The Chicago Bears are actually in the divisional round of the playoffs. It’s a wild time to be a fan in the city. If you’re trying to figure out what time is the bears game sunday, you need to clear your evening plans because this isn't a noon kickoff.
The Bears are set to host the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
What Time Is The Bears Game Sunday and Where to Watch
Kickoff is officially scheduled for 5:30 p.m. CT.
If you are on the East Coast, that’s 6:30 p.m. ET. For the West Coast fans or those following Matthew Stafford’s return to a cold climate, it's 3:30 p.m. PT. Honestly, the late-afternoon window at Soldier Field in mid-January is basically synonymous with "frozen tundra" vibes.
You can catch the game on NBC.
If you’ve cut the cord, Peacock is your primary streaming home for this one. Locally in Chicago, you can also find it on the NFL+ app, though that’s usually restricted to mobile devices. For the radio crowd, Jeff Joniak and Tom Thayer will be on the call via ESPN 1000 (100.3 FM HD2). They usually start their pregame coverage around 3:00 p.m. CT, so if you want the full atmosphere, tune in early.
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The Matchup: Rams at Bears
This isn't just another game. We’re talking about the NFC Divisional Round. The Bears come in as the No. 2 seed after a 11-6 regular season and a narrow, heart-pounding 31-27 win over the Packers in the Wild Card round.
The Rams, on the other hand, are the No. 5 seed. They just finished dismantling the Panthers 34-31. Most oddsmakers actually have the Rams as slight 3.5-point favorites. It’s a bit of a slap in the face to a home team with a higher seed, but that’s the respect Stafford and Puka Nacua are getting right now.
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Why This Specific Time Matters
The 5:30 p.m. CT start time is a big deal for the "Beardown" faithful. By the time the second quarter hits, the sun will be completely gone over Lake Michigan.
The temperature is projected to be around 6° F. That is not a typo.
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When you ask what time is the bears game sunday, you also have to ask how many layers you’re wearing. The late start means the field will be harder, the air will be thinner, and the Rams—who play in a nice, cozy dome in Inglewood—might find themselves questioning their life choices by halftime.
Key Storylines to Watch
- The Ben Johnson Factor: Coach Ben Johnson has turned this offense into something unrecognizable from the stagnant years of the past.
- The Defense: The Bears' secondary is mostly healthy, except for Nick McCloud, who is out with a groin injury.
- The Rams' Aerial Attack: Stafford threw for over 300 yards against Carolina. If the Bears can't get pressure, it’s going to be a long, cold night.
Survival Guide for Sunday
If you’re heading to the lakefront, the gates at Soldier Field usually open two hours before kickoff. That’s 3:30 p.m. CT.
Don't forget that Soldier Field is strictly a cashless venue. If you’re buying a $14 hot chocolate to keep your hands from falling off, bring your cards or phone. Parking is always a nightmare, so the South Shore Line or the CTA "L" trains are your best bets.
Basically, the city is going to be at a standstill. Whether you’re at a bar in Wrigleyville or huddled under a blanket in Naperville, this is the biggest Bears game in years.
Actionable Next Steps
- Sync your clocks: Set a reminder for 5:30 p.m. CT so you don't miss the opening kickoff on NBC.
- Check your streaming: If using Peacock, log in 15 minutes early to handle any "unexpected" updates.
- Prep for the cold: If you're going to the game, the forecast is 6° F; double up on socks and use cardboard under your feet to stay off the cold concrete.
- Follow the injury report: Keep an eye on any last-minute changes to the Rams' offensive line, as they’ve got a few guys on IR that could change their protection schemes.