Key Takeaways
- The Date: The NFL confirmed the Bears will host the NFC Divisional Round game on Sunday, January 18.
- The Time: Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m. ET on FOX, giving the Bears the premier primetime slot of the weekend.
- The Opponent: Chicago awaits the winner of today’s Lions vs. Rams game.
CHICAGO — The NFL knows where the ratings are.
Following a record-breaking viewership number for the Wild Card round, the league has wasted no time putting Caleb Williams back in the spotlight. The official schedule release confirms that Soldier Field will host the finale of the Divisional Round next Sunday night.
The Scenarios: Who Comes to Chicago?
Bears fans will be glued to their TVs this afternoon (Lions vs. Rams, 4:30 p.m. ET) to find out who they are playing.
Scenario A: The “Civil War” (Lions Win)
If Detroit beats Los Angeles, we get an NFC North trilogy. The Bears and Lions split the season series 1-1. A playoff game between these two franchises—with both teams arguably at their peak—would be the hottest ticket in the history of the rivalry.
Scenario B: The “Style Clash” (Rams Win)
If Matthew Stafford and the Rams win, it becomes a battle of styles. The Rams’ high-flying, dome-built offense would have to travel to the frozen lakefront to face the Bears’ bruising defense. Plus, Stafford returning to Chicago (where he played for 12 years as a Lion) adds a juicy narrative layer.
Ticket Prices Explode
The secondary market reacted instantly to the announcement. According to Ticketmaster:
- Cheapest Ticket (Get-in): Jumped from $350 to $585 in ten minutes.
- 50-Yard Line (Club Level): Currently listing for $2,500+ per seat.
Advantage: Chicago
The Sunday slot is a massive win for the Bears. It gives them:
- Maximum Rest: Having played Saturday, they get an extra day of recovery compared to their opponent (who plays today).
- Night Atmosphere: As we saw last night, Soldier Field at night is a different animal. The lights, the cold, and the “Club Dub” energy are amplified after dark.
Mark your calendars: Sunday Night. Soldier Field. A trip to the NFC Championship on the line.
