After eight long months, Chicago Bears football is finally back. The Bears will open up their 2023 campaign against the Green Bay Packers this Sunday. While the two teams are no strangers to one another, Aaron’ Rodgers’ departure from Green Bay ushers in a new era of the NFL’s oldest rivalry.
When facing Rodgers, the Bears saw a highly competitive rivalry turn into a one-sided affair. Rodgers went 25-5 against his NFC North foe and held the Bears to only two division titles during his time as a starter.
Fortunately for Chicago, Rodgers is gone, and the Packers have turned to the inexperienced Jordan Love. Fans are hopeful this change resurrects the competitive rivalry the two teams enjoyed in the 20th century.
Both teams are coming off disappointing 2022 seasons that saw them finish third and fourth in the NFC North. The Bears were one of the most active teams this offseason, making several key acquisitions via free agency and the draft. Coming off a three-win season, the team is looking to dig themselves out of the basement of the NFC North and move a step closer to playoff contention.
With the exception of trading Rodgers, the Packers didn’t make any major moves to improve their roster this spring. Instead, the team is hopeful that restored health will be enough to get them back to the playoffs.
With opening day just a few days away, here are the most important matchups to watch for