Lions and Bears Close the Season With Stakes on Both Sides in Chicago
As the regular NFL season reaches its final chapter, the Detroit Lions are heading to Chicago to face the Bears in a Week 18 matchup that carries very different meanings for each team. The game is set for Sunday afternoon at Soldier Field, kicking off at 4:25 p.m. ET, and while it may look routine on the surface, there’s plenty of intrigue surrounding how this one will play out.
The last time these two teams met, back in Week 2, the Lions completely dominated the Bears with a 52–21 blowout. That result still lingers in the background, but the circumstances now are far from the same. Chicago has already secured a playoff spot and clinched the NFC North, which means the Bears are now focused on playoff positioning. A win could help them lock in the No. 2 seed in the NFC, while a loss could open the door for the Eagles to leapfrog them in the standings. So, even though the division is already wrapped up, there is still plenty on the line for Chicago.
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On the other side, the Lions find themselves in a much different situation. Detroit was officially eliminated from playoff contention after a painful loss to the Vikings last week, turning this finale into what many would consider a meaningless game. That reality has sparked plenty of debate about whether the Lions would rest their starters or treat this as an early offseason tune-up.
However, it has been made clear that Detroit isn’t planning to simply go through the motions. Head coach Dan Campbell indicated that the starters are expected to play, emphasizing that there are still things to evaluate and standards to uphold. According to Campbell, effort and competitiveness are non-negotiable, even when the playoffs are no longer in reach. Quarterback Jared Goff echoed that mindset, saying the team wants to put something positive on tape and reclaim some respect after a disappointing end to the season.
That said, the Lions will not be at full strength. Several key players have already been ruled out, including linebacker Alex Anzalone, defensive lineman Alim McNeill, and right tackle Penei Sewell. Others, such as tight end Sam LaPorta, cornerback Terrion Arnold, and safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph, remain on injured reserve. Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown is listed as questionable, but he has been trending in the right direction, and the expectation is that he will suit up.
For fans, this game still offers plenty to watch. It will be broadcast live on FOX, with Kevin Burkhardt on play-by-play and Tom Brady providing analysis, while the Lions Radio Network will carry the local radio call. Even in a season finale where the stakes are uneven, pride, momentum, and evaluation are very much in play. One team is sharpening its playoff edge, while the other is trying to finish strong and set a tone for what comes next.
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