Packers secure final NFC playoff spot with win over Bears

The Green Bay Packers seal their fate and head into the playoffs with a 17-9 win over their NFC North rival Chicago Bears.

Jordan Love and the Packers knew a win Sunday would earn them a spot, and they quickly got what they needed in the second game of the game.

The Packers had 6:42 left in the game as Love worked his way downfield to Chicago's 10-yard line. He retreated from third out and first base and threw a pass to rookie receiver Dontaevion Wicks for the game's first touchdown.

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But that was the only offense Green Bay could muster in the first half, as the Bears made two field goals for a 7-6 lead.

However, the Packers got off to a strong start in the second half with a first kickoff. Wicks again scored, this time for a 12-yard touchdown, making it his second of the day and giving the Packers a 14-6 lead.

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The Bears and Justin Fields looked to be hitting their stride offensively in the second half, but couldn't find the color in the paint. After a successful punt on the first drive, the next drive ended in a field goal to make it 14-9.

But when the Packers needed a stop, their defense continually stepped up.

Jayden Reed of the Green Bay Packers runs the ball during the fourth quarter against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field on January 7, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (John Fisher/Getty Images)

Green Bay's field goal in the fourth quarter gave them a bit more of a lead, but Beau Melton nearly ended the game with a touchdown grab that was reversed.

Either way, they got the job done and the Packers are now the No. 7 seed in the NFC and will play the Dallas Cowboys next weekend.

Love had a great game, throwing 27 of 32 for 316 yards, two touchdowns, and no interceptions. And while Wicks scored two touchdowns, fellow rookie Jaden Reed led the team with four catches for 112 yards, including a 59-yard catch-and-run.

Aaron Jones also had 111 rushing yards on 22 carries for the Packers, and the defense was able to pick up five sacks on Fields.

Jordan Love of the Green Bay Packers scrambles during the third quarter against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field on January 7, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (John Fisher/Getty Images)

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For the Bears, Fields' future with the team could be in question since Chicago owns the No. 1 overall pick. He completed 11 of 16 for 148 yards through the air while rushing for 27 yards. Chicago's DJ Moore had four catches for 64 yards.