Even just the subtlest comments are enough to know that a rivalry has ramped up to new heights not seen in a long time.
The Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers are about to play in what many are considering the most meaningful game in the rivalry in over 10 years. This season is different, not just because the Bears and Packers are both good in 2025, but because Chicago head coach Ben Johnson's introductory comments about beating Packers head coach Matt LaFleur have lingered for Green Bay.
Those comments did not sit well with many within the Packers' organization, as this week has been about defending LaFleur's honor. Packers offensive coordinator Adam Stenavich was one who still hasn't forgotten about it.
"Yeah, you take it personal for sure. I'll just leave it at that."
Just add it to the laundry list of bulletin board material for Bears
The Packers have certainly done a lot of talking this week ahead of the game. From Micah Parsons' comments on the Bears earning respect to Stenavich's response on Johnson's comments, Green Bay seems to be talking louder about the rivalry than the Bears are.
That's because Chicago is more focused on winning the game. The Bears know how important this game is to the franchise, both as a rivalry and a playoff matter.
Going into Week 14, the Bears are 9-3 and in first place in the NFC North and NFC. They have the Packers nipping at their heels with an 8-3-1 record on the season.
Green Bay can do all its talking, but Johnson's team is all about showing action on the field. They already said what they needed to say, which should be added that Johnson's comments about LaFleur were only accurate.
Read more: Nahshon Wright poured his heart out in response to Bears coach's impact
From having the top running game in the league to creating the most turnovers this season with 26, the Bears have all the ammo needed to challenge the Packers in ways they haven't done in over a decade. This is the same old Bears. These guys are hungry for a win.