Bears coach Ben Johnson ignited excitement after his team’s thrilling 31-27 victory over the Packers in the NFC wild-card round. Following the game, Johnson celebrated with an emphatic locker room speech, declaring, “F— the Packers!” This marked a significant moment after the Bears achieved the largest postseason comeback in their history.
Bears’ Motivation Against Packers
Johnson acknowledged the heightened emotions surrounding the matchup. He noted that the rivalry with the Packers had added significance, driven by comments from players and coaching staff in Green Bay. “There was probably a little bit more noise coming out of their building up north to start the week,” Johnson stated. This added motivation resonated throughout the Bears’ locker room.
Players such as safety Kevin Byard III expressed that the comments from the Packers indeed fueled their determination. “It definitely got us riled up,” he said. The Bears’ journey to this victory was remarkable, especially given their previous split of two nail-biting regular-season games with Green Bay.
Historic Playoff Victory
- Game Details: Bears vs. Packers, NFC Wild Card Round, January 6, 2024
- Score: Bears 31, Packers 27
- Bears’ Record: 12-6
- Packers’ Record: 9-8-1
- Halftime Score: Bears trailed 21-3
- Fourth Quarter Scoring: Bears outscored Packers 25-6
- Last Playoff Win: First in 15 years
- Rivalry History: Third playoff meeting; previously faced in NFC Championship Game on January 23, 2011.
Caleb Williams, who played a crucial role in the comeback with two touchdown passes in the fourth quarter, emphasized that the Bears’ performance was a statement. “We’re here,” he remarked, highlighting the team’s ambition for ongoing success in future seasons. The Bears, under Johnson’s leadership, extended their impressive first season with a total of seven fourth-quarter comebacks.
As discussion around the historic rivalry continues, this victory solidifies the Bears’ resurgence in the NFC North. Fans and players alike are eager to see how this momentum carries into future matchups with their long-time rivals.
