The Green Bay Packers got the best of the Chicago Bears earlier in the season, but head coach Ben Johnson's team got the last laugh. Not only did the Bears beat the Packers in their final regular-season matchup, but they also ran away with the NFC North division. Now, the archenemies will square off in a Wild Card clash this weekend.
The Bears' recent success, plus the hit that ultimately ruled Packers quarterback Jordan Love out of the game, still stings Matt LaFleur's team. And, judging by Green Bay's latest comments, it seems like Chicago is occupying its rival's head, rent-free.
Bears Are in Packers' Heads Ahead of Wild Card Showdown
When asked about Saturday's high-flying matchup, most Packers players talked about taking down the Bears. It seemed more important to them than actually winning the game and keeping their season alive:
"I know a lot of guys took that hit that he took a little personal. So I'm not saying we gon' go out there and play dirty or nothing like that, but we definitely gonna defend our brother (Jordan Love)," running back Josh Jacobs said, per The Athletic's Matt Schneidman.
Jacobs' fiery attitude seems to be a common sentiment. Per Packers insider Cameron Ezeir of WFRV Sports, cornerback Keisean Nixon also said that he “didn’t want anybody but the Bears,” while wideout Christian Watson added that Green Bay has
a chance to end the Bears' season, that means a lot.”
While most coaches want to see their players motivated, there's a fine line to walk. The Packers' desire for revenge could blind them, potentially leading to some ill-timed penalties. Of course, the Bears wouldn't mind that, especially if it helps get them into better field position.
It's worth noting that Adrian Hill will be the main official for Saturday's divisional clash. Per NFL Penalties, Hill and his crew have thrown the second-most flags per game among all crews in the league this year (17.9). If the Packers can't contain their emotions, they could be in trouble before they know it.
Johnson stirred the pot from the very second he took the Bears' job when he said that he enjoyed beating LaFleur twice a year. There's clearly no love lost between the two, and they might dislike one another as much as the fans do.
The Bears have the home-field advantage and are the healthier team. Then again, divisional games are always a toss-up, and anything can happen in a win-or-go-home situation.
The Bears can't afford to overlook the Packers, as banged up as they might be. They have to get to work, and staying more disciplined than their rival will be crucial for them to take care of business this weekend.