The NFC Divisional Round continues Sunday with a high-powered matchup between the Chicago Bears and Los Angeles Rams.
These teams meet in the postseason for the first time since the 1985 NFC Championship Game, when Mike Ditka’s Bears shut out the Rams 24-0 en route to their Super Bowl XX title. This time around, it’s a much different NFL: both squads boast top-10 scoring offenses and multi-threat attacks, setting the stage for a potentially explosive showdown at Soldier Field, though cold and windy conditions could play a major factor.
Caleb Williams and the Bears offense look to sustain excellence. Chicago has thrived in late-game situations, including a dramatic 18-point Wild Card comeback against Green Bay, marking their seventh win of the season when trailing in the final two minutes—two more than any team since 1983. Williams has excelled on pivotal downs, producing a 128.5 passer rating and seven passing touchdowns on third downs when trailing in 2025, including the playoffs. The Rams defense, however, has shown cracks in the second half of the season, allowing 28.3 points per game since Week 13, including five of seven games over 27 points. Chicago’s ability to exploit those defensive lapses will be critical.
Matthew Stafford aims to put up an MVP-worthy performance for the Rams. The veteran QB led the NFL with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns in 2025, utilizing a full arsenal of weapons in Puka Nacua, Davante Adams, tight ends, and a dual-threat backfield with Kyren Williams and Blake Corum. Stafford has a postseason streak of 200-plus passing yards and two-plus touchdowns in his last eight playoff games, second only to Aaron Rodgers since 1970. Turnovers remain a concern, as Stafford has coughed up six interceptions and two fumbles in four of L.A.’s five losses. Chicago’s defense, which led the NFL with 33 takeaways, thrives on forcing mistakes, and limiting turnovers could be the key for the Rams.
Weather could be a factor in the Windy City. Sunday night’s forecast calls for temperatures in the 10-15 degree range with wind gusts of 20-30 mph, bringing wind chills below zero. Cold and wind may slow offensive rhythm and complicate special teams. Bears kicker Cairo Santos has been flawless at home, going 7-for-8 on field goals in the past four games, including both 50-plus yard attempts. Rams kicker Harrison Mevis has been reliable since taking over in Week 10 but has had limited attempts from long range. Field position and kicking could play a decisive role if the contest is close.
Injury Report
Rams
Darious Williams (CB, personal) did not practice Wednesday. Kevin Dotson (OL, ankle) and Poona Ford (NT, elbow) practiced with limitations at least one day. Matthew Stafford (QB, finger), Xavier Smith (WR, wrist), Josh Wallace (CB, ankle), Terrance Ferguson (TE, hamstring), and Quentin Lake (S, foot) all practiced fully. Jimmy Garoppolo (QB, back) did not practice Thursday.
Bears
C.J. Gardner-Johnson (DB, concussion), Braxton Jones (OL, knee), Amen Ogbongbemiga (LB, concussion), and Joe Tryon-Shoyinka (DL, concussion) practiced fully. DJ Moore (WR, knee), Rome Odunze (WR, foot), and Jalen Reeves-Maybin (LB, back) practiced with limitations. Nick McCloud (DB, groin) did not practice.
