Green Bay Packers 2021 opponent preview: Chicago Bears
The Green Bay Packers have dominated the old rivalry with the Chicago Bears in recent years.
Under head coach Matt LaFleur, Green Bay is a perfect 4-0 against Chicago. After a strong offseason on paper, can the Bears close the gap at the top of the NFC North and end LaFleur’s undefeated start against them?
The first meeting is relatively early in the season but the Packers then get to play the Bears on a cold December evening at Lambeau Field.
Last season
The expansion of the playoffs benefited the Bears as they secured the NFC’s seventh seed despite only finishing 8-8. It only extended their season by an additional week, however, as they were eliminated 21-9 by the New Orleans Saints in the wild-card round.
When are the games?
The Packers first take on the Bears at Soldier Field in Week 6. That game is on Sunday, Oct. 17 at 12 noon CT.
The second meeting is immediately after Green Bay’s bye and will be played in Week 14 on Sunday Night Football. That game is on Sunday, Dec. 13 at 7:20 p.m. CT.
Offseason additions/departures
The Bears signed quarterback Andy Dalton, which was surprising with Nick Foles on the roster, and especially when they drafted Justin Fields in the first round. Even if Dalton is an upgrade on Foles and starts in the short term, there’s no reason why they couldn’t have gone with Foles as the starter until Fields is ready.
They also made the surprising move to release former All-Pro cornerback Kyle Fuller, who reunited with Vic Fangio by signing with the Denver Broncos.
Despite a strange free agency period, the Bears did put together a good draft class, headlined by the Fields pick. They moved up to get tackle Teven Jenkins in the second round. He has he potential to become a longtime starter for the Bears.
Last meeting with Packers
January 3, 2021: Packers won 35-16 at Soldier Field
Player to watch
Justin Fields: Even if Fields doesn’t play in the first game against the Packers, surely the Bears will turn to him at some point this season. It’s a decision they shouldn’t rush, but this is the Bears. Matt Nagy is under pressure. If the team gets off to a slow start, how long will it be before Fields gets to start?
There’s a reason why they traded up to get him in the first round. Fields has star potential and could finally be the QB the Bears need.