Century-Old Grudge: Will the 2025 Bears-Packers Rematch Reignite the NFL’s Most Historic Rivalry?

The chill of December will carry more than just winter’s bite this year as the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers prepare to clash once again. This isn’t just another game; it’s a renewal of the NFL’s most enduring feud, a rivalry etched in the very foundations of professional football. With the 2025 season promising a fresh chapter for both teams, the question on every fan’s mind is: Can this rematch truly reignite the flames of this historic rivalry?

A Rivalry Forged in the Roaring Twenties

The Bears-Packers rivalry isn’t just old; it’s ancient by NFL standards. Their first meeting dates back to November 27, 1921, when George Halas’s Chicago Staleys (later to become the Bears) blanked Curly Lambeau’s Green Bay Packers 20-0. This initial encounter sparked a series that has spanned over a century, weathering countless changes in the game, the league, and the world.

Since that first game, the two teams have clashed 210 times, the most of any two teams in NFL history. The Packers hold a slight edge in the series with a 108-96-6 record. These numbers, however, only tell a fraction of the story. This rivalry is about legendary players, iconic games, and the unwavering passion of two fan bases separated by a mere 200 miles of Midwestern landscape.

Recent History: A Lopsided Affair?

In recent years, the rivalry has been dominated by the Green Bay Packers. The Packers had won 11 straight games against the Bears, which was the longest winning streak by either team in the history of the series. However, the Bears finally snapped that losing streak in the final game of the 2024 season, winning 24-22 thanks to a last-second field goal.

Before that, the Bears had only won four of their last 30 games against the Packers since 2010. This period of dominance has led some to question whether the rivalry still holds the same weight it once did. Can the Bears rise to the occasion and restore the balance of power?

2025: A Season of Renewed Hope?

The 2025 season brings a sense of optimism to Chicago. The Bears have made significant changes, most notably hiring Ben Johnson as their new head coach and Dennis Allen as defensive coordinator. The arrival of Johnson, known for his offensive prowess, is expected to unlock the full potential of quarterback Caleb Williams.

ESPN has even listed the Bears among the most improved teams in the league, citing the upgrades made by General Manager Ryan Poles on both sides of the ball. These additions, coupled with a promising young quarterback, have raised expectations in the Windy City.

The Packers: A New Era in Green Bay

Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers are navigating their own transition. With Jordan Love firmly entrenched as the starting quarterback, the Packers are looking to build on their recent success. After finishing with an 11-6 record in 2024, the Packers are hoping to make the playoffs for the third straight year.

The Packers’ offense, led by Love, will be a force to be reckoned with. The team also drafted a wide receiver in the first round of the NFL Draft for the first time since 2002, adding another weapon to Love’s arsenal.

Week 14 & 16: Dates with Destiny

The 2025 season will feature two Bears-Packers matchups that could very well define the trajectory of both teams.

Week 14: Bears at Packers (December 7): The first clash will take place at Lambeau Field. With the weather turning cold and the playoff picture beginning to take shape, this game promises to be a physical and emotional battle.
Week 16: Packers at Bears (December 20): The rematch will be at Soldier Field. This late-season showdown could have significant implications for the NFC North title race and playoff seeding.

Expert Opinions and Predictions

Early predictions for the 2025 season are split. Some analysts believe the Packers will continue their dominance, while others see the Bears as a team on the rise.

Sports Illustrated predicts a split between the two teams, with the Packers winning the first game at Lambeau Field and the Bears winning the second game at home.

The Ingredients for a Reignited Rivalry

For the Bears-Packers rivalry to truly reignite, several factors need to align:

Competitive Games: Close, hard-fought contests are essential. Blowouts, regardless of who wins, diminish the intensity of the rivalry.
High Stakes: Playoff implications, division titles, and Super Bowl aspirations add fuel to the fire.
Star Power: The presence of marquee players on both sides elevates the drama and excitement.
Trash Talk: A healthy dose of verbal sparring between players and coaches can intensify the rivalry and capture the attention of fans.

The Final Verdict

Will the 2025 Bears-Packers rematch reignite the NFL’s most historic rivalry? The answer remains to be seen. However, with both teams entering new eras, the stage is set for a potentially thrilling renewal of this classic feud. Whether it’s Caleb Williams leading a game-winning drive or Jordan Love orchestrating a Lambeau Field masterpiece, fans can expect nothing less than a battle for the ages.