Bears make awesome move for Patriots game

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Bears make awesome move for Patriots game

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Oct 22, 2026 11:04 AM ET

The Chicago Bears will host the New England Patriots on Thursday at Soldier Field. However, it won’t be just any regular-season game as they’ll make an awesome move on the night in honor of Mike Ditka.

The legendary Bears coach and player died on Oct. 9. The players will also have special patches on their uniforms for him. Ditka played for Chicago for six seasons before moving to the Philadelphia Eagles and ending his playing career with the Dallas Cowboys. He then became the Bears’ head coach in 1982 and won the 1986 Super Bowl. He remained with the franchise until 1992.

The Bears are coming off a 31-23 win in Week 6 over the Atlanta Falcons. Caleb Williams returned after missing the three previous games, recording 30-of-36 completions for 305 yards and one touchdown. They are aiming to make it back-to-back victories and improve to 5-2 for the season.

Chicago Bears head coach Mike Ditka on the sideline against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl XX at the Louisiana Superdome.

Chicago Bears will honor Mike Ditka in Week 7 matchup with Patriots

Chicago will give out fake moustaches to all fans in attendance for the “Thursday Night Football” game. A moment of silence will also be observed to pay tribute to Ditka. Additionally, the team will place a stencil of Ditka on the Soldier Field grass, and the first 10,000 fans to arrive at the venue will receive a Bears knit headband. It is inspired by the legendary coach’s iconic sweater vest.

The Patriots game marks the Bears’ first home fixture since Ditka’s passing. They went 1-1 in their recently-concluded road trip versus the Green Bay Packers and Falcons. Williams’ return was a big boost as he commanded the offense well, distributing the football between the receivers and backfield.

The team won the NFC North in 2025 with an 11-6 record and reached the Divisional Round. However, the Bears are hungrier this season and want to surpass their achievements last year. Thursday’s game is one of seven primetime games they’ll play this campaign.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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