The Chicago Bears have clinched the NFC North title for the first time since 2018 after the Green Bay Packers lost to Baltimore on Saturday night. This marks one of the most remarkable turnarounds in recent NFL history. Ben Johnson’s first season as head coach has already produced playoff success in a way nobody expected.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Bears clinched the division after the Packers lost 41-24 to the Ravens on December 27
- First NFC North title since 2018 when the Bears went 12-4 under Matt Nagy
- Bears’ current record is 11-4 with two games remaining in the regular season
- Ben Johnson’s first season as head coach has delivered a worst-to-first divisional championship
From Last Place to Division Champions
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The Chicago Bears have completed a stunning worst-to-first transformation in 2025. The division title clinch came when the Green Bay Packers fell to the Baltimore Ravens 41-24 on Saturday night.
This NFC North championship represents only the sixth time since 2000 that the Bears have won their division. The last time Chicago claimed top billing was seven years ago.
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Ben Johnson’s arrival as head coach has sparked an immediate transformation. The Bears improved dramatically from their frustrating 2024 campaign.
Their 11-4 record puts them well ahead of the pack in a division that struggled this season. The Packers sit at 9-5-1, while the Minnesota Vikings finished with 8-8.
Where Each NFC North Team Stands
| Team | Record | Status |
| Chicago Bears | 11-4 | Division Champions |
| Green Bay Packers | 9-5-1 | Second Place |
| Minnesota Vikings | 8-8 | Third Place |
| Detroit Lions | TBA | Fourth Place |
Ben Johnson’s Immediate Impact on the Bears
Head coach Ben Johnson took over a franchise desperately needing a fresh start. His first season has exceeded even optimistic expectations.
The offensive coordinator background has paid immediate dividends. The Bears have shown competitive toughness against division rivals that have dominated them for years.
What Does This Division Title Mean for Chicago’s Playoff Picture?
Winning the NFC North guarantees a playoff berth and a home game in the wild card round. The Bears still have two games to play.
Their remaining schedule includes a matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. A victory there would boost their seeding significantly in the NFC playoff picture.
“For the first time since 2018, and only the sixth time this century, the Chicago Bears are NFC North champs.”
— NFL.com, Official Statement
Sources
- NFL.com – Official NFC North championship announcement and playoff implications
- ESPN – Division standings and Packers game result details
- USA Today Bears Wire – Historical context on Bears’ last division title in 2018
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