The Los Angeles Rams travel to Chicago’s Soldier Field on Jan. 18, 2026, for a NFC Divisional Round clash with the Chicago Bears. The winner moves on to the NFC Championship, putting a Super Bowl berth within reach. The game airs on NBC, streams on Peacock, and offers Spanish simulcasts on Telemundo and Universo.
When and Where: The Basics
- Date & Kickoff: Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026 – 4:30 p.m. CT
- Venue: Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois
- Broadcast: NBC (English); Telemundo & Universo (Spanish)
- Streaming: Peacock (requires Premium subscription)
- Mobile: NFL app for carriers or Peacock subscribers
Road to Soldier Field
Chicago Bears
The Bears entered the playoffs as the NFC’s third seed with a 12‑4 record, anchored by a league‑best defense in points allowed. Quarterback Justin Fields posted 3,850 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, 650 rushing yards and four rushing scores. The defensive front seven—led by Akiem Hicks, Roquan Smith and young pass‑rusher Josh Allen—dominated the trenches, while cornerback Jaylon Johnson capped a secondary that consistently shut down elite receivers.
Los Angeles Rams
Los Angeles earned the NFC’s second seed at 11‑5, receiving a first‑round bye before traveling to Chicago. Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for 4,200 yards and 28 touchdowns, connecting with star wideout Cooper Kupp and explosive rookie Puka Nacua. The Rams’ defense, despite injury setbacks, remained top‑10 in yards allowed; defensive end Aaron Donald continued to anchor a unit bolstered by emerging talent such as Troy Hill and Daniel Patterson.
Historical Context
The Rams and Bears previously met in the 2022 Wild Card round, where Los Angeles rallied to a 30‑23 victory. That narrow loss left a lingering sense of unfinished business for Chicago. The rivalry dates back to the 1970s, featuring classic defensive battles that still color the narrative of this divisional matchup.
What’s at Stake
A win propels the victor to the NFC Championship and a potential Super Bowl appearance. For the Rams, advancing validates Sean McVay’s resurgence and the high‑payroll investments in Stafford, Kupp and Donald. A loss could reignite doubts about the coaching direction and roster sustainability. For the Bears, a victory would mark their first NFC Championship game since 2006, cementing Justin Fields as an elite quarterback and revitalizing the franchise’s legacy. A defeat would extend Chicago’s playoff drought and likely trigger further front‑office evaluation.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Fields vs. Donald: The quarterback‑pass‑rusher duel could dictate the game’s tempo, with Donald’s pressure forcing Fields into hurried decisions.
- Stafford vs. Johnson: Jaylon Johnson’s coverage might limit Kupp and Nacua, pushing Stafford toward short‑route concepts and reliance on his mobility.
- Special Teams: Both squads struggled with field goals and punts this season; a pivotal play could swing momentum in a tight contest.
How to Stay Connected
- Peacock: Free-to‑air NBC feed with a Premium subscription for ad‑free viewing.
- NFL Mobile App: Live stream for verified carriers or Peacock subscribers.
- Local Radio: Chicago’s WSCR 670 AM and Los Angeles’ KSPN 710 AM provide play‑by‑play commentary.
Final Thoughts
The Rams‑Bears Divisional clash promises a classic playoff showdown, featuring seasoned veterans, rising stars and strategic chess matches on both sides of the ball. With a ticket to the NFC Championship on the line, the outcome will shape each franchise’s postseason narrative and keep fans on the edge of their seats. Whether you watch on NBC, stream via Peacock, or listen on the radio, this game delivers the high drama and pure excitement that define postseason football.
