Packers' Love returns from concussion as they face Bears in wild-card matchup

The Green Bay Packers are set to face the Chicago Bears in a critical NFC wild-card playoff matchup, with quarterback Jordan Love returning from injury.

Why it matters: This game marks a significant moment for both teams, as the rivalry between the Packers and Bears is one of the oldest and most storied in NFL history. With playoff implications on the line, both teams will be looking to assert themselves early.

• The Packers enter this game with a 9-7-1 record and have struggled recently, losing their last four games.
• Conversely, the Bears boast an impressive 11-6 record, earning them the second seed in the playoffs.

What’s new: Jordan Love, who has been sidelined due to a concussion, is expected to play against the Bears after missing the past three weeks, including the regular-season finale against Minnesota.

• Love left the Week 16 game against the Bears with his concussion but has remained active in practice during his recovery.
• Head Coach Matt LaFleur expressed confidence in Love's performance: “He looked good... he had, I would say, a pretty normal workload, so he looked good.”

Yes, but: While Love's return is promising for the Packers, questions remain about his readiness given the break from competitive play.

• Love himself stated, "No, it doesn't really... it's been a couple weeks, but no it doesn't feel like that just staying with it in practice."
• The transition back into game speed and live action will be crucial, especially against a formidable Bears defense.

What to watch: Running back Josh Jacobs will also be a key player as he returns from his own injury issues.

• Jacobs noted, “My body coming into this game is the best I've felt probably in the last six weeks... pretty good situation to be in." His health could provide a much-needed boost to a struggling Packers offense.

Between the lines: The significance of this matchup extends beyond the current standings.

• This game represents the third playoff meeting between these historic rivals, the first since the 2010 NFC Championship Game. Both teams understand the weight of the moment.

The bottom line: As the Packers prepare to square off against the Bears, the outcomes of individual performances—particularly those of Love and Jacobs—will be pivotal in determining their playoff fate. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and both teams are prepared to leave everything on the field for a chance at postseason glory.