Making the playoffs is difficult in the NFL. Few teams know this better than the Chicago Bears. They’ve only done it twice since 2011, and were bounced in the first round both times. After going 7-10 last year, it is hoped they can finally make a run at the postseason in 2024. For that to happen, they’ll need a better roster. GM Ryan Poles is currently working on that. However, sometimes the best way to reach January football is through a favorable schedule. Recent history hasn’t been kind to the Bears in this regard.
Last season, they played a team that finished with a winning record eight times. Another three had at least eight wins. Yet the Bears still came two ugly 4th quarter collapses away from a wild card berth. Warren Sharp of Sharp Football Analysis believes their chances to break through will be even better this year. According to his future projections for every team in the league, Chicago ranks 3rd among the easiest schedules, trailing only the Atlanta Falcons and Los Angeles Chargers.
“With odds released for all 32 NFL teams, we are now able to calculate NFL Strength of Schedule using projected win totals from Vegas oddsmakers.”
The Chicago Bears can’t rely on projections to guide them.
While the numbers may say their schedule is an easier one, common sense says otherwise. Four of their games will be against the Lions and Packers. Both teams made the playoffs last year. Detroit reached the NFC championship. Green Bay was a 4th quarter drive from doing the same. They also have the reigning NFC champion 49ers and the always-dangerous Los Angeles Rams under Sean McVay. One cannot overlook the ascending Houston Texans and new quarterback C.J. Stroud either.
The schedule could soften with opponents like Carolina, New England, Washington, and Tennessee, all of whom appear to be in rebuild mode. The Chicago Bears should win those games. They also have winnable matchups with Seattle, Indianapolis, Arizona, and Jacksonville. So, while calling it one of the easiest might be a bit generous, it is one a well-constructed team like this one can take advantage of, especially if they get improved play from the quarterback position.
Subscribe to the BFR podcast and ride shotgun with Dave and Ficky as they break down Bears football like nobody else.
Strength of schedule means nothing.. if you can’t beat the good teams, what’s the point of making the playoffs. Make the playoffs by beating bad teams then lose in the first round.
A lot of this is because Vegas projects us to be absolutely awful in 2024.
Hey Boogie, I will be attending the Bears game in London this year again. I hope we win this time. If we do, then meet me for dinner either in China Town or on the Strand; it’s on me.