Seven years later, it finally happened again.
The Chicago Bears are division champions.
Last Saturday already felt special. The Bears beat the Green Bay Packers 22 to 16 in overtime. That win locked up their first playoff spot since 2020. Fans were still celebrating when more good news arrived.
In Week 17, the Baltimore Ravens went into Green Bay and won. They beat the Packers 41 to 24. That loss changed everything.
With that result, the Bears officially clinched the NFC North title for the first time since 2018. That also guarantees at least one home playoff game at Soldier Field.
For Chicago, this is a huge moment.
It is especially big for quarterback Caleb Williams. The former USC star has helped lead a stunning turnaround. Under head coach Ben Johnson, the Bears look nothing like they did last season.
With two games left, Chicago sits at 11 and 4. They have won two straight. They are playing with confidence.
There is still a small chance the Bears could earn the NFC’s top seed. That would mean a first round bye and home games throughout the playoffs. It is possible, but the second seed is more realistic.
Either way, the most important part is already secured.
The Bears are in the playoffs.
That does not happen often in Chicago. When it does, expectations rise quickly. With the talent around Williams, fans are already wondering if this can become a regular thing.
For now, the focus is on what is next.
Ben Johnson said this week that reaching the playoffs was a major step in the team’s plan. He said the first goal was reaching 11 wins. That number has always meant the postseason. The second goal was winning the division. That box is now checked.
The third goal is still out there.
Johnson said the players know there is more to chase.
