Overview
- Forecasts call for air temperatures near 5–10°F at kickoff with wind chills potentially dropping to about -15, which could place the matchup among the coldest games played at Soldier Field in recent years.
- The Bears announced enhanced safety steps including three warming centers, permission for battery-heated apparel subject to extra screening, hot beverages and hand warmers for sale, reminders to hydrate, and a ban on bringing cardboard into the stadium.
- Tailgating and parking policies will be tightened, with no open fires anywhere, no liquefied-fuel grills or heaters in garages or the lower Waldron Deck, no tents or canopies, and no propane tanks over 19 pounds.
- Weather.com guidance cited by outlets projects fewer deep throws and a greater likelihood of fourth-down tries over long field goals, potentially affecting kickers Cairo Santos and Andre Szmyt.
- Bears players and coaches have downplayed the conditions as routine "Bear weather," while some fans have sought to resell tickets due to the expected subzero wind chills.