NFL Chicago Bears

5 Opponents the Chicago Bears Need To Beat In 2015

5 Opponents the Chicago Bears Need To Beat In 2015

Chicago Bears-Jay Cutler and Roberto Garza
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The Chicago Bears had the 15th toughest schedule in 2014, with their opponents having a combined winning percentage of .496 from 2013. However, the Bears were unable to take advantage of their mediocre schedule. With a 5-11 overall record, Chicago managed to win just one out of six divisional games and had a 4-8 record against NFC opponents. After getting the 13th toughest schedule for 2015, here’s a look at the five teams the Bears must beat.

5. San Francisco 49ers (home)

Chicago Bears-Kyle Fuller vs 49ers
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5. San Francisco 49ers (home)

Chicago Bears-Kyle Fuller vs 49ers
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In 2014, the Bears upset the San Francisco 49ers, giving fans in Chicago some short-lived hope for the season. Even though the Arizona Cardinals finished ahead of them in the NFC West, the 49ers are still one of the most talented teams in the NFC. Having finished last season winning only two home games, a victory over San Francisco at Soldier Field in 2015 could greatly boost the Bears’ confidence.

4. Seattle Seahawks (road)

Seattle Seahawks-Marshawn Lynch vs Bears
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4. Seattle Seahawks (road)

Seattle Seahawks-Marshawn Lynch vs Bears
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Anytime you see the reigning champions of the NFC on your schedule, you know that game will be a huge measuring stick to see were your team is. Not only will the Bears face the Seattle Seahawks in 2015, but they will do so while playing on the road in arguably the toughest place to play in the NFL. In the event of a miracle season, a win over the Seahawks could be the difference between a Wild Card appearance and a first-round bye.

3. Minnesota Vikings (home & road)

Chicago Bears-Christian Jones vs Vikings
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3. Minnesota Vikings (home & road)

Chicago Bears-Christian Jones vs Vikings
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Surprisingly, the Minnesota Vikings had a better season than the Bears in 2014. Although the Vikings aren’t known as the team to beat in the NFC North, wins over divisional opponents are the most vital any team can have during a season. Chicago will need both of these games in 2015 to stay above water in the playoff hunt.

2. Detroit Lions (home & road)

Detroit Lions-Ndamukong Suh vs Bears
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2. Detroit Lions (home & road)

Detroit Lions-Ndamukong Suh
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Over the past two seasons, Chicago has been swept by the Detroit Lions, which has put them in the bottom half of the division. The Lions are steadily improving, especially on offense. Getting back to their dominant ways against Detroit could at least get the Bears on track to getting a Wild Card berth in the postseason.

1. Green Bay Packers (home & road)

Green Bay Packers-Aaron Rodgers vs Bears
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1. Green Bay Packers (home & road)

Green Bay Packers-Aaron Rodgers vs Bears
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For the past several years, Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers have owned the Bears, and the NFC North. In order for Chicago to become a legitimate threat in the league, they must find a way to consistently beat the Packers, both at home and on the road.

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