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Few rivalries in sports can match the intensity, history, and passion of the Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears. Dating back to 1921, this legendary feud is the oldest and most played rivalry in NFL history, with over 200 meetings between the two franchises. From iconic players to unforgettable moments, the Packers-Bears rivalry defines what makes football great.
A Historic Feud
The rivalry began when the Decatur Staleys (now the Chicago Bears) faced the Packers in their first official NFL game. Since then, the two teams have battled for division supremacy, playoff berths, and bragging rights in the NFC North. The Bears currently lead the all-time series (105-95-6), but the Packers have dominated in recent years, especially with quarterbacks like Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers at the helm.
Legendary Players & Coaches
- George Halas (Bears) vs. Curly Lambeau (Packers) – The rivalry’s founding fathers set the tone for decades of competition.
- Walter Payton, Dick Butkus, Mike Ditka (Bears) vs. Bart Starr, Reggie White, Vince Lombardi (Packers) – Hall of Famers who elevated the stakes.
- Aaron Rodgers’ dominance – His famous “I own you” comment to Bears fans in 2021 encapsulated the modern era of Packers superiority.
Unforgettable Moments
- The “Instant Replay” Game (1989) – A controversial call helped the Bears win after a Packers TD was overturned.
- 2013: The Rodgers-to-Cobb 48-yard TD – A game-winning pass on 4th down to clinch the NFC North.
- 2018: The Bears’ NFC North Title – Chicago finally dethroned Green Bay, only for the Packers to bounce back.
Why It’s the NFL’s Best Rivalry
- Longevity – Over 100 years of battles.
- Fan Passion – Two of the NFL’s most loyal fanbases.
- Stakes – Often deciding the NFC North crown.
- Contrasting Identities – Small-town Green Bay vs. big-city Chicago.
What’s Next?
With Jordan Love leading the Packers and the Bears banking on Caleb Williams, the next chapter of this rivalry is just beginning. No matter the records, when these teams meet, football history is made.
Packers vs. Bears isn’t just a game—it’s a tradition. And as long as the NFL exists, this rivalry will remain its fiercest.
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