For years, the Green Bay Packers didn’t just beat the Chicago Bears, they dismissed them. In the Trubisky era, Packers veterans openly labeled Chicago as “fake contenders.” During the Justin Fields years, Green Bay players never hesitated to remind the Bears they weren’t on the same level. Respect wasn’t given, and frankly, it wasn’t earned.
That’s why Packers running back Josh Jacobs comments after the game on Sunday hits so differently. Speaking about what’s changed in Chicago, Jacobs said: “You see what the head coach is preaching, you see how the guys are embodying that. Even on the field, like they straining a little bit more, they doing a little bit more. You could tell that they are believing in what he's preaching.”
"They are believing in what he's preaching.”
This wasn’t empty post-game praise. It was a player who has been part of the rivalry acknowledging a shift. He saw the culture. He felt the change. And he said it out loud.
Make no mistake: Jacobs comments are significant because it came after a playoff-style game at Lambeau. A fully loaded Packers team needed everything to win. Chicago didn’t flinch. They fought and left the field as equals—not as the little brother. Even in a tough loss, they walked away with something the franchise hasn’t had from Green Bay in years: respect.
National analysts echoed it. Players across the league noticed it. Chicago fans felt it. This Bears team is real—built on Ben Johnson's identity and belief. The difference isn’t just Caleb Williams at quarterback. It’s leadership at the top. It’s a locker room that isn’t faking toughness but living it.
For the first time in a long time, even the Packers see it. Chicago is legit. The rivalry just woke up.
