Chicago Bears Poised for Improvement with Easier 2024 Schedule
As we look toward the 2024 NFL season, the Chicago Bears are poised to capitalize on an advantageous schedule, ranked as the third easiest based on last season’s records. For the Bears, who ended last year with a 7-10 record, this could be another break they need to turn things around. Let’s dive into their upcoming season, highlight some key games, and explore significant dates across the NFL that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Chicago Bears: 2024 Schedule Breakdown
Here’s a closer look at who the Bears will face at home and on the road this year. The official NFL schedule hasn’t been released yet, but it is tentatively set for May 15th.
Home Games:
- Detroit Lions (12-5)
- Green Bay Packers (9-8)
- Minnesota Vikings (7-10)
- Los Angeles Rams (10-7)
- Seattle Seahawks (9-8)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (9-8)
- Tennessee Titans (6-11)
- Carolina Panthers (2-15)
- New England Patriots (4-13)
Away Games:
- Detroit Lions (12-5)
- Green Bay Packers (9-8)
- Minnesota Vikings (7-10)
- Arizona Cardinals (4-13)
- San Francisco 49ers (12-5)
- Houston Texans (10-7)
- Indianapolis Colts (9-8)
- Washington Commanders (4-13)
Opponent Record: 135-154
Opponent Win Percentage: .467
Why Is This Schedule Considered Easy?
The perception of an easier schedule primarily comes from the overall win-loss record of the Bears’ opponents from the last season, which stands at 135-154, translating to a win percentage of .467. This indicates that more than half of the games the Bears will play are against teams that had losing records last year. Matchups against teams like the Carolina Panthers (2-15), Washington Commanders (4-13), and the New England Patriots (4-13) are considered more winnable opportunities. Notably, those teams will have young quarterbacks in 2024.
Moreover, the Bears have tough games against teams like division rivals the Detroit Lions and San Francisco 49ers, who had strong performances last season. Then there’s the Packers, screw them.
The Bears’ schedule is filled with teams that struggled to maintain consistency last season. That’s the good news.
2023 Performance
Last season, the Chicago Bears faced challenges but won two of their last three games. Offensively, the team struggled to find consistency and potency in its attack, averaging only 21.2 points per game, which ranked them 18th in the NFL (tied with Tampa Bay). Their opponents averaged 22.3 points per game.
The passing game was particularly weak; with only 3,421 yards, the Bears ranked 28th in the League. But Justin Fields has now been traded, and the Caleb Williams/Rome Odunze hype is taking over the city.
Their 2023 rushing attack was much more effective. They finished with 2,399 rushing yards, which was the second-best in the NFL. Only the Ravens were better. But now the Bears have added D’Andre Swift.
Defensively, the Bears finished with the best rushing defense in the NFL, allowing only 1,468 yards. They had the 21st-ranked passing defense, allowing 4,245 yards per contest. But Montez Sweat only played nine games.
There are several reasons for optimism.
Key Highlights of the NFL Calendar
The 2024 NFL season isn’t just bringing excitement for Bears fans but for football enthusiasts around the globe. Here are a few highlights:
- Historic Games in Brazil: For the first time, the NFL will host a game in Brazil, where the Philadelphia Eagles will play the Green Bay Packers in São Paulo. This expansion into new markets is a thrilling development for the sport.
- International Series Expansion: The Bears will be part of the NFL’s continuing international series with a scheduled “home” game in London. This is a fantastic opportunity for UK-based fans to see their favorite team up close.
- Christmas Doubleheader: An NFL game on Christmas is special, but this year, with Christmas falling on a Wednesday, we’re treated to a rare doubleheader. It’s a perfect holiday gift for fans!
Final Thoughts
For the Bears, the 2024 season is brimming with potential. With a schedule perceived to be easier than most, there’s a real chance for significant improvement. Of course, it’s up to the team and Caleb Williams to make the most of this opportunity—football is unpredictable, and records only tell part of the story. All the teams in the NFC North Division have gotten better. No matter how “easy” the schedule is, the playoffs will be a tough road.