Chicago Bears Schedule: Dates, Times, And How To Watch

by Alex Johnson 55 views

Are you a die-hard Chicago Bears fan, eagerly awaiting the next season? Do you want to ensure you don't miss a single snap, tackle, or touchdown? You've come to the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the Chicago Bears schedule for the upcoming season, providing you with all the essential details you need to follow your favorite team. From dates and times to how to watch the games, we've got you covered. Get ready to mark your calendars and prepare for an action-packed season of Bears football!

Unveiling the Chicago Bears Schedule

The anticipation is palpable as we approach the new season! The Chicago Bears schedule is more than just a list of games; it's a roadmap for a season filled with hopes, dreams, and the unwavering spirit of the Windy City. Knowing the schedule inside and out is crucial for any Bears fan, whether you're planning your weekends around the games or strategizing your fantasy football picks. Let's dive into the key aspects of understanding the Bears' schedule.

Key Dates to Circle on Your Calendar

  • Preseason Games: The preseason is a crucial time for the Bears to fine-tune their strategies, evaluate new talent, and build team chemistry. These games, while not counting towards the regular season record, offer a sneak peek into what the team might look like. Keep an eye out for the dates and times of these games to get an early glimpse of the Bears in action.
  • Regular Season Kickoff: This is the big one! The regular season kickoff marks the official start of the Bears' quest for the playoffs. The energy and excitement surrounding this game are unmatched, as fans eagerly watch the Bears take the field for the first time with the hopes of a successful season.
  • Home Games at Soldier Field: There's nothing quite like the roar of the crowd at Soldier Field. Knowing the dates of the home games allows you to plan your trips to Chicago, experience the electric atmosphere, and cheer on the Bears alongside thousands of fellow fans. Be sure to check for any special events or promotions happening during the home games!
  • Divisional Matchups: Games against NFC North rivals – the Green Bay Packers, Minnesota Vikings, and Detroit Lions – always carry extra weight. These matchups are intense, physical battles that often have significant implications for playoff positioning. Circle these dates on your calendar, as these games are sure to be thrillers.
  • Prime-Time Games: The Bears under the lights! Prime-time games offer a national stage for the team to showcase their talent. These games are broadcast to a wide audience and often feature exciting matchups. Don't miss the opportunity to see the Bears shine under the bright lights.
  • Bye Week: Every team gets a week off during the regular season, and the bye week is a time for the Bears to rest, recover, and make adjustments for the second half of the season. It's a good opportunity for players to heal up and for the coaching staff to refine their game plan.
  • Playoff Push: As the season winds down, the stakes get higher. The games in November and December are crucial for teams vying for a playoff spot. The Bears' performance during this stretch will determine their fate and whether they'll be playing football in January.

Understanding the Schedule Format

The NFL schedule follows a specific format that ensures fairness and competitive balance. The Bears play a total of 17 regular-season games, with a mix of home and away contests. Here’s a breakdown of how the schedule is typically structured:

  • Six Games Against Divisional Opponents: The Bears play each of their NFC North rivals twice – once at home and once on the road. These divisional matchups are always highly anticipated and often decide the division winner.
  • Four Games Against Teams from Another NFC Division: The NFL rotates divisional matchups each year. The Bears will play all four teams from a different NFC division, adding variety and new challenges to their schedule.
  • Four Games Against Teams from an AFC Division: Similar to the NFC matchups, the Bears will face all four teams from a rotating AFC division. This interconference play provides a chance to test their mettle against teams from the other conference.
  • Two Games Based on Previous Season's Standings: The Bears will play two games against teams from the NFC that finished in the same place in their respective divisions the previous season. This ensures that teams are playing opponents of similar caliber.
  • One Game Against a Team from the AFC Based on Previous Season's Standings: Mirroring the NFC matchup, the Bears will play one game against an AFC team that finished in the same spot in their division the previous year.

Understanding this structure can help you anticipate the level of competition the Bears will face throughout the season. It also allows you to appreciate the strategic thinking that goes into building a competitive schedule.

How to Stay Updated on the Bears Schedule

In today's fast-paced world, it's easier than ever to stay informed about the Chicago Bears schedule. Numerous platforms and resources provide up-to-date information, ensuring you never miss a game. Here are some of the best ways to keep track of the schedule:

Official NFL Website and App

The official NFL website is the go-to source for all things NFL, including the most accurate and up-to-date schedule information. The site features a comprehensive schedule grid, allowing you to view the Bears' games in a variety of formats. You can also filter the schedule by week, opponent, or date, making it easy to find the information you need.

  • Key Features:
    • Real-time updates and schedule changes.
    • Detailed game information, including kickoff times and TV channels.
    • Option to sync the schedule with your personal calendar.

The NFL app offers similar functionality on your mobile device, allowing you to stay connected to the Bears schedule on the go. The app also provides live scores, news, and highlights, making it a one-stop shop for NFL fans.

Chicago Bears Official Website and App

The Chicago Bears official website is another excellent resource for schedule information. The site features a dedicated schedule section, providing a clear and concise view of the Bears' upcoming games. You can also find links to purchase tickets, view gameday information, and access other team-related content.

  • Key Features:
    • Team-specific schedule with home and away game details.
    • Links to purchase tickets and view gameday information.
    • Team news, articles, and videos.

The Chicago Bears app offers a similar experience on your mobile device, allowing you to stay connected to the team wherever you are. The app also provides breaking news, roster updates, and exclusive content, making it a valuable tool for any Bears fan.

Sports Websites and Apps

Numerous sports websites and apps provide comprehensive coverage of the NFL, including the Chicago Bears schedule. These platforms often offer in-depth analysis, game previews, and post-game recaps, making them a great way to stay informed about the team.

  • ESPN: ESPN is a leading sports media outlet, offering a wide range of NFL coverage. Their website and app feature a detailed schedule, as well as news, articles, and video highlights.
  • CBS Sports: CBS Sports is another major sports media outlet, providing comprehensive NFL coverage. Their website and app feature a schedule, along with live scores, stats, and analysis.
  • NBC Sports: NBC Sports is the broadcast home of Sunday Night Football, and their website and app offer extensive NFL coverage. You can find the Bears schedule, as well as news, highlights, and streaming options.
  • Bleacher Report: Bleacher Report is a popular sports website known for its unique perspective and social media integration. Their website and app feature a schedule, along with articles, videos, and fan commentary.

Social Media

Social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram can be valuable sources of schedule information. Follow the official accounts of the Chicago Bears, as well as reputable sports journalists and analysts, to stay in the loop.

  • Key Benefits:
    • Real-time updates and announcements.
    • Breaking news and schedule changes.
    • Interaction with other fans and experts.

Be sure to enable notifications for these accounts so you don't miss any important updates. Social media can also be a great way to engage with other Bears fans and share your excitement for the upcoming season.

TV Listings and Broadcast Schedules

Your local TV listings and broadcast schedules are reliable sources for game times and channels. Check your cable or satellite provider's guide, or use online TV listings websites, to find the Bears' games on television.

  • Key Tips:
    • Set reminders on your TV or DVR so you don't miss a game.
    • Check for any local broadcast changes or blackouts.
    • Consider subscribing to a sports package for access to more games.

Many sports bars and restaurants also post the NFL schedule, making it easy to find a place to watch the games with fellow fans. Checking TV listings is a simple way to ensure you're ready to tune in when the Bears take the field.

Where to Watch the Chicago Bears Games

Now that you know how to stay updated on the Chicago Bears schedule, let's explore the various ways you can watch the games. Whether you prefer the comfort of your own home or the camaraderie of a sports bar, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Television Broadcasts

The majority of Chicago Bears games are broadcast on national and local television networks. Here's a breakdown of the typical broadcast schedule:

  • CBS: CBS typically broadcasts Sunday afternoon games, featuring matchups between AFC teams and NFC teams playing AFC opponents. If the Bears are playing an AFC team, you'll likely find the game on CBS.
  • Fox: Fox typically broadcasts Sunday afternoon games, featuring matchups between NFC teams. If the Bears are playing an NFC team, you'll likely find the game on Fox.
  • NBC: NBC is the broadcast home of Sunday Night Football, which features a high-profile matchup each week. If the Bears are playing in a prime-time game on Sunday night, you'll find it on NBC.
  • ESPN: ESPN broadcasts Monday Night Football, which also features a marquee matchup each week. If the Bears are playing on Monday night, you'll find the game on ESPN.
  • NFL Network: NFL Network broadcasts Thursday Night Football, as well as select Saturday games. The Bears may appear on NFL Network throughout the season.
  • Local Channels: Local channels in the Chicago area, such as WFLD (Fox 32) and WBBM (CBS 2), often broadcast Bears games. Check your local listings for details.

Streaming Services

Streaming services have become increasingly popular for watching live sports, and there are several options for catching Chicago Bears games online. Here are some of the most popular streaming services:

  • NFL+: NFL+ is the NFL's official streaming service, offering live local and prime-time games on mobile devices and tablets. You can also access replays of every game, as well as other NFL content.
  • Paramount+: Paramount+ offers live CBS broadcasts, including many Bears games. You can also access a wide range of other content, including movies, TV shows, and original programming.
  • Peacock: Peacock offers live NBC broadcasts, including Sunday Night Football games. You can also access a variety of other sports content, as well as movies and TV shows.
  • ESPN+: ESPN+ offers a variety of live sports events, including some NFL games. You can also access a wide range of other content, including college sports, soccer, and combat sports.
  • Hulu + Live TV: Hulu + Live TV offers a comprehensive package of live TV channels, including CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network. You can watch Bears games live, as well as a wide range of other content.
  • YouTube TV: YouTube TV is another popular streaming service that offers a wide range of live TV channels, including CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, and NFL Network. You can watch Bears games live, as well as record games for later viewing.
  • FuboTV: FuboTV is a sports-focused streaming service that offers a wide range of live sports channels, including CBS, Fox, NBC, ESPN, NFL Network, and more. You can watch Bears games live, as well as a variety of other sports content.

NFL Sunday Ticket

NFL Sunday Ticket is a premium package offered by DirecTV that allows you to watch every out-of-market NFL game live. If you're a Bears fan living outside of the Chicago area, NFL Sunday Ticket is a great way to catch all the action.

  • Key Benefits:
    • Watch every out-of-market game live.
    • Access to the Red Zone Channel and DirecTV Fantasy Zone.
    • Multiple viewing options, including on your TV, computer, and mobile device.

Keep in mind that NFL Sunday Ticket is only available to DirecTV subscribers. However, if you're a die-hard Bears fan who doesn't want to miss a single game, it's a worthwhile investment.

Sports Bars and Restaurants

Watching the Chicago Bears games at a sports bar or restaurant is a great way to experience the excitement and camaraderie of game day. Many sports bars feature large-screen TVs, comfortable seating, and a lively atmosphere, making them the perfect place to cheer on the Bears.

  • Key Benefits:
    • Watch the game with fellow fans.
    • Enjoy a wide selection of food and drinks.
    • Experience the energy and excitement of game day.

Call ahead to ensure the sports bar is showing the Bears game, and consider making a reservation if you're planning to go with a group. Watching the game with friends and fellow fans can make the experience even more enjoyable.

Conclusion

The Chicago Bears schedule is your roadmap to an exciting season of football. By understanding the key dates, the schedule format, and how to stay updated, you'll be well-prepared to follow your favorite team every step of the way. Whether you're watching the games on TV, streaming them online, or cheering on the Bears at a sports bar, make sure you're ready for an action-packed season. Bear down, and let's go Bears!

For more information about the NFL and the Chicago Bears, visit the official NFL website. 🐻⬇️