Chicago Bears’ playoff-clinching scenarios for Week 16

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Evan Massey | Last updated Dec 16, 2025 2:15 PM ET

The Chicago Bears have had an incredible season thus far and enter Week 16 with a 10-4 record and the lead in the NFC North division race. Once again this week, the Bears will take on the arch-rival Green Bay Packers.

After losing to the Packers on the road at Lambeau Field just two short weeks ago, Chicago has revenge on its mind. A win over Green Bay would give the Bears an extremely good chance of winning the NFC North division and punching a ticket into the playoffs.

In fact, there is a chance that Chicago could clinch a spot in the playoffs this week.

Ben Johnson and the Bears would clinch a playoff spot this week if they can defeat Green Bay and if the Detroit Lions lose or tie in their game. Another way to clinch would be for Chicago to tie and for the Lions to lose.

Whether or not the Bears clinch this week or not, they’re feeling very good about their chances. In the first year under Johnson, Chicago has looked like a potential Super Bowl contender. There is still a lot to prove come playoff time, but the team has not slowed down as the season has progressed.

Nov 16, 2025; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson stands on the sidelines during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeffrey Becker-Imagn Images

It has been a long time since the Bears were a top-tier team in the NFC. They haven’t won the NFC North division since the 2018 campaign. Being able to get back on track this season would be a huge breath of fresh air for the city of Chicago.

With that being said, beating the Packers will be no easy task. Granted, Micah Parsons is out for the season due to a torn ACL, but Green Bay is still a very talented team. The Bears will need to bring their best in order to defend home field.

Losing to the Packers would be a tough blow that Chicago cannot afford. Hopefully, the Bears are up to the challenge and can take care of business on Saturday night.

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

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