Green Bay Packers 2022 opponent preview: Chicago Bears

Under Matt LaFleur, the Green Bay Packers have dominated the Chicago Bears, winning all six of their matchups.

Green Bay’s home opener comes against its old rivals this season.

Can the Packers expect a tougher challenge in 2022?

Last season

It proved to be another difficult season in the Windy City with the Bears finishing 6-11. Head coach Matt Nagy and general manager Ryan Pace were fired at the end of the year.

As we’ve seen in recent years, Chicago’s defense remained strong, ranking No. 6 overall.

The problems came on offense. The Bears averaged just 18.3 points per game, which ranked No. 27.

When are the games?

The Packers host the Chicago Bears for their home opener in Week 2. It will be a primetime game, played on Sunday Night Football with a 7:20 p.m. CT kickoff time on Sunday, Sept. 18.

The second meeting doesn’t take place until Week 13. That game will be played at Soldier Field at noon CT on Sunday, Dec. 4.

Offseason additions/departures

The Bears have hit the reset button and lost a lot of key players this offseason.

Chicago traded All-Pro edge rusher Khalil Mack to the Los Angeles Chargers. Pro Bowl defensive lineman Akiem Hicks remains a free agent. Wide receiver Allen Robinson signed with the Los Angeles Rams.

The Bears signed a couple of former Packers: guard Lucas Patrick and wide receiver Equanimeous St. Brown.

Chicago focused on strengthening the secondary in the draft, selecting cornerback Kyler Gordon and safety Jaquan Brisker in the second round.

Overall, the Bears could take a step back in 2022 after losing some key players. The rebuild is underway.

Last meeting with Packers

December 12, 2021: Packers won 45-30 at Lambeau Field

Player to watch

Justin Fields: The Bears haven’t done much to help Fields out this offseason, but his development is going to be important. Will he take a big step in year two?