Zielinski: Packers won’t fall into Bears trap

By DAN ZIELINSKI

The Packers have faced significant challenges within the NFC North this season, as they are winless in their four combined games against the Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions.

Even against the Chicago Bears, the Packers narrowly escaped defeat in their first matchup, relying on a crucial blocked field goal to secure the victory.

On Sunday, the Packers will try to sweep the season series against the Bears. The Packers also need to win and have the Washington Commanders lose in Dallas to secure the No. 6 seed and avoid a trip to Philadelphia in the first round of the NFC playoffs.

The Bears have lost 11 straight games to the Packers and would love to hand them their second consecutive loss heading into the playoffs.

Packers coach Matt LaFleur emphasized the importance of playing his starters this week to rebound from last week’s disappointing loss in Minnesota. In that game, the Packers struggled with sloppy execution, particularly in the passing game on offense and pass defense.

They fell behind by 17 points twice in the second half before staging a late rally that fell short. LaFleur acknowledged the need to improve his sideline composure and focus on putting quarterback Jordan Love in better positions to succeed.

With the playoffs approaching, the Packers must build momentum. However, the Bears pose a serious challenge with their talent and strong motivation to defeat a longtime rival.

This matchup will likely be closer than expected, but the Packers are poised to prevail and finish the regular season on a high note.

Prediction: Packers 27, Bears 20