Chicago Bears (7-9) vs. Green Bay Packers (8-8)
The timeless rivalry between the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers enters another chapter in NFL Week 18, as both teams clash at the iconic Lambeau Field. With the Bears standing at 7-9 and the Packers slightly ahead at 8-8, this game, set for Sunday, promises to be more than just a routine matchup. Fans and bettors, eager for the latest Super Bowl picks, will be closely watching how these two historic franchises shape up for their final regular-season game.
The Bears have displayed an effective balance on offense this season. Justin Fields has led their passing game with 2414 passing yards and 16 touchdowns, but Khalil Herbert has led their running game with 583 rushing yards at an impressive 4.9 yards per attempt, creating dynamic plays after catch to keep their opponents at bay in tight games. Cole Kmet has become an ideal target for Justin Fields with 678 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns to his credit.
Green Bay Packers’ offensive strategy has relied heavily on their passing game since Jordan Love took over as quarterback, tossing for 3843 yards and 30 touchdowns with Romeo Doubs becoming an integral component. Doubs’ 674 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns make him a significant threat downfield; Patrick Taylor leads their ground attack with just 141 rushing yards, so this imbalance in their offense could play into their plans against Chicago Bears.
Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 4:25 PM ET |
| Where: | Lambeau Field |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Justin Fields QB vs. Jordan Love QB
Justin Fields enters this contest coming off a strong stretch of play, throwing for over 200 yards in 4 of his last 5 games including 6 touchdown passes and just 1 interception. He is learning how to marry his unique athleticism with executing the offensive system. Fields has the arm talent to threaten defenses vertically, evidenced by his 58 yard long completion this season. Fields must continue improving his pocket presence and decision making to take the next step. Though he has amassed 2,414 passing yards, Fields’ 6.8 yards per attempt and 85.8 passer rating leave room for improvement. If he can slightly raise his 61% completion percentage while eliminating some untimely sacks, Chicago’s offense could ascend quickly.
Jordan Love has posted solid numbers in his first year as a starter, compiling over 3800 passing yards and 30 touchdowns. Yet inconsistency issues persist, as Love fails to string together quality starts. His 63.1% completion rate and 7 yards per attempt are respectable, aided by a strong connection with top target Romeo Doubs. Still, Love leaves too many routine throws on the field and hasn’t displayed the deep ball precision needed to maximize Green Bay’s vertical playmakers. For this offense to reach its ceiling, Love must sharpen his decision making and ball placement on critical downs in year two as a starter.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Green Bay Packers -148, Total Odds: 44
The Packers are favored with a -148 moneyline and a 3-point spread, reflecting their slightly better season record and home-field advantage. The total odds set at 44 indicate expectations of a moderately high-scoring game.
Chicago Bears Betting Trends
The Bears are hot ATS at 5-1 in their last 6 overall. They have also gone under 6 of 9 recent totals. Chicago’s success rides on Fields’ shoulders, as evidenced by their 4-1 record over the past 5 games. However, they have struggled mightily vs. Green Bay, going 0-9 straight up and ATS over the last 9 head-to-head meetings.
Green Bay Packers Betting Trends
Behind Jordan Love, the Packers offense has caught fire going over the total in 6 of their last 6 games. Green Bay is 7-0 straight up in their last 7 home contests against Chicago. They are also 5-2 SU in their last 7 overall. Given Fields’ mobility, the over has hit in 5 of Green Bay’s last 7 matchups with the Bears.
Chicago Bears vs. Green Bay Packers 1/7/24 Betting Picks
Considering the historical dominance of the Packers over the Bears and their strong home performance, Green Bay seems to have the upper hand. However, the Bears’ recent form, especially ATS, cannot be overlooked. This game promises to be closely contested, with both teams having key strengths to leverage.
For bettors, while the Packers might seem like the safer pick, the Bears could offer value, especially given their recent ATS performance. Prop bets could center around individual performances like Fields’ rushing yards or Love’s passing touchdowns. The over/under bet might lean towards the over, given the Packers’ recent trend and the potential for the Bears to keep up in scoring. Bettors should check top sportsbooks for the latest odds and in-game betting options.
