Sun Jan 04 12:30:00 UTC 2026: Chicago Bears Eye No. 2 Seed in NFC Playoffs as They Face Detroit Lions

Chicago, IL – The NFC North champion Chicago Bears (11-5) have a chance to secure the No. 2 seed in the NFC playoffs as they close out the regular season against the Detroit Lions (8-8) at Soldier Field on Sunday. A win over Detroit or a Philadelphia Eagles’ loss to the Washington Commanders would give the Bears the coveted seed and home-field advantage in the wild card round.

The Bears, who have turned their season around after an 0-2 start, are looking to bounce back from a high-scoring loss to the San Francisco 49ers last week and avenge an earlier season defeat against the Lions. Despite the Lions being eliminated from playoff contention after losing three straight, Bears coach Ben Johnson expects a competitive game.

Quarterback Caleb Williams, who’s having a stellar season with 3,730 passing yards and 25 touchdowns, is within reach of breaking Bears’ single-season passing records. The Bears offense has become one of the league’s most potent, ranking in the top 10 in scoring and total yards, a significant improvement from last season. The Lions’ defense will have their work cut out for them against the Bears’ balanced attack, featuring a strong running game led by D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai.

The Lions, led by quarterback Jared Goff and a talented receiving duo of Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, boast a high-powered offense. Their ground game is powered by Jahmyr Gibbs and former Bears running back David Montgomery. The Bears defense, known for its league-leading 32 takeaways, will aim to disrupt Goff and limit the Lions’ explosive plays.

Key matchups to watch include Bears running back D’Andre Swift against Lions linebacker Jack Campbell, and Bears linebacker T.J. Edwards against Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs. With playoff implications on the line and both teams possessing dynamic offenses, Sunday’s game at Soldier Field promises to be a thrilling contest.

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