Kevin Byard sure sounds like he's moving on from historic Bears win over Packers

The Chicago Bears exorcised a lot of demons when they beat the Green Bay Packers in the NFC Wild Card game.

It was their first playoff game since 2020 and their first home game since 2019. Still, both of those resulted in losses, and the 2019 season ended in a way that haunts fans.

Their last playoff win was in 2010, and even that season ended with a loss to the Green Bay Packers. So, it makes sense that not only fans, but players and coaches felt the weight of the city when they beat their rivals in the Wild Card round.

Not only did they win, but they did it in thrilling fashion, making it a game that no one will forget. This season has already been viewed as a success, but the Bears cannot treat it that way. They have a huge game to play this weekend against a team that is better on paper than the Packers.

Kevin Byard is a long-time veteran in this league and serves as the veteran leader in the locker room. Byard has made it clear that the message is to get over Green Bay and stop thinking about it.

Kevin Byard is ready to move on from Packers game

That is easy to do, but harder to execute. This is a young team. Ben Johnson is a first-year coach, Caleb Williams just won his first playoff game, and his best pass catcher is now a rookie tight end. They may not show it or say it, but this is all new to them, and it may be the difference. 

On the other side, the Los Angeles Rams just got a scare on the road. They played sloppily but survived, so you know they'll be tighter and more focused this week. The Bears cannot lose the mental edge against a team they are already expected to beat. 

Read more: Ben Johnson surprisingly told it like it is when answering Caleb Williams question

A win will not only be impressive given the upset, but it will also show mental maturity from the head coach and quarterback that may excite fans for years to come.