Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears: Why This Rivalry is Losing Its Shine in 2024
The NFL’s most storied rivalry, the Green Bay Packers versus the Chicago Bears, takes center stage once again in Week 11 of the 2024 season. Traditionally, this matchup has been a prime-time spectacle, drawing millions of fans glued to their screens. But as we gear up for the live stream (available on major platforms), the TV broadcast on FOX, and a kickoff set for 1:00 PM ET, one can’t help but wonder—has this iconic rivalry lost its edge?
The Lack of Star Power
The 2024 season has been a peculiar one for both teams. The Packers, now firmly entrenched in the post-Aaron Rodgers era, have struggled with consistency under their new quarterback. Jordan Love, touted as the heir apparent, has shown flashes of brilliance but has also stumbled in key moments. Meanwhile, the Bears continue their perennial quarterback carousel, with Justin Fields battling injuries and questions about his ability to lead the team long-term.
Gone are the days when names like Brett Favre, Rodgers, and Brian Urlacher electrified this rivalry. Today’s matchup features rosters that lack the same gravitas, making it hard for casual fans to tune in for anything other than nostalgia.
A Struggle for Relevance
Neither team is particularly dominant this season, making the stakes feel lower than they should for such a historic clash. The Packers sit at 4-5, barely clinging to playoff hopes, while the Bears languish at 3-6, effectively out of contention barring a miracle turnaround. With little more than pride on the line, Week 11 feels less like a clash of titans and more like a midseason filler.
This lack of relevance in the broader NFL landscape diminishes the rivalry’s impact. Once a guaranteed ratings juggernaut, this matchup now risks being overshadowed by higher-stakes games featuring more competitive teams.
A Changing Fan Experience
Another factor diluting the rivalry is the modern viewing experience. While the game is available via live stream on platforms like Amazon Prime and NFL+, it raises questions about accessibility for fans who don’t subscribe to these services. Traditional TV broadcasts still exist, but the shift toward streaming alienates older fans who cherished watching these games on free-to-air channels.
Moreover, the NFL’s push for parity means that rivalries like Packers-Bears no longer hold the monopoly on thrilling games. With exciting matchups every week, the old classics have to fight harder than ever to stay relevant.
Betting on Mediocrity
Oddsmakers have set the line with the Packers as slight favorites (-3.5), reflecting their marginally better form this season. The over/under is a modest 41.5, underscoring the lack of confidence in either team’s offensive firepower.
For fans of sports betting, this game offers little intrigue. A low-scoring affair between two struggling teams doesn’t inspire much enthusiasm, even with the allure of NFC North bragging rights.
Can the Rivalry Be Revived?
The Packers-Bears rivalry isn’t dead, but it’s undoubtedly on life support. To rekindle its former glory, both franchises need to invest in long-term competitiveness. A resurgence of high-stakes games, marquee players, and postseason implications could bring the magic back.
For now, Week 11’s clash feels more like a shadow of its former self. Fans tuning in will hope for a surprise—a thrilling game, an unexpected standout performance, or maybe a spark to reignite the rivalry. But in 2024, that feels like wishful thinking.
What do you think? Is Packers-Bears still the greatest rivalry in football, or has it been overtaken by more modern matchups?
