The Chicago Bears are still in the hunt for a postseason spot. The club defeated the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday to move to 8-9, which means they can still earn the last wild-card place despite a losing record.
To make the playoffs, however, a lot of things must go perfectly. It’s improbable that they’ll make the playoffs, but there’s still time to hope till the season is complete.
Why Justin Fields and the Chicago Bears need aid from the San Francisco 49ers and Detroit Lions in the playoffs
The only way the Bears would make the playoffs is for their immediate opponents for the last wild card to lose and the NFC South to fall out of the race. As a result of their 8-9 record, they would receive the seventh seed.
They require the assistance of several teams. They would expect the Arizona Cardinals to defeat the Seattle Seahawks in Week 18 and the Detroit Lions to defeat the Minnesota Vikings. This week, they must win against the Seattle Seahawks, the New York Giants against the Los Angeles Rams, and the Green Bay Packers against the Minnesota Vikings.
The Chicago Bears must also win their two games. They host the Atlanta Falcons in Week 17 and play the Green Bay Packers on the road in Week 18.
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The Chicago Bears playoff hopes as of Week 17
The Bears have the poorest probability of making the playoffs in the league. According to the New York Times’ playoff calculation, they have a 1% chance. Only four teams have a better shot, but the Washington Commanders, New York Giants, Carolina Panthers, and Arizona Cardinals are all out.
The Bears’ dismal start to the season is hurting them significantly at this point, and Justin Fields’ injury, which forced Tyson Bagent to start a few games for them, hasn’t helped their situation either. At this point, the Bears can only hope for a miracle if Fields still wants to play for them in 2024.
What Are the Bears’ Playoff Prospects and Scenarios Heading into Week 16?
Chicago hasn’t been eliminated from the playoffs yet, but getting into the tournament will be difficult. The Bears can no longer win the NFC North, where the Detroit Lions are overwhelming favorites, but they must beat the Minnesota Vikings in the following three weeks.
Only a Wild Card position will get Justin Fields and company into the playoffs. However, ESPN’s Football Power Index does not believe Chicago will make the playoffs, giving the team a 0.6% probability of extending its season past Week 18.
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