The Chicago Bears are preparing for a challenging matchup against the Minnesota Vikings after a strong start to their 2025 season. The two teams will face off one week later this season than they did last year, when the Bears suffered a narrow 27-24 loss at Soldier Field, surrendering an 11-point fourth-quarter lead on “Monday Night Football.”
Defensive back Josh Blackwell reflected on last season’s encounters, noting the Bears’ most recent victory over the Vikings came on November 16 at U.S. Bank Stadium with a last-minute field goal sealing a 19-17 win. However, he emphasized that the team is focused on the current season and aims to build upon their Week 1 performance rather than dwell on past outcomes.
In their season opener, the Bears posted a high-scoring 59-37 win against the Carolina Panthers. They expect a considerably tougher contest against the Vikings, whose defense has been described as formidable. Wide receiver Ben Johnson pointed out Wednesday at Halas Hall that Minnesota’s defense remains “a handful each and every week,” and highlighted the team's momentum after a recent impressive victory.
The Vikings recently overturned a 29-point deficit to defeat the Green Bay Packers 39-29, with backup quarterback Carson Wentz leading the comeback. Johnson noted the Vikings are “hot,” riding a six-game winning streak that spans the end of last season and the start of this one. Cornerback Jaylon Johnson also acknowledged the strength of Minnesota’s offense under head coach Kevin O’Connell, describing it as consistently strong over the years and expressing eagerness for the competitive clash ahead.
The Bears revealed progress in several areas during their Wednesday media session, notably in the development of quarterback Caleb Williams. Williams, alongside Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, received the FedEx Air and Ground NFL Players of the Week honors for Week 1. Williams recorded 334 total yards and four touchdowns—two passing and two rushing—with a passer rating of 124.1.
Wide receiver Ben Johnson highlighted Williams’ growing ability to anticipate plays and make quicker decisions on the field, a marked improvement that began taking shape last season. This increase in decisiveness suggests that Williams is gaining confidence and a clearer vision of the field, potentially benefiting the Bears’ offensive efficiency going forward.
As the Bears prepare for their next divisional showdown with the Vikings, the team hopes to continue riding the momentum from their opening game while confronting the challenges posed by a well-performing, confident opponent.