Bears predictions: Round 1 playoff game vs. rival Packers

The Sun-Times’ Bears experts make their picks for the wild-card round rivalry game against the Packers on Saturday night at Soldier Field (7 p.m., Fox 32/Amazon Prime Video):

Patrick Finley

Packers, 27-24: The Bears have yet to lead the Packers in regulation this season. To pick the Bears would be to count on their end-of-game magic once again — and on a defense that has allowed 929 yards the past two games. Season: 10-7.

Jason Lieser

Bears, 24-23: The Bears-Packers rivalry returned to being an actual rivalry this season, and there's no better way to settle it than with another thriller, this time in the playoffs. Season: 9-8.

Scoop Jackson

Bears, 24-21: ‘How far will the Bears go in the playoffs?’ seems to be the question of choice floating over the entire city. The answer, unfortunately: Not past next weekend. So enjoy this one. Season: 8-9.

Steve Greenberg

Packers, 27-23: It was a terrific Bears season, and they played with house money for as long as they could, but 11 wins was ahead of schedule. The defense — not playoff-ready — has to be improved. The quarterback — still a step away himself — has great days ahead. Season: 12-5.

Mark Potash

Bears, 27-24: The Bears face a big challenge to respond after an underwhelming performance against the Lions that looked like a red flag. But until further notice, Ben Johnson gets the benefit of the doubt. Season: 11-6.