Packers vs. Bears Q&A: Chicago’s playoff outlook

On Sunday, the Green Bay Packers face off against their arch rivals, the Chicago Bears. Robert of Windy City Gridiron was kind enough to answer some questions about the Bears and provide some insight into their strengths and weaknesses.

APC: Entering Week 15, the Bears hold a one-game lead over the Cowboys for the No. 3 seed in the NFC playoffs and trail the second-seeded Rams by two wins. Which scenario seems more likely: The Bears find a way to take the No. 2 seed or they fall behind the Cowboys and finish fourth?

Considering that the Bears have a limited margin for error (they can only afford one more defeat if they want the No. 2 seed), and that they need either the Rams or Saints to tank badly, it’s more likely the Bears finish fourth behind the Cowboys. Any time you need a league juggernaut like the Saints or Rams to falter that much down the stretch, in addition to limited failure on your part, I’m always going to lean on the side of basic math. The Bears, in my mind, lost a legitimate chance at a first-round bye when they lost to the Giants and Dolphins. That’s the way the cookie crumbles.

I don’t think the Bears fall behind the Cowboys, however. Two more wins seals that third seed designation. That’s regardless of if even Dallas wins out (Dallas has to win out to have a chance). Between the Packers, 49ers, and reeling Vikings on their remaining schedule, I see at least two victories in there for Chicago to lock up a matchup with the NFC’s sixth seed.

We’d like to thank Robert for his insight. Be sure to check out our Q&A session at Windy City Gridiron, as well as their fantastic coverage of all things Bears. As always, keep your internet machines tuned to Acme Packing Company this Sunday for our comprehensive game-day coverage of Packers versus Bears.