Chicago Bears vs. New Orleans Saints: A Comprehensive Guide to the Gridiron Rivalry

From the bustling streets of the Windy City to the vibrant heart of the Big Easy, the storied rivalry between the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints has captivated football fans for decades. These two iconic franchises have etched their names in NFL history with thrilling games, legendary players, and passionate fan bases.

The Genesis of the Rivalry

The Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints first met on the gridiron in 1967, shortly after the Saints joined the NFL as an expansion team. The Saints initially struggled to find their footing in the league, but the rivalry quickly gained momentum in the 1980s and 1990s.

All-Time Record and Memorable Moments

Over the course of 50 regular season meetings, the Chicago Bears hold a 29-21 advantage over the New Orleans Saints. Some of the most memorable moments in the rivalry include:

• 1985 NFC Championship Game: The Saints stunned the Bears 21-0 in the Superdome, sending them to their first Super Bowl appearance.
• 1991 NFC Wild Card Game: The Bears overcame a 14-point deficit to defeat the Saints 16-13 in overtime at Soldier Field.
• 2006 NFC Divisional Round: Drew Brees led the Saints to a thrilling 27-24 overtime victory over the Bears in Chicago.

Key Players in the Rivalry

Numerous legendary players have graced the field in this storied rivalry, including:

• Walter Payton (Bears): The NFL's all-time leading rusher was a dominant force against the Saints, averaging over 100 yards per game.
• Drew Brees (Saints): The Saints' all-time leading passer was a thorn in the Bears' side, throwing for 3,000+ yards and 20+ touchdowns against them.
• Mike Ditka (Bears): The legendary Bears coach led Chicago to two NFC Championship victories over the Saints.
• Sean Payton (Saints): The former Saints head coach has a 6-5 record against the Bears, including a victory in the 2006 Divisional Round.

Fan Bases and Stadium Atmosphere

Both the Chicago Bears and New Orleans Saints boast passionate fan bases that create an electric atmosphere at each meeting.

• Soldier Field: The Bears' historic home field is known for its raucous crowd and iconic "Monsters of the Midway" statue.
• Mercedes-Benz Superdome: The Saints' state-of-the-art stadium is a modern marvel with a retractable roof and a vibrant crowd that makes every game a party.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When attending a Bears vs. Saints game, avoid:

• Arriving late: The atmosphere outside the stadium is part of the experience, so arrive early to soak it all in.
• Dressing inappropriately: The weather in Chicago and New Orleans can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes.
• Getting into altercations: Remember, it's just a game. Be respectful of fans from both teams and avoid confrontations.

Tables

FAQs

• Who has the most wins in the Bears vs. Saints rivalry?
• Chicago Bears (29)
• What is the largest margin of victory in the rivalry?
• 21-0 (Saints over Bears, 1985 NFC Championship Game)
• Who is the all-time leading passer in the rivalry?
• Drew Brees (Saints)
• Who is the all-time leading rusher in the rivalry?
• Walter Payton (Bears)
• Where will the next Bears vs. Saints game be played?
• Mercedes-Benz Superdome (2023 season)
• How can I get tickets to a Bears vs. Saints game?
• Check the official websites of the Bears and Saints, or visit a reputable ticket-selling platform.