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Bears Face Rams in Playoffs: Can They Pull Off an Upset?

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, January 18th 2026 at 9:45 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Chicago, IL - January 18th, 2026 - The Chicago Bears are preparing for a highly anticipated divisional round playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams, marking a significant moment for the franchise after a surprising late-season surge. While the Bears' dramatic turnaround earned them a home playoff game, they face a formidable opponent in the Rams, widely considered a top contender in the NFC.

The buzz surrounding the matchup is intense, and the overwhelming consensus among football analysts points to a Rams victory. However, the Bears' momentum and a potent running game suggest the possibility of an upset, keeping fans and experts alike engaged.

Expert Predictions Lean Heavily Towards Los Angeles

The Rams enter the game as strong favorites, bolstered by a more seasoned roster and an overall more powerful team profile. Multiple major sports outlets have released their predictions, and the Rams' dominance in these forecasts is striking. ESPN analysts, for instance, are overwhelmingly predicting a Rams win, with 82.4% of their panel favoring the California team. CBS Sports' analysts show an even more decisive preference, with 90% anticipating a Rams victory. Sporting News offers a specific score prediction: 27-20 in favor of the Rams. Further cementing their favored status, NFL.com lists the Rams as a 6.5-point favorite.

This widespread agreement amongst analysts underscores the Rams' reputation as a consistent and high-performing team. However, dismissing the Bears entirely would be premature. The Bears have demonstrated considerable improvement throughout the season, fueled by a revitalized offense and a renewed team spirit. Their ability to control the game's tempo and dictate the flow of play - particularly through a strong ground game - could prove crucial in disrupting the Rams' expected dominance.

Key Matchups Will Determine the Outcome

The game's success will likely hinge on several critical matchups. One of the most significant will be the Rams' ferocious pass rush against the Bears' offensive line. The Rams boast one of the league's premier pass-rushing units, and their ability to pressure Bears quarterback Justin Fields will be a decisive factor. The Bears' offensive line will be under immense pressure to provide Fields with the time he needs to find receivers and execute the offense.

Furthermore, the performance of Justin Fields himself will be pivotal. Fields' recent improvement in decision-making and accuracy has been a key driver of the Bears' late-season success. Facing a tough Rams defense, his ability to extend plays, remain composed under pressure, and deliver precise throws will be critical to Chicago's chances.

Can the Bears Orchestrate an Upset?

While the odds are stacked against the Bears, the potential for an upset exists. The team's strong running game, spearheaded by a revitalized rushing attack, provides a valuable weapon. Controlling possession and limiting the Rams' offensive opportunities will be essential for Chicago. A sustained ground game can drain the clock, wear down the Rams' defense, and keep their high-powered offense off the field.

Ultimately, the Rams' superior talent and experience give them a significant advantage. Their proven track record and depth of skill make them the team to beat. However, the unpredictable nature of playoff football means that anything can happen, and the Bears, fueled by momentum and determination, are capable of delivering a surprise.

Game Details: Date: Sunday, January 25th, 2026 Time: 8:00 p.m. ET * Network: Fox