Bears Host Rams in NFC Divisional Showdown After Historic Turnaround

CHICAGO, January 18, 2026 – The Chicago Bears, fresh off their first playoff victory since 2010, host the Los Angeles Rams tonight in the NFC Divisional Round at Soldier Field. The Bears’ remarkable turnaround from a 5-12 season in 2024 to NFC North champions represents one of the NFL’s most dramatic single-season improvements, fueled by quarterback Caleb Williams’ development and an aggressive offseason roster overhaul.

From Rebuild to Contender

The Bears’ transformation began with the January 2025 hiring of head coach Ben Johnson, who brought an offensive system that unlocked Williams’ potential. General Manager Ryan Poles supplemented the young quarterback with key additions including wide receiver Keenan Allen, running back D’Andre Swift, and tight end Gerald Everett. The 2025 draft class, featuring first-round tight end Colston Loveland and second-round receiver Luther Burden III, provided immediate impact.

Chicago’s 11-6 regular season record marked their first winning campaign since 2018, ending a seven-year playoff drought. Their Wild Card victory over division rival Green Bay exorcised decades of postseason demons and set up tonight’s showdown with Matthew Stafford and the Rams.

Key Roster Transactions & Season Timeline

Williams’ Ascension

Caleb Williams, the 2024 first overall pick, overcame a difficult rookie season that included 68 sacks and midseason coaching changes. Under Johnson’s guidance, Williams developed into a franchise quarterback, leading six fourth-quarter combacks during the regular season and orchestrating the game-winning drive against Green Bay. His connection with receivers DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, and Keenan Allen has given Chicago its most potent passing attack in franchise history.

Defensive Reinforcements

The Bears’ defense, anchored by Montez Sweat and Jaylon Johnson, underwent significant changes throughout the season. Key additions included safety C.J. Gardner-Johnson and defensive end Joe Tryon-Shoyinka via trade. Despite injuries to linebackers T.J. Edwards and Amen Ogbongbemiga, defensive coordinator Dennis Allen has crafted units that excel at creating turnovers, a critical factor in tonight’s matchup against Stafford’s precision passing.

Weather Factor

Forecasts predict temperatures near -12°C (10°F) at kickoff, with wind chills potentially dropping to -18°C (0°F). The Bears have practiced in cold conditions all week, while the Rams arrived from temperate Los Angeles. Chicago’s ground game, featuring Swift and rookie Kyle Monangai, could prove decisive in frigid conditions that may limit downfield passing.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Bears’ last playoff win before this season?

The Bears defeated the Seattle Seahawks 35-24 in the 2010 NFC Divisional Round. They had lost three consecutive playoff games since, including the 2018 Wild Card loss to Philadelphia.

How has Caleb Williams improved from his rookie season?

Williams reduced his sacks from 68 to 42, increased his completion percentage from 62.5% to 66.8%, and threw 28 touchdowns against 8 interceptions in 2025 compared to 20 touchdowns and 6 interceptions as a rookie.

What injuries are affecting the Bears for tonight’s game?

Wide receiver Rome Odunze (foot) and linebacker T.J. Edwards (lower leg) are questionable but expected to play. Offensive tackle Ozzy Trapilo and defensive tackle Shemar Turner are on injured reserve.

How did the Bears fare against the Rams during the regular season?

The teams did not meet during the 2025 regular season. Their last meeting was in 2024, when the Rams defeated the Bears 30-13 in Week 4.