The Chicago Bears have lost yet another game against the Green Bay Packers. In this so-called “Bears-Packers rivalry,” how does this specific loss pave the way for critical decisions in 2024?
Bears-Packers Rivalry
Loss Against Packers Changing The Bears Future
It’s no secret that the Packers have owned the Bears over the past couple of years. The Packers are now on a 10-game winning streak against the Bears. While the Bears were already out of playoff contention in their last game against the Packers, it marked a pivotal moment in quarterback Justin Fields’ career. The 9-17 loss against the Packers likely means this is Fields’ last game as the Bears’ quarterback. Additionally, a potential upset at Lambeau Field could have solidified Fields as the franchise quarterback in Chicago. Unfortunately, with the Bears enduring a disappointing loss, The best action could be starting on a clean slate, allowing Fields a fresh start elsewhere.
Failed Chances Bring Significant Change
With the game plan failing to create chances and protect Fields, it’s hard to put all the blame on him. To put it bluntly, the Bears organization has failed Fields. It almost looked like Offensive Coordinator Luke Getsy was purposely trying to sabotage Fields. Fields went 8/9 for 94 yards in the first half. So most coordinators would see that as an opportunity to pass the ball even more in the second half, right? Instead, Fields doesn’t throw the ball once in the third quarter due to Getsy’s playcalling.
Ending the season with a 7-10 record and holding the first and ninth overall picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Bears face crucial decisions. Significant changes are imperative if the Bears are serious about being competitive in 2024 and beyond. This involves potentially restructuring the quarterback room, revamping the coaching staff, and adopting a new approach to every game. If there is change, things will shape up for the Bears.
Time To Make The Bears-Packers Rivalry Into An Actual Rivalry
It’s hard to have hope every time the Bears play the Packers and have that hope get crushed. It seems like the Bears are scared of the Packers—it’s time to change that. With all the adversity the Bears went through this season, it was still evident that there were a lot of holes to fix on this team. The quarterback debate is a whole topic in itself, so that can be discussed throughout the offseason. On the other hand, apparent positions need to be filled this offseason on the roaster. The center, free safety, and another wide receiver are the most evident positions of need. But that’s only half of the equation.
The remaining component lies in coaching – the differentiating factor between playoff-bound teams and those that fall short. The Bears must make substantial investments in securing the ideal coaching staff for the organization, capable of effectively nurturing the quarterback’s development and making dynamic in-game adjustments. Something that this current coaching staff failed to accomplish.
If this can be achieved, then the Bears have a chance of actually beating the Packers for once. Predicting the future and determining the best course of action is hard. It’s easier to understand that the Bears have to be better. Let this game be a reason to reflect and retool for the future.
Main Photo: Wm. Glasheen/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin-USA TODAY NETWORK
