If you woke up this morning searching for the score of today's Chicago Bears game, I've got a bit of a "good news, bad news" situation for you.
The bad news? There isn't a score to report for Thursday, January 15, 2026. The Bears aren't playing today.
The good news is much, much better. The reason they aren't on the field right now is that they are currently deep in the lab at Halas Hall, preparing for one of the biggest home playoff games this city has seen in over a decade. Chicago is still buzzing from what happened last Saturday night, and honestly, can you blame them?
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We are officially in the "calm before the storm" phase of the NFL Divisional Round.
The Wild Card Chaos You Might Have Missed
Let's talk about why everyone is so obsessed with the Bears right now. Last Saturday, January 10, the Bears pulled off a 31-27 victory over the Green Bay Packers.
It wasn't just a win. It was a heart-stopper.
The Bears were staring down a massive 18-point hole. They trailed 21-3 at halftime and looked absolutely dead in the water. Soldier Field was quiet. Then, Caleb Williams decided he wasn't done yet. Chicago outscored the Packers 25-6 in the fourth quarter alone.
When Caleb found DJ Moore for a 25-yard touchdown with only 1:43 left on the clock, the stadium nearly shook off its foundation. It was the franchise’s first playoff win in 15 years.
Why there's no game today
NFL playoff games are almost exclusively scheduled for Saturdays, Sundays, and the occasional Monday night. Thursday Night Football—the mid-week staple we’ve grown to love (or hate)—ends once the regular season wraps up.
So, if you’re looking for a score today, January 15, the only thing you’ll find is the sound of Ben Johnson’s whistle at practice.
Looking Ahead: The Divisional Round Matchup
The Chicago Bears (12-6) are set to host the Los Angeles Rams this coming Sunday, January 18, 2026.
This isn't going to be a walk in the park. The Rams are coming off a grit-and-grind win against Carolina where Matthew Stafford looked like his vintage self, despite a minor finger scare. Stafford is a veteran who has seen everything, and he’s bringing a high-powered offense into a stadium that is famously unfriendly to "dome teams" in January.
The Weather Factor
The forecast for Sunday is calling for temperatures in the teens and "biting" wind chills. We’re talking classic Chicago playoff weather.
Historically, domed teams like the Rams struggle significantly in these conditions. Since 2000, dome teams are a dismal 2-15 in outdoor playoff games when the temperature dips below freezing. That is a massive statistical edge for the Bears, who have been practicing in the cold all week.
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Roster Moves and Injuries
It’s not all sunshine and rainbows, though. The Bears just placed linebacker T.J. Edwards on Reserve/Injured, which is a significant blow to the middle of that defense. However, they did get some reinforcements:
- Braxton Jones is back and activated.
- Kyler Gordon is healthy and providing that "juice" the secondary needs.
- Jalen Reeves-Maybin has been signed to the active roster to help bridge the gap at linebacker.
What You Need to Know for Sunday
Basically, the city is on edge. Here is the vital info for the next game so you don't miss the actual score:
- Opponent: Los Angeles Rams
- Date: Sunday, January 18, 2026
- Kickoff: 5:30 p.m. CT (6:30 p.m. ET)
- Location: Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
- TV/Streaming: NBC and Peacock
Ben Johnson has been emphasizing "urgency" all week. He even showed the team tape of the Patriots' legendary 28-3 Super Bowl comeback during the Wild Card week to remind them that no lead is safe. That mindset is clearly sticking.
People keep asking if Caleb Williams is ready for this level of pressure. After 361 yards and a game-winning drive against the Packers, "ready" feels like an understatement. He’s the first rookie/second-year quarterback in a long time to make this city feel like a Super Bowl run isn't just a fantasy—it’s a distinct possibility.
If you’re planning to head to the game, dress for sub-zero wind chills. If you’re watching from home, clear your schedule for Sunday evening. The Bears aren't playing today, but what’s coming this weekend is going to be much more important than a Thursday night stat line.
Actionable Next Steps:
Keep an eye on the Friday injury report, specifically for Rome Odunze (foot) and DJ Moore (knee). Both were limited in practice earlier this week. Their availability will drastically change how the Rams choose to defend the deep ball on Sunday night. If both are full participants by Friday, the Bears' offense will be at full strength for the first time in the postseason.