Finally, we get Bears vs. Packers in the playoffs.
The top two teams from the NFC North, the Bears and Packers, collide in an immediate grudge match, and everything about this matchup points toward fireworks. Both offenses are built to score, both quarterbacks have something to prove, and neither coaching staff is interested in playing conservative football.
This one has shootout written all over it, making it a fantasy gold mine.
Matchup Snapshot
Chicago enters with a revitalized offense led by rookie phenom Caleb Williams and an aggressive scheme under Ben Johnson. Green Bay counters with playoff experience, balance, and Jordan Love, looking to silence any lingering doubts after Malik Willis’ late-season success.
Expect tempo, explosive plays, and plenty of passing volume on both sides.
CHICAGO BEARS
- Start: Caleb Williams
Start Meter: (5/5)
Ben Johnson has proven to be the perfect match for Williams, and it’s shown more and more as the season progresses. With multiple targets returning and playoff confidence at an all-time high, Williams is set up for a strong fantasy outing. His creativity and poise make him a high-end QB1 this week.
- Start: Colston Loveland
Start Meter: (4/5)
The rookie tight end has quickly become Williams’ most trusted weapon. Loveland thrives in the middle of the field and in the red zone, two areas that matter most in the playoffs. Start him confidently and expect a touchdown.
- Flex: DJ Moore
Start Meter: (4/5)
Moore is active and ready for his first playoff moment. While target competition exists, his physicality and after-the-catch ability give him real upside. He’s a strong flex with WR2 potential in a high-scoring game.
- Flex: Luther Burden or Rome Odunze
Start Meter: (3/5)
Odunze is back and ready to go, while Burden continues to carve out a meaningful role. These two will battle for targets all afternoon, but the game script should support both. Start either as a flex, knowing one could pop in a big way.
- Sit: Bears RBs (D’Andre Swift & Minangai)
Start Meter: (2/5)
Green Bay has been strong against the run all season, and this matchup sets up as pass-heavy. Swift and Minangai may get touches, but neither profiles for a breakout day. It’s best to look elsewhere in playoff lineups.
GREEN BAY PACKERS
- Start: Jordan Love
Start Meter: (4/5)
Love has plenty to prove after recent success from Malik Willis, and this is the perfect stage to respond. Expect a focused, aggressive game plan with Love attacking downfield once the run game gets going. Strong QB1 upside.
- Start: Josh Jacobs
Start Meter: (5/5)
Chicago has shown vulnerability to big plays in the run game, and Jacobs will be leaned on early and often. His physical style helps set the tone while Love shakes off rust. Volume, touchdowns, and playoff reliability make him a must-start.
- Start: Christian Watson
Start Meter: (4/5)
It’s been great to see Watson bounce back and deliver a strong season. His speed stretches the field, and he’s a prime red-zone weapon. Expect at least one touchdown in what could be his best game of the year.
- Flex: Romeo Doubs & Jayden Reed
Start Meter: (3/5)
If Green Bay wants to keep pace, the ball will have to fly in the second half. Doubs and Reed should both see increased volume as WR2 options. Solid flex plays with upside in PPR formats.
Fantasy Football: Eagles stack, Jayden Reed among favorite DFS lineup picks for NFL wild-card weekend – Yahoo Sports
- Sit: Luke Musgrave
Start Meter: (2/5)
Kraft hasn’t shown enough consistent production to trust in a playoff matchup. With so many mouths to feed in this offense, his fantasy ceiling is limited.
Final Fantasy Takeaway
This Bears–Packers playoff showdown has all the ingredients of a fantasy classic. Trust the quarterbacks, lean into the passing game, and don’t overthink the stars. The NFC North rivalry finally hits the postseason, and fantasy managers should be ready to capitalize.
