Nov 16, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (8) runs with the ball against the Cincinnati Bengals during the first half at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers is set to face the Chicago Bears this Sunday at Soldier Field, despite dealing with a small fracture in his left wrist. This matchup holds particular significance for Rodgers, given his long-standing history of success against the Bears during his tenure with the Green Bay Packers. The Steelers, currently standing at 6-4, will take on the 7-3 Bears in a game that adds another chapter to one of football’s storied rivalries.
During a press conference on Wednesday, Rodgers addressed his reputation as a “villain” among Bears fans. Reflecting on his time in Green Bay, he stated, “I’d rather not be. I mean, I’m not in Green Bay anymore. I feel like we can let bygones be bygones.” He acknowledged the rivalry’s importance, comparing it to legendary sports matchups like the Lakers versus the Celtics and the Red Sox against the Yankees.
Rodgers boasts an impressive career record of 24-5 against the Bears in regular-season games from 2005 through the 2022 season. He has thrown for a remarkable 64 touchdowns while only tossing 10 interceptions in those encounters. “There’s incentive for every opponent, but I have enjoyed many a Sunday and Monday and Thursdays in that city,” he added, recognizing Chicago as a vibrant sports town with passionate fans.
As the game approaches, the Steelers have not yet confirmed Rodgers’ playing status. Backup quarterback Mason Rudolph, who stepped in after Rodgers sustained his injury during the Steelers’ victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on November 16, 2023, completed 12 of 16 passes for 127 yards and a touchdown in that game. Rudolph expressed his eagerness for the chance to start against the Bears, saying, “You have to be chomping at the bit every time your number’s called, otherwise you’re going to miss an opportunity.”
The Steelers are currently listed as 2.5-point underdogs against the Bears, according to ESPN BET. With the stakes high in this rivalry matchup, both teams will be looking to secure a crucial victory as the season progresses. The outcome could have significant implications for playoff positioning as the NFL season heats up.
