The Origins of the Rivalry
The longstanding rivalry between the Green Bay Packers and the Chicago Bears dates back to the early years of the NFL. On November 27, 1921, the two teams faced off for the first time, with the Bears, known as the Staleys at the time, emerging victorious with a resounding 20-0 win. This initial shutout victory set the stage for a fierce and enduring rivalry between the two teams.
A few years later, on November 23, 1924, the rivalry deepened even further when a historic event took place – the first-ever ejection in NFL history. Frank Hanny of the Bears and Tillie Voss of the Packers were both ejected from the game for throwing punches. These pivotal moments, coupled with their shared divisional alignment in the NFC North, laid the foundation for a rivalry that continues to this day.
Super Bowl Success
When it comes to Super Bowl victories, the Packers hold a significant advantage over the Bears. The Packers have clinched four Super Bowl titles, including the first two in NFL history. In 1966, they triumphed in the inaugural Super Bowl, and in 1968, they defeated the Oakland Raiders to secure another championship. These victories were so significant that the championship trophy was subsequently named after the Packers’ legendary coach, Vince Lombardi.
The Packers’ Super Bowl success didn’t end there. They went on to win the coveted title again in 1997 and 2011, solidifying their status as one of the most successful franchises in NFL history. On the other hand, the Bears have secured only one Super Bowl victory, which came in 1986 when they defeated the New England Patriots.
Dominance on the Field
While the Bears initially had the upper hand in the rivalry, recent years have seen the Packers assert their dominance on the field. Out of the 200+ meetings between the two teams, the Packers have emerged victorious in the last nine consecutive games since the end of the 2013 season.
“The Bears haven’t been very good in the last ten years,” remarked lifelong Packers fan, Bob Hird. “They haven’t had a lot of memorable games.” During this period, the Bears have only managed to secure five wins against their arch-rivals. Despite this, Hird and many others eagerly anticipate the annual Bears vs. Packers showdowns, as they embody the spirit of Midwest football and the rich history of this storied rivalry.
The Cheeseheads and the Bears Fans
When it comes to fan dedication, both the Packers and the Bears have passionate and devoted supporters. Packers fans, affectionately known as “cheeseheads,” can be seen at Lambeau Field donning their iconic cheese hats, adding a unique flavor to the game-day experience. On the other side, Bears fans pack the Soldier Field parking lots for pre-game tailgates, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The sound of their beloved fight song, “Bear Down, Chicago Bears,” resonates throughout the stadium, showcasing their unwavering support for their team.
As the Packers and Bears continue to clash on the gridiron, the history, intensity, and passion of this enduring rivalry remain as strong as ever. The battles between these two legendary franchises continue to captivate fans and add an extra layer of excitement to the NFL season.