Green Bay Packers vs Chicago Bears (5:00pm)

The stage is set for one of the NFL's most storied rivalries to ignite the 2026 playoffs. Tonight, January 10, 2026, the seventh-seeded Green Bay Packers (9-7-1) face off against the second-seeded Chicago Bears (11-6) at Soldier Field in an NFC Wild Card matchup. This isn't just any game it's the third meeting between these NFC North foes this season, with the series split 1-1 after Green Bay's early win and Chicago's overtime thriller in Week 16. While the Bears enter as division champs riding a wave of momentum from Caleb Williams' record-breaking season, the Packers are poised to pull off the upset. Here's why Green Bay will emerge victorious and advance to the divisional round.

Jordan Love's Return is a Game-Changer

The Packers' future hinge on quarterback Jordan Love, who returns after missing the last two regular-season games due to a concussion. In the Week 16 loss to Chicago a 22-16 overtime defeat Love was sidelined, and his absence was felt as the offense struggled to close out the game. Now fully cleared, Love brings his dual-threat ability back to the fold. With over 3,500 passing yards and 25 touchdowns this season, he's proven capable of dissecting defenses, especially against a Bears secondary that's shown vulnerabilities down the stretch. I expect Love to exploit mismatches with receivers like Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs, turning quick slants into big gains and keeping Chicago's aggressive pass rush at bay.

Offensive Firepower and Ground Game Dominance

Green Bay's offense ranks among the league's most balanced, blending a potent passing attack with a punishing run game led by Josh Jacobs. Jacobs has racked up 1,200 rushing yards this year, providing the perfect complement to Love's arm. The Bears' defense, while improved under head coach Ben Johnson, has allowed over 100 points in recent weeks and struggles against physical runners. In their first matchup this season, the Packers controlled the clock with 35 minutes of possession, wearing down Chicago's front seven. Tonight, look for Green Bay to establish the run early, opening up play-action opportunities that could lead to explosive plays.

Historical Dominance and Playoff Pedigree

History favors the Packers in this rivalry, with Green Bay holding a commanding 109-97-6 all-time lead. More importantly, the Packers have won the last 10 straight games at Soldier Field before this season's overtime hiccup. This is Green Bay's third consecutive playoff appearance, giving them an edge in high-stakes environments compared to the Bears, who are making their first postseason trip in five years and seeking their first playoff win since 2010. Under coach Matt LaFleur, the Packers thrive as underdogs, boasting a 6-3 record in playoff games. The pressure of hosting as division champs could weigh on Chicago, especially in a raucous atmosphere where Green Bay fans often travel well.

Final Thoughts: In a rivalry game where anything can happen, the Packers' playoff experience, talent, and resilience will shine through. Prediction: Green Bay 27, Chicago 17. The road to the Super Bowl starts with silencing the Bears at home! Go Pack Go!

(3x-Rated Members Only) Pick: Green Bay Packers -1 (-120)

🍀Best of luck!

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