Posted on Jan 12

Bears defeat Packers 31-27 for first playoff win since 2011, Johnson's comments go viral

Posted Jan 12, 2026

The Chicago Bears have reclaimed a significant chapter in their storied rivalry with the Green Bay Packers by defeating them 31-27 in the NFC wild-card round, marking their first playoff victory since 2011.

Why it matters: This win not only breaks a 15-year playoff drought for the Bears but also re-establishes their competitive edge in one of the NFL's most historic rivalries.

The triumph is particularly poignant for the city of Chicago and the Bears' fan base, which has long awaited postseason success.
With this victory, the Bears have now won three of their 210 meetings against the Packers in the playoffs, solidifying their place in franchise history.

What’s new: Bears head coach Ben Johnson's postgame comments resonated loudly across social media, highlighting the emotions tied to this rivalry.

Johnson expressed his disdain for the Packers with an emphatic remark: "F--- the Packers. F--- them. F---ing hate those guys," capturing the intensity of the competition.
His sentiments reflect the longstanding animosity that characterizes this matchup, making every game against Green Bay a pivotal event for both teams.

By the numbers: The Bears’ victory symbolizes a turning point in their recent history.

Prior to this game, they had not secured a playoff win since January 16, 2011.
The Bears now look forward to building on this momentum as they aim to return to playoff contention more consistently.

Yes, but: While this victory is significant, it raises questions about the Bears’ ability to sustain success moving forward.

The team has shown flashes of potential this season, but consistency remains key if they hope to challenge the Packers and other rivals in the coming years.
Johnson's exuberance after the game may need to be matched by tactical adjustments as they advance in the postseason.

What to watch: As the postseason unfolds, the Bears will face scrutiny regarding how they leverage this victory and maintain their edge.

The dynamics of their offense, particularly with emerging stars like Justin Fields and Darnell Mooney, will be critical as they seek further advancement in the playoffs.
Moreover, their defense must continue to adapt, especially against formidable opponents who are now aware of their playoff capabilities.

The bottom line: The Bears’ playoff win over the Packers is more than just a single game; it symbolizes renewed hope for a franchise hungry for success and a reinvigoration of one of professional football's fiercest rivalries.

As they prepare for their next challenge, the Bears must harness the energy from this victory while focusing on the strategic improvements necessary for continued success.

Bears defeat Packers 31-27 for first playoff win since 2011, Johnson's comments go viral

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 12, 2026

Why it matters: This win not only breaks a 15-year playoff drought for the Bears but also re-establishes their competitive edge in one of the NFL's most historic rivalries.

The triumph is particularly poignant for the city of Chicago and the Bears' fan base, which has long awaited postseason success.

With this victory, the Bears have now won three of their 210 meetings against the Packers in the playoffs, solidifying their place in franchise history.

What’s new: Bears head coach Ben Johnson's postgame comments resonated loudly across social media, highlighting the emotions tied to this rivalry.

Johnson expressed his disdain for the Packers with an emphatic remark: "F--- the Packers. F--- them. F---ing hate those guys," capturing the intensity of the competition.

His sentiments reflect the longstanding animosity that characterizes this matchup, making every game against Green Bay a pivotal event for both teams.

By the numbers: The Bears’ victory symbolizes a turning point in their recent history.

Prior to this game, they had not secured a playoff win since January 16, 2011.

The Bears now look forward to building on this momentum as they aim to return to playoff contention more consistently.

Yes, but: While this victory is significant, it raises questions about the Bears’ ability to sustain success moving forward.

The team has shown flashes of potential this season, but consistency remains key if they hope to challenge the Packers and other rivals in the coming years.

Johnson's exuberance after the game may need to be matched by tactical adjustments as they advance in the postseason.

What to watch: As the postseason unfolds, the Bears will face scrutiny regarding how they leverage this victory and maintain their edge.

The dynamics of their offense, particularly with emerging stars like Justin Fields and Darnell Mooney, will be critical as they seek further advancement in the playoffs.

Moreover, their defense must continue to adapt, especially against formidable opponents who are now aware of their playoff capabilities.

As they prepare for their next challenge, the Bears must harness the energy from this victory while focusing on the strategic improvements necessary for continued success.