Soldier Field set for brutal conditions as snow and wind threaten Bears-Packers Wild Card game

As the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers prepare to renew their historic rivalry in the NFC Wild Card round at Soldier Field on Saturday night (Jan. 10), Mother Nature could play a starring role.

Current forecasts show cold temperatures, gusty winds and at least a chance of snow that could influence everything from passing games to kicking and special teams. Snow showers are possible into the early evening, and strong wind gusts and frigid “feels-like” temperatures, possibly in the single digits, are expected to create a classic Chicago winter football environment.

What the forecast looks like

According to multiple weather services and NFLWeather models:

• Temperature around kickoff: Near freezing in the low-30s
• Wind gusts: 20–30+ mph, with potential for higher spikes
• Chance of snow: Moderate - early snow showers likely around kickoff, possibly tapering off later
• Feels-Like: Could drop into the teens or single digits due to wind chill

The projected low temperatures and wind make Soldier Field’s open-air setting feel much colder than the numbers. Forecasts suggest the “real feel” could be near 9°F at times thanks to wind chill, conditions perfect for memorable playoff weather. Snow accumulation isn’t expected to be heavy, with some models limiting totals to light flurries or small dustings. Still, even minimal snow combined with wind can affect footing, visibility and the overall flow of the game.

How weather could impact the game

Passing game challenges

Heavy wind and snow can make timing throws harder, particularly on deep downfield attempts. Crosswinds can affect the ball’s flight, meaning quarterbacks may need to rely more on intermediate and short throws rather than vertical shots.

Run game more valuable

Games in cold, snowy conditions typically favor physical, ground-oriented offensive plans. Both the Bears and Packers have shown running ability, and a weather-induced emphasis on rushing could slow the pace and keep drives shorter.

Special teams and field goals

Windy conditions are notorious for wreaking havoc on field goal attempts and punts. Both teams’ kickers could see normal distances shift dramatically with gusts pushing balls off-course. Coaches may opt for aggressive fourth-down calls rather than testing the wind.

Ball security

Cold and snowy conditions make the football slicker and harder to grip. Ball security becomes critical, and teams that protect the football and dominate time of possession often have an edge.

Both the Bears and Packers are acclimated to winter conditions, but the combination of wind, cold and playoff stakes means strategy could tilt toward defense, run-heavy drives and clock management rather than high-flying aerial attack. This setting sets the stage for a gritty, classic NFC North postseason battle, and with weather predictions trending consistently cold and breezy, fans should prepare for football played as much against the elements as against the opposing team.

As kickoff approaches, tracking the hourly forecast will remain critical for teams and fans alike. Expect last-minute weather updates to be a fixture of pre-game coverage because in Chicago playoff weather, conditions can change rapidly and significantly. Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET this Saturday. You can follow along with our live coverage of the game right here on AS USA.

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