LAKE FOREST, Ill. (670 The Score) — The Bears (7-9) will finish their season Sunday as they take on the rival Packers (8-8) at Lambeau Field. Here are three storylines to follow in the matchup.
Defining victory?
Early last January, the Lions were playing for pride when they went into Lambeau Field for their season finale. Detroit then earned a stunning 20-16 victory that prevented star quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Green Bay from reaching the postseason. That Lions win also seemed to be a catalyst for their NFC North-winning campaign this season.
The Bears aren't looking at the big picture just yet, but they understand the importance of showcasing progress to finish the season. A win over the rival Packers would certainly solidify that.
"We've improved tremendously in all phases," Bears quarterback Justin Fields said. "I think that's players and coaches. We've grown a lot as a team. Our chemistry has grown with each other."
For head coach Matt Eberflus, a victory would help make his case to remain in his job for the 2024 season.
The Bears haven't yet offered any public assurance that Eberflus will return for a third season. While Eberflus has led his team to strong improvement in the second half of the season, the outcome of the game Sunday could factor into the evaluation of his future, given how much Bears ownership values games against the rival Packers.
Eberflus began his Bears tenure at 3-18 following an 0-4 start to this season. The Bears have since won seven of their last 12 games, including four of their past five, and their growth has been clear.
Fields vs. Love
In his first full season as a starter after sitting for three years behind Rodgers, 25-year-old Packers quarterback Jordan Love has impressed by throwing for 3,843 yards, 30 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 16 games. He can reach the 4,000-yard passing mark with 157 yards against the Bears, who have never had a quarterback accomplish that feat in a single season.
On Sunday, Love and Fields will square off in a fascinating regular-season finale matchup.
While Love has locked himself into the Packers' long-term plans, Fields' own future is uncertain as the Bears prepare to make a crucial decision at quarterback this offseason. Chicago owns the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, meaning it will have to decide between building around Fields or selecting his replacement atop the draft.
Fields has thrown for 2,414 yards, 16 touchdowns and nine interceptions (two on Hail Mary throws) in 12 games this season. He has made considerable strides, making it a difficult decision for the Bears.
If Fields can finish strong at Lambeau Field, he'll strengthen his case to stay as the Bears' quarterback of the future.
Moore to prove
Bears receiver DJ Moore tweeted an image of the Joker on Wednesday evening after he wasn't selected to the Pro Bowl.
Moore has enjoyed a strong first season in Chicago, hauling in 92 receptions for 1,300 yards and eight touchdowns over 16 games. But the Pro Bowl nods for NFC receivers went to CeeDee Lamb (Cowboys), A.J. Brown (Eagles), Mike Evans (Buccaneers) and Puka Nacua (Rams) over Moore.
Look for Moore to go out and prove himself in the final game of the season. He has already set personal-best marks in receiving yards and touchdowns and is one reception away from his career-high of 93, which he set in 2021.
Acquired by the Bears in their blockbuster trade of the No. 1 overall pick to the Panthers last March, Moore has lived up to his billing since joining the team.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago's sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.
