Bears Get an Unbelievable Advantage: NFL's Shocking Divisional Round Kickoff Time Exposed!

The stage is set for a thrilling matchup as the NFL has officially announced the times for next weekend's Divisional Round games, and the Chicago Bears are embracing the cold. They will face off against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday at 5:30 p.m. at Soldier Field, marking what promises to be one of the most frigid games of the 2026 season.

With temperatures forecasted to be in the low teens and winds reaching up to 20 mph, wind chills could plunge below zero. The game, set against the backdrop of a sunset at 4:47 p.m., is expected to be one of the 10 coldest games in Soldier Field's storied history. For the Rams, this will be a stark contrast to their typical climate; they have spent the season competing indoors at SoFi Stadium in sunny southern California.

The term "Bear weather" has become somewhat of a myth in NFL circles, suggesting that the Bears may have an advantage in the cold. However, much of the Bears' roster, including quarterback Caleb Williams, wide receiver Rome Odunze, and running back D'Andre Swift, hail from warm-weather programs such as USC, Washington, and Georgia, respectively. This raises questions about how effectively the team can leverage their supposed home-field advantage.

The Bears enter the game as 3.5-point home underdogs and are aiming to capitalize on any perceived advantage their chilly conditions might provide. While they have faced a few cold-weather games this season—with temperatures hovering around 32-37 degrees—their opponents have not experienced conditions anywhere close to what they'll face this Sunday. The Rams' coldest game this year was a relatively balmy 45 degrees in Charlotte against the Panthers.

As the Rams prepare for this frigid encounter, it's worth noting that since quarterback Matthew Stafford joined the team in 2021, they have played only three games in temperatures of 35 degrees or colder, with a record of 1-2 in those outings. Furthermore, this will mark the Rams’ first visit to Soldier Field in January since 1985, adding an extra layer of historical significance to the game.

As the Bears gear up for this pivotal matchup, the narrative of "Bear weather" will undeniably play a role in how both teams approach the game. The combination of the late start time, the chilling temperatures, and the pressure of a Divisional Round matchup could make this not just a game of strategy, but a battle of will and endurance as well.

For fans and players alike, this clash promises to be more than just a contest of skill; it’s a test against the elements and a pivotal moment in the playoff race. As the Bears welcome the Rams to "Bear Weather," they hope to harness the chill and turn it into a decisive victory on their home turf.