What would it take for the Bears to secure a playoff spot and the No. 1 draft pick? Here's the scenario.
The Bears have a unique opportunity on the horizon as this season nears its end.
Is it possible for the Bears to clinch a playoff spot and secure the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft? The short answer is yes.
As it stands, the Bears are in a prime position to land the No. 1 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, thanks to the Carolina Panthers' dismal 1-12 record. They currently hold a two-game lead over the Patriots and the Commanders, both with three wins.
According to ESPN, the Bears have a 95% chance of claiming the top pick in the draft, provided the Panthers lose at least two of their next four games, or several other scenarios play out that involve wins by the Patriots and the Commanders. It seems like a relatively straightforward path to securing that coveted first pick.
On the playoff front, things are more complex. The New York Times gives the Bears an 8% chance of making the postseason.
However, if the Bears manage to win their remaining four games of the season, their playoff odds skyrocket to 61%, according to The New York Times' calculations. To break it down, here's what needs to occur for the Bears to make the playoffs should they win all their remaining games:
1. The Vikings must lose at least three of their final four games.2. Both the Seahawks and Rams need to lose at least twice.3. Two out of the Buccaneers, Falcons, or Saints must lose at least two of their last four games.
It's crucial to note that any loss by the Bears significantly diminishes their playoff chances.
Let's zero in on next week's matchup against the Browns. A loss in that game drops the Bears' playoff probability to 5%, while a victory increases their odds to 15%.
The race for the NFC Wild Card is tight, with the Packers currently holding the final spot at 6-7. Four other teams, including the Bears, are also at 6-7, while the Commanders and Cardinals, with four and three wins, respectively, are not yet eliminated.
In the NFC North division, the Detroit Lions have a strong hold with a 9-4 record, leading the second-place Minnesota Vikings by two games.
Here's a glimpse of the Bears' remaining opponents for the final four weeks:
Week 15: @ Cleveland BrownsWeek 16: vs. Arizona CardinalsWeek 17: vs. Atlanta FalconsWeek 18: @ Green Bay Packers
Can the Bears pull off the unexpected? Stay tuned, as the NFL's final four weeks promise to bring more excitement.
| POLL | ||
14 DECEMBRE | 53 ANSWERS What would it take for the Bears to secure a playoff spot and the No. 1 draft pick? Here's the scenario. Will the Bears make the playoffs? | ||
| Yes | 22 | 41.5 % |
| No | 31 | 58.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
