Chicago Bears Playoff Hopes Hinge on Former Rival Rodgers

2025-12-22 general

Chicago, Monday, 22 December 2025.
Chicago’s postseason fate and financial upside ironically depend on longtime adversary Aaron Rodgers defeating Detroit, compelling Bears fans to support their historic rival to secure a playoff berth.

Unlikely Allies in the NFC North

In a twist of fate that underscores the unpredictable nature of the NFL’s postseason economy, the Chicago Bears find their playoff destiny inextricably linked to Aaron Rodgers, the very quarterback who tormented them for nearly two decades. Following a dramatic overtime victory against the Green Bay Packers on Saturday, December 20, Chicago’s path to mathematically securing a playoff berth narrowed to a specific external outcome: a Pittsburgh Steelers victory over the Detroit Lions [2][6]. For a franchise and fanbase that endured a lopsided rivalry where Rodgers claimed he “owned” the Bears, the current playoff calculus presents a bitter yet necessary pill to swallow—rooting for their longtime nemesis to deliver a crucial win [1][2].

The Saturday Turnaround

The scenario was set in motion by Chicago’s own resilience earlier in the weekend. On Saturday night, the Bears orchestrated one of the most significant comebacks in franchise history, erasing a 10-point deficit near the two-minute warning to defeat the Packers 22-16 in overtime [2]. The victory, punctuated by rookie quarterback Caleb Williams connecting with DJ Moore for a game-winning 46-yard touchdown, propelled the Bears to an 11-4 record and temporarily secured the No. 2 seed in the NFC [2]. However, while this win positioned them atop the NFC North, it did not grant an automatic “x” next to their name in the standings without help from the AFC North-leading Steelers [5][6].

Analyzing the Rodgers Paradox

The dependency on Rodgers is statistically stark. The former Packers signal-caller holds a career record of 24-5 against Chicago, translating to a dominant win rate of 82.759%, a figure that has long haunted the Bears organization [2]. Yet, current market conditions in the NFL favor the “Rodgers asset” this week. Over his last two games leading into the weekend, Rodgers demonstrated high-efficiency output, completing 75% of his passes for 508 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions in victories over the Ravens and Dolphins [2]. Despite the Detroit Lions being favored by 7.5 points, Bears stakeholders are hoping Rodgers can replicate the “Miracle in Motown” magic he displayed ten years ago this month [2].

The Broader Playoff Picture

As of Monday, December 22, the NFC playoff landscape remains fluid. While the Seattle Seahawks (12-3), Philadelphia Eagles (10-5), and Los Angeles Rams (11-4) have already clinched postseason berths, the Bears remain in the hunt for official confirmation alongside the San Francisco 49ers, who face the Indianapolis Colts on Monday night [2][6]. The Eagles secured their second consecutive NFC East title on Saturday with a win over the Commanders, further tightening the race for seeding [5][6]. For Chicago, securing a playoff spot is not merely about prestige; it carries significant financial implications for the franchise, from potential home playoff revenue to merchandise sales spikes associated with a postseason run. The Bears could still capture the No. 1 seed if they win out, but their immediate security remains tied to the performance of an old rival in Pittsburgh [5].

Sources

NFL Chicago Bears