Century of Clashes: Ranking the Top 5 Packers vs. Bears Games in NFL History | AfterTheSnap.com
The Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears. For over a century, this rivalry has defined the NFL, etched in the hearts of fans and the history books alike. With 210 games played since 1921, it’s the most-played matchup in league history, a testament to its enduring intensity. Separated by just a few hours of driving, these teams represent distinct cultures, yet share an undeniable passion for football. The Packers hold a slight edge in the series, with a 108-96-6 record, but the battles have been legendary. Let’s dive into the top 5 games that truly embody this historic Century of Clashes.
5. December 29, 2013: Packers 33, Bears 28 – A Rodgers’ Return and a Division Title
In 2013, the NFC North title came down to a Week 17 showdown at Soldier Field. Aaron Rodgers had been sidelined with a broken collarbone, and the Packers’ season hung in the balance. The Bears, led by quarterback Jay Cutler, were looking to secure their first division crown since 2010.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with multiple lead changes. Chicago led 28-27 with under a minute remaining. Facing a crucial 4th-and-8, Rodgers connected with Randall Cobb on a 48-yard touchdown, securing the win and the NFC North title for Green Bay. This game showcased Rodgers’ brilliance and Cobb’s clutch performance, solidifying its place in the rivalry’s history.
4. January 23, 2011: NFC Championship Game – Packers 21, Bears 14 – Road to Super Bowl XLV
The 2010 NFC Championship marked the first playoff meeting between these two storied franchises since 1941. The stakes were high: a trip to Super Bowl XLV. The Packers, led by Aaron Rodgers, entered Soldier Field as slight underdogs against a Bears team quarterbacked by Jay Cutler.
Green Bay’s defense set the tone early, forcing turnovers and disrupting Chicago’s offense. Rodgers threw for 244 yards and two touchdowns, while B.J. Raji’s memorable interception return for a touchdown sealed the victory. Despite a late surge by the Bears, the Packers held on to win 21-14, propelling them to their eventual Super Bowl victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers.
3. September 7, 1980: Packers 12, Bears 6 (OT) – The Marcol Miracle
This Week 1 matchup at Lambeau Field is etched in Packers’ lore thanks to one of the most bizarre plays in NFL history. The game was a defensive struggle, with both teams struggling to find the end zone. In overtime, the Packers lined up for a game-winning field goal attempt.
Chester Marcol’s kick was blocked by Alan Page, but the ball bounced right back to Marcol. In a moment of pure instinct, Marcol caught the ball and took off running, dodging defenders and eventually diving into the end zone for the game-winning touchdown. The image of Marcol running with the ball teetering on his helmet remains an iconic moment in Packers-Bears history.
2. November 7, 1999: Bears 14, Packers 13 – A Blocked Kick for Walter Payton
This game, played at Lambeau Field, carried immense emotional weight. Just six days prior, the legendary Walter Payton had passed away. The Bears, seeking to honor their fallen icon, faced a Packers team that had dominated the series for years.
The game was a defensive battle, with neither team able to establish a significant lead. With seconds remaining, the Packers lined up for a game-winning field goal attempt. However, Bears defensive lineman Bryan Robinson leaped high and blocked the kick, securing a 14-13 victory for Chicago. Robinson later said, “I think Walter Payton picked me up, because I can’t jump that high.” The win snapped a 10-game losing streak to the Packers and provided a cathartic moment for Bears fans.
1. December 7, 1980: Bears 61, Packers 7 – A Dominant Display
While many games in this rivalry are remembered for their nail-biting finishes, this one stands out for its sheer dominance. The Bears, led by running back Walter Payton and quarterback Vince Evans, unleashed an offensive onslaught at Soldier Field.
Payton rushed for 130 yards and three touchdowns, while Evans posted a perfect passer rating. The Bears scored eight offensive touchdowns and dominated every facet of the game. The 61-7 final score remains the largest margin of victory in the history of this storied rivalry, a testament to the Bears’ dominance on that December day.
The Bears and Packers have been rivals in the same conference or division since the NFL adopted its conference structure in 1933 season. They were part of the NFL’s Western Conference from 1933 until 1970. Following the AFL–NFL merger, the Bears and Packers were assigned to the National Football Conference (NFC) and the NFC Central, which was later rebranded as the NFC North during the 2002 NFL season. The Bears maintained a dominant winning record over the Packers for several decades, at two times leading the series by as many as 24 games.
The Century of Clashes between the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears is more than just a football rivalry; it’s a cultural phenomenon. These five games represent the passion, intensity, and unforgettable moments that have defined this historic matchup for over a century. From miraculous plays to dominant performances, the Packers-Bears rivalry continues to deliver drama and excitement for NFL fans everywhere.