Bears Soar to NFC North Lead After Remarkable Turnaround

The Chicago Bears (9-3) are riding high at the top of the NFC North heading into Week 14, a first for the franchise through 13 weeks since 2006. After stumbling to an 0-2 start, the Bears have transformed into one of the league’s most resilient teams. Much of this turnaround is credited to head coach Ben Johnson, whose leadership has instilled belief and confidence across the roster.

Second-year quarterback Caleb Williams has been central to Chicago’s resurgence, but the change has been felt across the entire team. According to Kevin Fishbain of The Athletic, Johnson pinpointed the pivotal moment when the team truly began to believe in its potential. That moment came in a Week 4 25-24 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, a game that Johnson says solidified the team’s confidence.

“I think you really felt the belief starting to build then,” Johnson said of the Raiders win. “Just that we’re close in a game at the end and we found a way to win instead of lose. That moniker has kind of stuck with us there the rest of the way.”

Chicago’s success this season has been defined by its ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Seven of the Bears’ nine wins have been by one possession, highlighting a team that thrives in clutch moments. As Johnson has emphasized, this confidence has become a defining trait for the organization.

1. Belief and Momentum

The Bears’ transformation from early-season struggles to division leaders has been fueled by belief. Johnson’s approach has emphasized resilience, focus, and the ability to execute in tight games. The Week 4 victory over the Raiders is widely seen as the catalyst, a turning point when the team realized it could compete with any opponent. Caleb Williams’ growth as a quarterback mirrors the team’s evolution. His poise and decision-making in late-game scenarios have helped Chicago secure several narrow victories. Williams’ performance has been complemented by a supporting cast that now trusts one another implicitly. Johnson has also stressed the psychological aspect of the game. By fostering a culture where players believe in themselves and in their teammates, the Bears have cultivated a winning mentality that has carried them through difficult moments. As Chicago heads deeper into the season, momentum has become a powerful tool. Each close win has reinforced the team’s identity and provided the confidence needed to maintain a division lead.

2. Winning in the Clutch

Chicago’s record this season tells a story of persistence and poise. With seven of nine wins decided by a single possession, the Bears have repeatedly shown an ability to perform under pressure. Clutch performances have been a hallmark of the team, creating a reputation for toughness and resilience. Johnson has instilled a sense of accountability, where every player understands their role in critical moments. This cohesion has allowed the Bears to execute effectively in tight games, a factor that has been crucial to their turnaround. The defensive unit has played a significant role, making key stops in late-game situations. Meanwhile, the offense has consistently found ways to capitalize in the closing minutes, demonstrating versatility and adaptability. Ultimately, Chicago’s success in close games is a reflection of preparation, belief, and execution. The Bears have proven that they can rise to the occasion, a quality that has fueled their climb to the top of the NFC North.

3. Rivalry Spotlight: Green Bay

Week 14 brings a pivotal matchup against longtime rival Green Bay, a game that could define the Bears’ season. Historically, the Packers hold a 108-96-6 advantage in the series, and recent history has been challenging for Chicago. During the Aaron Rodgers era, Green Bay went 25-5 against the Bears, while current quarterback Jordan Love has posted a 3-1 record versus Chicago. A victory over the Packers would carry both symbolic and practical significance. Not only would it cement Chicago’s standing atop the NFC North, but it would also give the team a two-game lead with just four games remaining. Such a win could signal the arrival of a new era under Johnson’s leadership. The matchup offers an opportunity for the Bears to prove that their turnaround is no fluke. With momentum on their side and belief firmly established, Chicago aims to demonstrate that it can compete with the league’s elite. If successful, the win would serve as a statement to the entire NFL: the Bears are back, and a new chapter under Ben Johnson is unfolding.