What do the Bears need to clinch the NFC North title in NFL Week 17?
The Chicago Bears, who have already clinched their playoff spot, are in pole position to secure the NFC North division title.
The race to the finish of the 2025 NFL regular season is still red‑hot, with only two weeks left on the schedule.
In the NFC, the division leaders ahead of Week 17 are:
- 1. Seattle Seahawks (12-3) | NFC West
- 2. Chicago Bears (11-4) | NFC North
- 3. Philadelphia Eagles (10-5) | NFC East*
- 4. Carolina Panthers (8-7) | NFC South**
* Eagles have already locked up the NFC East title
** Panthers are yet to clinch a playoff spot
How can the Bears clinch the NFC North in Week 17?
The Bears have already punched their ticket to the postseason, regardless of what happens over the final two weeks. They can secure the NFC North title as soon as this week with any of the following scenarios:
- Bears win vs 49ers
- Packers loss vs Ravens
- Bears tie + Packers tie
We're IN 🐻⬇️ pic.twitter.com/OmlwYF0aM5
— Chicago Bears (@ChicagoBears) December 22, 2025
Bears vs 49ers: time, how to watch
On Dec. 28, the Bears take on the 11-4 San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium, in a Sunday Night Football clash that kicks off at 8:20 p.m. ET/5:20 p.m. PT. In the U.S., the game will air nationally on NBC. Your streaming options include fubo, which offers a free trial.
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