bears vs Packers guide: Game predictions, how to watch and more https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/news/bears-vs-packers-guide-game-predictions-soldier-field-tailgating/505572/ 505572 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/08/Untitled-1-13.png?fit=300,169&quality=85&strip=all The Chicago Bears will get their 2023-24 season underway on Sunday when they take on the Green Bay Packers at Soldier Field.

Temperatures are expected to be in the 70s at kickoff, which is set for 3:25 p.m. And, head’s up: Soldier Field remains a completely cashless facility, according to the team.

Whether you’re headed to the game or watching it from home, here’s what to know.

Josh Schrock’s game predictions

Here’s Bears’ Insider Josh Schrock’s predictions for Bears vs. Packers:

When the schedule was released, I thought there was no way the Bears could lose this game to the Packers.

An August watching a clunky offense fail to find its rhythm behind a shifting offensive line has erased that thought from my mind.

Jordan Love looked good in the preseason. The Packers have talent on defense, employ a two-headed monster at running back, and own one of the NFL’s best offensive lines.

Last season, the Packers averaged just under 200 rushing yards per game against the Bears. The Bears’ “improved’ run defense didn’t show up in the preseason.

Still, I don’t want to live in a Chicago where Jordan Love waltzes in and beats the Bears in the first game of the post-Aaron Rodgers era.

Justin Fields outduels Love, and Kyler Gordon seals a Week 1 win with a late interception.

Bears 28, Packers 24

How to watch

The Bears’ matchup against the Packers will air on FOX. The network’s top team of Kevin Burkhardt (play-by-play), Greg Olsen (analyst), Erin Andrews (sideline) and Tom Rinaldi (sideline) will be on the call.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down the Bears’ season opener. 

Getting to Soldier Field

Metra offers a “Bears Extra” train on the Electric Line. Sundays, the train will leave University Park at 9:30 a.m., making all stops between UP and Kensington, as well as stops at 59th Street, 55-56-57th Street, and 51st/53rd Street. The main stop will be 18th Street, which is a short-walking distance from the stadium.

For 3:25 p.m. games, the train will depart at 1:30 p.m.

On weeknights, regularly-scheduled Metra trains will stop at 18th Street, which is normally a flag stop during the week.

MORE: Chase Claypool ‘back to full speed’ as Bears prepare to face Packers in opener

Metra tickets are $7 on Sundays. Children age-11 and younger ride for free.

Fans can also take the Chicago Transit Authority’s #128 bus from Union Station and the Ogilvie Transportation Center. The Inner Drive/Michigan Express bus will also provide service, as will the Red, Green and Orange line trains at Roosevelt.

Free CTA rides

Standard CTA fares apply, but for the season opener vs. Green Bay, Molson Coors has partnered with the CTA to offer free postgame rides on buses and trains.

Parking

Parking facilities immediately around Soldier Field require pre-paid parking passes, and open four hours prior to kickoff. They close two hours after the game concludes.

Parking is also available at Grant Park North and South, and at Millennium Garage’s locations off of Columbus Drive.

You can find a full list of available parking lots and prices here.

Tailgating at Soldier Field

Tailgating is allowed in most parking lots around the stadium, so long as fans comply with rules and regulations of the team.

The South Lot, North Parking Garage and Adler Planetarium Lots are all open for tailgating, as is the McCormick Place 31st Street Lot, with shuttles transporting fans to the game.

Soldier Field bag policy

Clear bags up to 12x6x12 inches are accepted. A non-clear wallet, clutch, crossbody bag or purse is permitted, so long as it is 4.5×6.5 inches or less.

Medical bags are permitted after screening, according to the team. Medical bags can be screened at gates 8, 38 and 47, the team said.

Diaper bags must be clear and must fit the prescribed dimensions for larger bags.

What time do gates open?

Gates to the stadium open two hours prior to kickoff.

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Fri, Sep 08 2023 07:03:10 AM
How much it costs to attend a Bears game, and how they compare to rest of NFL https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/how-much-it-costs-to-attend-a-bears-game-and-how-they-compare-to-rest-of-nfl/505420/ 505420 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/08/GettyImages-2546723.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,193 The NFL season has finally arrived, and a new ranking shows how much you’ll have to spend to bring your family to a Chicago Bears game this season.

The ranking was compiled by Bookies.com, and shows the cost of tickets, as well as drinks and food, at all 30 NFL stadiums.

The final number includes the cost of the cheapest ticket to a game, multiplied by four. Parking, two beers, two sodas and four hot dogs are then added into the mix.

For the Bears, that totals out to $713.80, just six dollars more than the same items at a Green Bay Packers game.

The Bears dropped three spots in this year’s ranking, according to the website.

The most expensive NFL gameday experience for a family of four can be found in Las Vegas, with Raiders games running at nearly $1,400 for a family of four.

The Philadelphia Eagles, Kansas City Chiefs and Buffalo Bills occupy the next three spots.

In the No. 5 position is an NFC North rival of the Bears, as a family-of-four can take in a Detroit Lions game for an average of $855.10.

Beer prices at Lions games are very reasonable, at $10 for two drinks, but hot dogs prices are on the high side, running $26 for four.

Fans willing to make a drive can get a good deal at an Indianapolis Colts game, as they have the second-lowest average price for fans at $324.11 for a family of four.

The NFL average according to the website is $646.88.

Click here to follow the Under Center Podcast.

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Thu, Sep 07 2023 03:15:05 PM
How to watch Bears vs. Packers Week 1 game https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/how-to-watch-bears-vs-packers-week-1-game/505156/ 505156 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/09/web-230906-justin-fields-packers.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 The opening game for the Chicago Bears’ 2023 season features a mix of old and new.

When it comes to the NFL’s oldest rivalries, it doesn’t get better than Bears-Packers, and the league’s schedule-makers wasted no time setting up a matchup between the two teams. The Bears will welcome their longtime NFC North nemesis to Chicago to kick off the 2023 campaign.

As for the players taking the field in the Week 1 showdown, there’s plenty of “new” on both sides.

For the first time in 15 years, Aaron Rodgers won’t be suiting up as the Packers’ QB1. The team handed the keys to Jordan Love, who has made only one start since being drafted in 2021.

The Bears also have some welcome new additions on their offense. D.J. Moore is Justin Fields’ new top wide receiver and rookie Darnell Wright is the new right tackle as the organization looks to improve on last season’s 3-14 record.

How will Fields and Co. perform against Love and the new-look Packers? Here is everything to know to tune into the Bears’ Week 1 matchup:

When is the Bears vs. Packers Week 1 game?

The Bears’ Week 1 game against the Packers will be played on Sunday, Sept. 10, at Soldier Field in Chicago.

What time is the Bears vs. Packers Week 1 game?

Kickoff time for Packers-Bears is set for 3:25 p.m. CT.

How to watch Bears vs. Packers Week 1

The Bears’ matchup against the Packers will air on FOX. The network’s top team of Kevin Burkhardt (play-by-play), Greg Olsen (analyst), Erin Andrews (sideline) and Tom Rinaldi (sideline) will be on the call.

NBC Sports Chicago’s Football Aftershow will begin immediately following the game. Ruthie Polinsky will be joined by Lance Briggs, Alex Brown and Dave Wannstedt to break down the Bears’ season opener. 

How to stream the Bears vs. Packers live online

Live stream: FoxSports.com, NFL+, FUBO

Mobile app: Fox Sports app, NFL mobile app

How to listen to Bears vs. Packers on the radio

Station: ESPN 1000

What is the weather forecast for Bears vs. Packers Week 1?

NBC Chicago forecasts some glorious Week 1 weather on Sunday: mainly sunny with a few afternoon clouds, a high of 77 degrees, 5-10 mph winds and a 6% chance of rain.

Editor’s note: FUBO TV is a sponsored partner and we may receive compensation if you click on our links or sign up.

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Thu, Sep 07 2023 08:31:59 AM
NBC Sports Chicago announces 2023 Chicago Bears and NFL season coverage lineup https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/nbc-sports-chicago-announces-2023-chicago-bears-and-nfl-season-coverage-lineup/504983/ 504983 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/08/GettyImages-1161439827.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 Chicago, IL (September 5, 2023) –NBC Sports Chicago has announced NBCU Local Chicago’s multi-platform coverage lineup for the upcoming 2023 Chicago Bears/NFL season featuring the return of Football Aftershow following every Bears game with new host Ruthie Polinsky, along with the return of popular analysts/Bears legends Lance Briggs, Alex Brown, and Dave Wannstedt. In addition, fans can look forward to a brand-new season of its weeknight Bears news and analysis program, Football Night in Chicago, along with dedicated daily Bears coverage on NBC 5 News and Noticiero Telemundo Chicago, expanded 24/7 digital coverage via NBCSportsChicago.com and the NBC Sports Chicago app, new episodes of the “Under Center” podcast, season-long social media coverage, and much more.

“We’re looking forward to delivering our most comprehensive season of football coverage to date, as our team of experts and analysts will deliver expanded highlights, postgame reaction, and breakdowns of the biggest plays each week through the year,” said John Schippman, VP of Sports Content, NBCUniversal Local Chicago. “The lineup at NBCUniversal Chicago is second to none with the experience and knowledge of former all-pro players, championship coaches, and veteran sportscasters who have been covering this sport for decades.”

Please note NBC Sports Chicago’s line-up of Bears and additional pro football-related programming/coverage for the upcoming 2023 NFL season:

GAME DAY PROGRAMMING…

FOOTBALL AFTERSHOW presented by Saint Xavier University – Immediately following the Chicago Bears home/season opener against the arch-rival Green Bay Packers on Sunday, September 10, NBC Sports Chicago will deliver the season debut of its popular LIVE Bears game day wrap-up program Football Aftershow presented by Saint Xavier University (6:30 PM CT, time approx.).  The 90-minute show, which will immediately follow EVERY Bears game this season, will be hosted by NBC 5 News sports anchor/reporter Ruthie Polinsky and will featurea panel of Bears/NFL experts including former Bears linebacker/seven-time Pro Bowler Lance Briggs,former Bears defensive end standout Alex Brown, and NFL expert/former Bears head coach Dave Wannstedt. In addition to the spirited banter from the stars of the show, Football Aftershow also showcases post-game press conferences with coaches and players from both teams. 

SPORTS SUNDAY – Immediately following “Sunday Night Football” and the “NBC 5 News at 10pm,” Bears fans can look forward to a complete Bears gameday recap, along with the entire day’s action in the NFL on Sports Sunday (11:00 PM). Featuring host Leila Rahimi, along with co-hosts/reporters Mike Berman and Ruthie Polinsky, Sports Sunday will deliver extensive Bears gameday highlights, interviews with players and coaches, detailed analysis, a preview of the team’s next match-up and more. NOTE: Sports Sunday can also be viewed on the NBC Chicago News 24/7 live streaming channel on Roku, Peacock, Samsung TV Plus, Xumo Play and Amazon Fire TV. Link on how to find each here: http://nbcchi.com/SCIhuKM.

NBC 5 NEWS / NOTICIERO TELEMUNDO CHICAGO – Throughout the entire 2023 Bears/NFL season, every edition of NBC 5 News (featuring Leila Rahimi, Mike Berman, Ruthie Polinsky,and Jeff Blanzy) and Noticiero Telemundo Chicago (featuring Héctor Lozano and Raúl Delgado) will provide viewers with extensive coverage featuring the very latest team/league news, game highlights, interviews with players and coaches, feature stories, and much more. NOTE: NBC 5 News can also be seen on the NBC Chicago News 24/7 live streaming channel.

WEEKNIGHT BEARS/NFL PROGRAMMING…

FOOTBALL NIGHT IN CHICAGO presented by PointsBet – Airing Monday-Friday at LIVE 6:00 PM throughout the entire year, Football Night in Chicago presented by PointsBetprovides die-hard Bears/NFL fans with the very latest news coming out of Halas Hall and throughout the entire league. Each weeknight, athletes, coaches, and insiders from across the NFL join the show for candid conversations and debate on the hottest topics happening in Chicago and around the NFL. Plus, FNIC also includes nightly best bets and gambling strategies via PointsBet. FNIC’s deep roster of talent and contributors includes Leila Rahimi, Mike Berman, Ruthie Polinsky, David Haugh, Laurence Holmes, Mark Carmen, Josh Schrock, Ken Davis, Alex Shapiro, and Dave Wannstedt among others. NOTE: Due to conflicts with White Sox baseball on the main NBC Sports Chicago channel, Football Night in Chicago will air live on NBC Sports Chicago Plus (+) on the following dates: Sept. 11-15, 18 & 25.

WEEKLY BEARS/NFL PROGRAMMING…

PRO FOOTBALL WEEKLY – Now in its third decade on television, Pro Football Weeklyis a half-hour program hosted by NBC Sports Chicago’sPat Boyle and features an expert panel led by Bears legend/Pro Football Hall of Famer Dan Hampton, NFL expert/former Bears head coach Dave Wannstedt and PFW founder Hub Arkush.  The program’s in-depth preview analysis and unique format make the show a preferred vehicle for football fans desiring the most thorough coverage of the NFL. This hard-hitting program features the latest NFL news reports, opinions and insider information, along with game-by-game predictions. New episodes of Pro Football Weekly regularly debut on Friday afternoons at varied times depending on the network’s live pro event schedule, while replays can be seen on Saturday afternoons/evenings at varied times, along with every Sunday morning at 10:00 AM.

NATIONAL PROGRAMMING… 

SUNDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL (NBC 5 Chicago) – NBC 5 Chicago is the local home for America’s #1 primetime television show for the past 12-straight years, Sunday Night Football. On Thursday, September 7, NBC Chicago will provide live coverage of “NFL Kickoff 2023,” SNF’s annual first game of the season featuring the defending Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs hosting the Bears’ NFC North rival Detroit Lions (coverage begins at 6:00 PM with the NFL Kickoff pre-game show; kick-off scheduled for 7:20 PM). Then, on Sunday, September 10, fans can look forward to the season opener of Sunday Night Football featuring a battle between last year’s NFC East playoff teams, the Dallas Cowboys at New York Giants (coverage begins with Football Night in America 6:00 p.m.; kickoff at 7:20 p.m.). NOTES: Telemundo Chicago will also carry the “SNF” season opener in Spanish on Sept. 10. The Bears will be featured on “SNF” on Sunday, October 29, as they’ll travel to face the Los Angeles Chargers. For full list of this year’s SNF telecasts, please note the following link: www.nbcsports.com/nfl/snf.    

BENNY VS. THE PENNY – The NBC Sports Regional Networks (including NBC Sports Chicago) are launching a new football preview show led by sports radio personality Ben Maller, Benny vs. The Penny, beginning Friday, September 8 immediately following White Sox Postgame Live (9:00 PM, time approx.). The half-hour program, featuring veteran sportscaster Tomm Looney as Maller’s sidekick, will provide entertaining and informative analysis and insightful perspectives covering the week’s matchups. As part of the program, Maller will also expand his popular radio show segment in which he analyzes games and selects who he thinks will win, then goes head-to-head against a coin flip to see whose picks are correct – the host or the ‘penny.’ Debut episodes of Benny vs. The Penny will air every Friday night on NBC Sports Chicago following the network’s live pro event postgame programming.

FANTASY FOOTBALL HAPPY HOUR WITH MATTHEW BERRY – On Tuesday nights at 10:00 PM and at varied times on Thursday evenings, NBC Sports Chicago will carry new episodes of NBC Sports’ Fantasy Football Happy Hour with Matthew Berry. Regarded as one of the nation’s top fantasy experts, Berry takes a deep dive on player rankings, waiver wire advice, who to start, who to sit, along with his popular love/hate analysis. For the latest clips, please visit the following link: Fantasy Football Happy Hour with Matthew Berry Podcast – NBC Sports.

EXPANDED DIGITAL COVERAGE… 

NBCSportsChicago.com / NBC Sports Chicago app NBCSportsChicago.com’s dedicated Bears section– NBCSportsChicago.com/NFL/Chicago-Bears AND the NBC Sports Chicago app will deliver comprehensive 24/7 Bears and NFL coverage all season long featuring original commentary, video interviews, feature reports, along with the latest Bears news and daily insight from NBC Sports Chicago’s roster of in-house Bears/NFL experts highlighted by in-depth reporting from Bears “Insider” Josh Schrock. Fans can also visit nbcchicago.com and telemundochicago.com for supplementary Bears digital coverage all season long. In addition, fans can look forward to the following additional audio/social highlights this season:

  • Under Center podcast presented by Saint Xavier University: Throughout the Bears/NFL season, fans can look forward to even more entertaining and informative episodes of the popular Under Center podcast featuring host Ken Davis,who is joined by NBC Sports Chicago’s roster of football experts including Josh Schrock, Alex Shapiro, Glynn Morgan and an array of special guests. Fans can download all of NBC Sports Chicago’s podcasts at NBCSportsChicago.com/podcasts and simply subscribe to them via Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Art19, and YouTube. The podcasts can be played on any mobile device, laptop, or desktop computer. NOTE: Viewers can also “watch” new episodes of the Under Center podcast every Wednesday at 5:30 PM on NBC Sports Chicago.  
  • SOCIAL MEDIA – @NBCSBearsis THE Twitter source for up-to-the-second Bears in-game updates, including reactions to the action via the Football Aftershow crew, along with breaking news, interactive questions, polls, and much more 24/7.  In addition, a multitude of in-house “Sights & Sounds” moments, along with game day facts and metrics, and score updates will be provided throughout the season on Instagram and Instagram Live (@NBCSChicago).
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Tue, Sep 05 2023 11:18:37 AM
With regular season approaching, here's who has been cut from Bears roster https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/nfl/chicago-bears/bears-news/with-regular-season-approaching-heres-who-has-been-cut-from-bears-roster/503652/ 503652 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/08/USATSI_21281875.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 The Chicago Bears wrapped up their third and final preseason game on Saturday, falling 24-21 to the Buffalo Bills to wrap up a 1-2 preseason as the team prepares for the regular-season opener on Sept. 10.

Just one day removed from the final preseason game, roster cuts have begun as the Bears start the process of trimming the active roster down to 53.

Among Sunday’s cuts were backup quarterback P.J. Walker and former first-round pick offensive tackle Alex Leatherwood.

The Bears later confirmed both of the aforementioned cuts, while also announcing that offensive lineman Gabe Houy has been waived with an injury designation.

The two cuts announced Sunday bring the Bears’ current roster count at 83, meaning some more significant reduction is on the way before the Sept. 10 opener against the Green Bay Packers.

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Sun, Aug 27 2023 06:38:53 PM
Johnny Lujack, 1947 Heisman winner for Notre Dame and All-Pro QB for Bears, dies at 98 https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/ncaa/ncaaf/johnny-lujack-1947-heisman-winning-qb-who-led-notre-dame-to-3-national-titles-dies-at-98/497022/ 497022 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/07/230725-johnny-lujack-AP.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,169 Johnny Lujack, the Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback who led Notre Dame to three national championships in the 1940s, died in Florida on Tuesday following a brief illness. He was 98.

Lujack’s death was confirmed by his granddaughter, Amy Schiller, who said he had entered hospice care recently after having been in good health until a couple of weeks ago.

“He was not only a legend in Notre Dame football and the sports world,” Schiller said, “he was a legend as a father and grandfather and great grandfather.”

Lujack is considered one of the greatest Notre Dame players of all time, having won the Heisman in 1947 and leading the Irish to national titles in 1943, 1946 and 1947.

Lujack posted a 20-1-1 record as starting quarterback for coach Frank Leahy. He played for the Irish in 1942 and ‘43, served two years in the Navy during World War II, and returned to Notre Dame for the 1946 and ’47 seasons.

He was The Associated Press athlete of the year in 1947, when he was a first-round draft pick of the Chicago Bears. He played four seasons for the Bears, leading the team in scoring each year before retiring at age 26.

While Lujack had plenty of offensive highlights at Notre Dame, he is best remembered for a play he made as a defensive back in an era when players stayed on the field for nearly every play.

A standing-room-only crowd of about 75,000 packed Yankee Stadium in 1946 to see No. 1 Army — the two-time defending national champions — face then-rival Notre Dame, which was ranked No. 2. Lujack made the game-saving tackle against Doc Blanchard in a 0-0 tie. That contest is frequently referred to as the game of the century.

Lujack, in a 1996 interview with the AP, said that was the game he was asked about most often. He downplayed the tackle of Blanchard, who won the Heisman in 1945.

“You were back there,” Lujack said. “You were supposed to make the tackle.”

Lujack finished third in Heisman voting in 1946 before he won the award as the college game’s outstanding player the next year, when he completed 61 of 109 passes for 777 yards with nine touchdowns in leading the Irish to a 9-0 record and their second straight title.

He took over as the starting quarterback for the top-ranked Irish in 1943, after Angelo Bertelli left after six games to join the Marines. Among the other Irish greats he played with were Creighton Miller, Terry Brennan, Emil Sitko, George Connor, Bill Fischer and 1949 Heisman winner Leon Hart.

“We always felt that a game was kind of an easy scrimmage because the scrimmages we had against each other were mean and rough,” Lujack once said.

The one loss in his college football career came in the final game of his sophomore season against Great Lakes Naval Training Station, a military base team that had some college players serving in the military, including some Notre Dame players.

Lujack intercepted eight passes as a rookie with the Bears and in 1949 he threw for 468 yards and six touchdowns in a 52-21 win over the Chicago Cardinals. He played in the Pro Bowl his final two seasons before retiring.

He served as an assistant coach at Notre Dame in Leahy’s final two seasons. He then moved to Davenport, Iowa, where he owned an auto dealership until 1988.

Former AP Sports Writer Tom Coyne contributed.

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Tue, Jul 25 2023 02:36:20 PM
What to know about Bears Family Fest, Bears Training Camp as tickets go on sale https://www.nbcsportschicago.com/news/bears-family-fest-bears-training-camp-tickets-parking/493857/ 493857 post https://media.nbcsportschicago.com/2023/07/GettyImages-1234441295.jpg?quality=85&strip=all&fit=300,200 It may only be July, but football season is just around the corner and Chicago Bears fans can catch a first glimpse of it next month at both the Chicago Bears Family Fest at Soldier Field, and Chicago Bears Training Camp in Lake Forest.

Here’s what to know about each event, and how to snag tickets.

Chicago Bears Family Fest

The 2023 Meijer Chicago Bears Family Fest will be held Aug. 6 at Soldier Field. The annual event, typically held in August, is a favorite among fans of all ages and includes family games and activities, and the chance to see the Chicago Bears hold their first practice of the season.

Tickets start at $13 and are currently on sale.

Chicago Bears Training Camp

The Chicago Bears last month announced their training camp schedule, which will bring several public practices for fans to Halas Hall in Lake Forest this summer.

The team’s training camp is slated to be held from July 26 through Aug. 14, with nine public practices scheduled for fans to enjoy for free.

“Enjoy Illinois Chicago Bears Training Camp is our first official in-person event of the new season and we look forward to welcoming back our passionate fans, business and community partners to Halas Hall again this year,” Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren said in a statement. “This family-first experience is built for all Bears fans alike, with team practices being the center point and many other attractions, games and activities across our campus in Lake Forest throughout each open date.”

Tickets to those practices are set to become available at 10 a.m. on July 6.

Fans can select up to four tickets per date. Fans visiting training camp will have the chance to get an “up-close view of practice” and have the chance to participate in Bears-related activities, including photo and autograph opportunities, visits from Staley Da Bear and Monster Squad, and more.

Fans will not be able to park at Halas Hall, but free options are available at Hawthorn Mall and shuttle buses are set to run “regularly.” Ride-share and drop-offs “of any kind” won’t be allowed at Halas Hall or within Conway Park, the team said.

See the full training camp schedule below:

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Thu, Jul 06 2023 07:20:15 AM