The Chicago Bears are writing one of the NFL’s most compelling comeback stories this season - and rookie quarterback Caleb Williams is right at the heart of it.
On Saturday, Williams delivered another signature moment in what’s quickly becoming a breakout campaign, leading the Bears to a gritty 22-16 overtime win over the Green Bay Packers. That victory didn’t just add another W to the standings - it dealt a serious blow to the Packers’ playoff hopes and kept Chicago’s own postseason dreams very much alive.
Now, with just one win needed from their final two games, the Bears are on the brink of something that would’ve sounded unthinkable a few months ago: an NFC North title. If they manage to clinch it in Week 18, they’d not only split the season series with the Detroit Lions, but potentially knock their division rivals out of playoff contention altogether - depending on how Week 17 shakes out.
But before we get to that, there’s a massive test looming in Week 17. The Bears head west to face a red-hot San Francisco 49ers squad that’s riding a five-game win streak.
It’s a true measuring stick game, and it’s happening under the bright lights of Sunday Night Football. Kickoff is set for 8:20 p.m.
ET on NBC, with streaming available on Peacock - no need to hunt down a Prime Video or NFL Network feed for this one.
This matchup has major implications not just for the Bears, but for the entire NFC playoff picture. The Packers, still clinging to postseason hope, will take on the Baltimore Ravens on Saturday night. A Green Bay win keeps their division hopes alive - at least until the Bears take the field Sunday.
But make no mistake: all eyes will be on Caleb Williams and this surging Bears team. What they’ve done over the back half of the season has flipped the narrative. A team that looked like it was headed for another rebuild is now playing meaningful football in December, with a shot at hosting a playoff game if they can finish strong.
So while Week 17 is packed with marquee matchups - including three games on Christmas Day and a Saturday night doubleheader - the Bears’ showdown with the 49ers is appointment viewing. It’s not just about playoff math or scoreboard watching anymore. It’s about momentum, identity, and proving they belong on the big stage.
For now, Bears fans can savor the holiday season knowing their team is still in the hunt - and playing their best football when it matters most.