The Green Bay Packers defeated the Chicago Bears 17-9 on Sunday to clinch a playoff berth in the final week of the 2023 NFL regular season. Led by second-year quarterback Jordan Love in his first season as a starter, the Packers relied on a strong defensive performance and just enough offense to punch their ticket to the postseason.
Playoff Position Secured in Defensive Battle
In a game where points were hard to come by, the Packers’ defense set the tone. They sacked Bears quarterback Justin Fields 4 times and held Chicago to just 9 points. The Bears moved the ball at times but struggled to finish drives. Meanwhile, Green Bay’s offense did just enough, with Love throwing for 224 yards and rookie wide receiver Donnyvion Wicks catching 5 passes for 104 yards.
A 39-yard field goal before halftime gave the Packers a 10-6 lead. They extended it to 17-6 early in the fourth quarter on a 16-yard touchdown pass from Love to Wicks. The Bears added a late field goal but couldn’t complete the comeback.
“Our defense played great and kept us in striking distance,” Love said after the game. “It was a total team win and I’m happy we took care of business to make the playoffs.”
Postseason Journey Starts in Dallas
By winning, the Packers clinched the 7th and final NFC playoff spot. They’ll travel to Dallas next weekend to face the Cowboys in the Wild Card round. The two teams met in Week 10 this season, with Dallas earning a 31-28 overtime win at Lambeau Field.
That game was also the first of Love’s career. He’s improved considerably since then. And with the Packers getting healthier and peaking at the right time, they have reason for optimism heading into the rematch.
“We know it’ll be a tough game in Dallas but we like our chances,” Packers coach Matt LaFleur said. “Our guys have a lot of belief and confidence right now and we’re ready for the challenge.”
| 2023 NFC Playoff Bracket |
|---|
| 1. Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) |
| 2. San Francisco 49ers (13-4) |
| 3. Minnesota Vikings (13-4) |
| 4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9) |
| 5. Dallas Cowboys (12-5) |
| 6. New York Giants (9-7-1) |
| 7. Green Bay Packers (8-9) |
The game will kick off at 3:30 p.m. CT on Sunday. It’ll be broadcast nationally on Fox.
Packers Rally Around Love in First Season as Starter
Love took over this season after 4-time MVP Aaron Rodgers decided to step away last offseason. Thrust into the starting role with big shoes to fill, Love experienced the typical growing pains of a young QB. But he grew more comfortable as the season went on.
Over the last several weeks, Love played efficient football while limiting mistakes. He also bonded with his young receiving corps, especially developing chemistry with rookies Wicks and Christian Watson.
Sunday was Love’s best performance to date. He made a number of impressive throws, including a few deep shots to move the chains. Love also used his legs to make plays, rushing for 43 yards. Most importantly, he protected the football with zero turnovers.
“I’m just so happy for Jordan and proud of the growth he’s shown,” LaFleur said. “This is an awesome start to what I expect to be a very good career for him.”
Veteran leaders like Aaron Jones, AJ Dillon, Randall Cobb and others also embraced mentoring roles to support Love through the challenges of his first year starting. Their leadership and guidance played a big part in keeping the team united and focused.
“The veterans on this squad have been so great to me,” Love said. “It’s been a team effort to get to this point and we’re all excited to keep this thing going.”
Brighter Days Ahead for Bears Despite Losing Season
While the Packers celebrated, the Bears reflected on a season that didn’t go as hoped. They finished 3-14 under first-year head coach Matt Eberflus. Franchise quarterback Justin Fields showed flashes of his potential but dealt with injuries and growing pains behind a porous offensive line.
The loss ensured the Bears will have the #1 overall pick in April’s NFL Draft. They’re expected to use it on a blue-chip offensive line prospect to better protect Fields moving forward. Some early names being mocked to Chicago include Will Anderson Jr., Paris Johnson Jr. and Peter Skoronski.
Despite the losing record, the Bears believe they have the culture, leadership and young talent in place for brighter days soon.
“This season wasn’t what we wanted but we all feel like we have the right pieces to turn this thing around quickly,” tight end Cole Kmet said. “We’ll add a few more in the draft and come back stronger next season.”
What’s Next
The Packers will travel to Dallas seeking their first playoff win since 2020. They’ll need to contain a loaded Cowboys offense led by Dak Prescott. On the flip side, Green Bay’s offense aims to carry over its momentum from the Bears game.
Most national analysts view Dallas as clear favorites at home. But the Packers have enough talent, momentum and belief to pull off an upset. Their postseason experience and knack for peaking late in seasons can’t be discounted either.
One thing is certain — the Packers are back in a familiar position, needing to win 3 straight games to reach another Super Bowl. Doing so would further cement Jordan Love’s status as the franchise QB and silence doubters.
As for the Bears, their attention now shifts to the draft and free agency. An eventful offseason lies ahead that will shape the roster for years to come. Expect Chicago to aggressively address glaring needs on both lines of scrimmage as the team enters a crucial developmental period for Justin Fields and others.
If selections hit and investments pay dividends, the Monsters of the Midway could quickly reemerge as contenders in the NFC North.
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