Bears Host Rams in NFC Divisional Clash at Soldier Field

The Chicago Bears are hosting the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Divisional Round playoff game at Soldier Field on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Both teams earned their spots with strong regular seasons: the Bears at 11-6 with a solid home record, and the Rams at 12-5 looking to advance deeper into the postseason. The game kicked off in chilly conditions, drawing fans despite the forecast of cold temperatures and possible snow.

Background

The Bears finished the regular season in second place in the NFC North with an 11-6 record, behind Seattle's strong 14-3 mark in the conference. They went 6-2 at home, giving them the edge to host this divisional matchup. Soldier Field has been a tough venue for opponents, and the Bears built momentum late in the year to secure this home playoff game.

The Rams, from the NFC West, ended up 12-5, tying San Francisco for second in their division but advancing through the wild card round. They have a 5-4 road record, showing they can handle away games. This is their chance to move forward in the playoffs after a season where they scored 518 points while allowing 346.

Chicago's fans filled the stands early, ready for playoff football in the winter cold. The team announced the matchup after the NFL set the playoff schedule, confirming the Bears as hosts. Weather reports called for dropping temperatures through the night, with wind and possible light snow adding to the challenge for both sides.

The Bears enter with a defense that held opponents to 415 points over the season. Offensively, they put up 441 points. The Rams bring a balanced attack, relying on their passing game and solid rushing.

Playoff games like this one test teams under pressure. The Bears last hosted a divisional round game years ago, making this a big moment for the city. Rams players spoke about preparing for the cold, knowing Soldier Field's conditions can shift games.

Key Details

Game Progress and Scoring

The game started with both teams scoreless in the early first quarter, with the clock showing 15:00 remaining and the Bears facing a first and 10 at their own 37-yard line. By the second quarter at 12:24, the Rams led 7-0 after the first quarter, but the Bears tied it at 7-7 by halftime. In the third quarter, both teams added touchdowns, making it 14-14 heading into the fourth.

Rams' scoring came from a first-quarter touchdown, followed by another in the third. Bears responded with a second-quarter score and one in the third to even things up. Kick returns showed Chicago's Devin Duvernay taking one back 27 yards. Defensive plays included a tackle by Rams' Josh Wallace.

No major passing or rushing stats were logged early, as both teams felt each other out. The field position battle stayed close, with drives starting around midfield for both.

Weather Impact

Cold air hit Soldier Field from the start, with temperatures in the low 20s and wind gusts making it feel colder. Snow flurries were expected later, which could affect footing and passing accuracy. Players from warmer climates, like many on the Rams roster, adjusted with extra layers and heated benches.

Fans bundled up in parkas and Bears gear, waving flags despite the chill. The lakefront location often brings harsh winds off Lake Michigan, turning night games into tests of endurance.

Team Stats and Standings

Bears: 11-6 overall, 6-2 home. NFC North: Chicago second behind Seattle (14-3), ahead of Green Bay (9-7-1), Minnesota (9-8), Detroit (9-8).

Rams: 12-5 overall, 5-4 away. NFC West: Tied with San Francisco (12-5), behind Seattle, ahead of Arizona (3-14).

Both teams showed strength: Bears allowed fewer points per game on average, while Rams scored more offensively.

"The cold won't stop us; we've prepared for this at home," said Bears coach Matt Eberflus before kickoff.

What This Means

A win sends the victor to the NFC Championship, closer to the Super Bowl. For the Bears, it would mark a return to conference title contention after years away. Home field gives them crowd support and familiarity with the weather.

The Rams aim to build on their road success. Beating a home team in playoffs boosts their case as contenders. The tied score at key moments shows even matchup, with defenses holding firm.

Fans watch closely as every drive could shift momentum. Cold weather favors teams used to it, like the Bears, but Rams' experience matters. Next round pits winners against other NFC survivors.

Injuries stayed minimal early, with no fumbles or turnovers reported. Punt and kick coverage held steady. As the game moves to the fourth quarter, small mistakes could decide it.

Chicago's city buzzes with playoff energy. Streets near Soldier Field filled with tailgates before gates opened. National TV coverage on NBC brings eyes from coast to coast.

Division implications linger: NFC North and West reps fight for supremacy. Seattle leads the conference at 14-3, but this game shapes the bracket.

Playoff paths narrow here. Teams know regular-season form means little now—execution wins. Bears and Rams trade blows, setting stage for late drama.