The Chicago Bears have stunned the NFL world: after a commanding Black Friday win over the reigning champions Philadelphia Eagles, Chicago has ascended to the NFC’s top seed. That win pushed their record to 9–3 — the best start for the Bears since 2010. With the calendar now December, the Bears face a pivotal stretch of games, but for the moment, they sit atop the conference with momentum on their side.
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Bears Clinch No. 1 Seed with Key Win and Help From Other Teams
On Friday night, Chicago delivered a 24–15 road win over Philadelphia, a performance many saw as the tipping point of their season. That victory — paired with a loss by Los Angeles Rams to the Carolina Panthers — handed the Bears the tiebreaker and propelled them into the conference’s top slot. With a 6-2 conference record, they now hold the coveted first-round bye position should the standings hold.
This shift represents a major turn for a team that entered the season with modest expectations: after a 5–12 finish in 2024, many projected the Bears merely to be playing “meaningful football” in November, rather than leading the NFC.
New Leadership, New Energy — The Ben Johnson Effect
A crucial factor behind this unexpected surge is the leadership of first-year head coach Ben Johnson. Under his guidance, Chicago’s offense has flourished: both passing and rushing attacks have improved dramatically, transforming the Bears from a rebuilding squad into a playoff contender. Longtime skeptics are beginning to take notice.
It’s not just about numbers — the attitude has shifted, too. Chicago enters December not as a team biding time, but as one actively controlling its playoff destiny.
A Thin Margin for Error: Key Challenges Ahead
Still, analysts point out that the Bears’ rise comes with caveats. Their schedule has been criticized as one of the softer slates in the league — and defensive metrics remain middling at best. Critics argue that Chicago’s success owes much to turnovers and favorable matchups rather than dominance on both sides of the ball.
Now, as they prepare for a tough upcoming stretch — including visits from rivals and playoff-caliber clubs — the Bears must prove their stay at the top is no fluke.
Next Up: Rivalry Showdown vs. Green Bay Packers
This Sunday, Chicago travels to storied Lambeau Field to face the Green Bay Packers. The game carries high stakes: not only does it influence division bragging rights, it could further solidify the Bears’ grip on the No. 1 seed — or toss the NFC race wide open again.
A win would boost confidence and put the Bears one step closer to weeks off and a home playoff berth. But a loss could erode their lead in a crowded, competitive conference.
What This Means for Bears Nation
For fans in Chicago — and across the league — the 2025 season has suddenly taken on new life. A win over a top opponent. A jump to the conference summit. Real playoff positioning. The Bears are no longer sleepers. They’re contenders.
But this moment marks the beginning of the true test. Maintain consistency. Deliver on defense. Stay composed under pressure.
Let me know what you think — can this Chicago squad stay on top and make a deep playoff run?