Los Angeles Rams at Chicago Bears divisional round verdict?
The Los Angeles Rams at Chicago Bears divisional round matchup lands Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Soldier Field in Chicago. Kickoff is 3:30 p.m. Pacific and NBC will carry the game live.
After a 34-31 wild-card win over Carolina, the Rams arrive with momentum. However, the divisional round raises stakes dramatically for both teams. Watch Matthew Stafford and Davante Adams because their chemistry can decide the game. Also look for Kyren Williams, whose rushing will test Chicago’s front seven.
On the other sideline, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams and running back D’Andre Swift pose big threats. Meanwhile, pass rushers Montez Sweat and the Bears’ veteran secondary will probe Los Angeles’ protection. Because Kevin Dotson’s status looms, the Rams’ offensive line story adds intrigue entering a win-or-go-home Sunday.
Expect cold weather and a loud Soldier Field crowd to shape play calling and turnovers. Therefore, coaching adjustments will matter. This preview breaks down injuries and matchups.
Los Angeles Rams at Chicago Bears divisional round — Last meeting and what it means
The teams last met in Week 4 of 2024 at Soldier Field. The Bears won 24-18. That game set narratives that still matter this week. Because the Bears won at home, Chicago gains confidence in short-yardage and red zone play. However, the Rams showed resilience and running balance despite the loss.
Key takeaways from Week 4
- Matthew Stafford: threw for 224 yards, no touchdowns and one late interception. Stafford showed timing but also risk under pressure. Because he has more weapons now, expectations shift for the divisional round.
- Kyren Williams: rushed for 94 yards and a touchdown. Williams imposed a physical running style. Therefore the Bears must prepare for sustained ground attack.
- Caleb Williams: passed for 157 yards and a touchdown. The rookie showed poise and playmaking ability. Meanwhile, his mobility added a challenge for the Rams’ defense.
- Rams receiving corps: Tutu Atwell led the team in catches amid injuries to Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp. As a result, the Rams leaned on depth receiving options.
- Defensive matchups: Chicago pressured Stafford and limited big passing plays. However, Los Angeles still found ways to move the chains.
How the Week 4 result affects divisional round expectations
The earlier meeting offers a blueprint for both teams. Because the Bears beat the Rams at Soldier Field, they will emphasize pass rush and clock control. Conversely, the Rams learned to commit to Kyren Williams and quick passing. Therefore expect adjustments from both coaching staffs.
Bullet points for divisional-round focus
- Rams will assess offensive line health, especially Kevin Dotson, because protection dictated Week 4 outcomes.
- Bears will test matchups with Montez Sweat and their veteran secondary to force turnovers.
- Special teams and weather could swing field position and play calling.
This section frames form and habits each team must correct or exploit on January 18.
Los Angeles Rams at Chicago Bears divisional round
| Player | Team | Position | Recent stat/game | Injury status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Matthew Stafford | Los Angeles Rams | QB | Week 4 vs Bears: 224 passing yards, 0 TD, 1 INT | Healthy | Veteran passer; must avoid turnovers |
| Davante Adams | Los Angeles Rams | WR | Primary target in playoff prep | Active | Reliable deep threat and red zone option |
| Kyren Williams | Los Angeles Rams | RB | Week 4 vs Bears: 94 rushing yards, 1 TD | Active | Power runner who controls pace |
| Kevin Dotson | Los Angeles Rams | OL | Limited practice this week; return possible | Limited practice | Key for run and pass protection |
| Tutu Atwell | Los Angeles Rams | WR | Led team in receptions Week 4 amid injuries | Active | Speed option when starters are out |
| Caleb Williams | Chicago Bears | QB | Week 4 vs Rams: 157 passing yards, 1 TD | Active | Rookie with mobility and playmaking upside |
| D’Andre Swift | Chicago Bears | RB | Dual threat as runner and receiver | Active | Explosive in space; tests linebackers |
| Montez Sweat | Chicago Bears | EDGE | Primary pass rusher matchup vs Rams OLine | Active | Pressure creator who forces quick decisions |
| Kevin Byard | Chicago Bears | S | Veteran leader in secondary | Active | Key in disguising coverages and turnovers |
| Colston Loveland | Chicago Bears | TE | Red zone target and blocker | Active | Important matchup vs Rams linebackers |
How to watch and listen: Los Angeles Rams at Chicago Bears divisional round
- TV broadcast: NBC will carry the game live. Tune to NBC for full pregame coverage and national commentary. For NBC sports information see NBC Sports.
- Live stream: Peacock will stream the broadcast for subscribers. Therefore if you prefer streaming, sign in at Peacock.
- Mobile and out-of-market stream: NFL+ offers live audio and selected video for subscribers. Also check NFL+ for on-the-go access at NFL+.
- Local radio and listen options:
- ESPN LA 710 AM will carry the Rams feed in Los Angeles. Listen online at ESPN LA 710 AM.
- 93.1 Jack FM provides local coverage and fan reaction in parts of the market at 93.1 Jack FM.
- Westwood One will carry the national radio broadcast for many listeners. Stream or find affiliates at Westwood One Sports.
- Tu Liga Radio will offer Spanish-language coverage for fans who follow that feed.
- Game details to remember: kickoff is Sunday, January 18, 2026, at 3:30 p.m. Pacific. NBC and streaming partners will begin pregame windows earlier.
- Fan promotions: The Little Caesars Pizza!Pizza! Pregame Challenge runs during playoff windows. Because it offers NFL game-day rewards, check the Little Caesars app for promotion details on game day.
- Quick tips to watch or listen smoothly:
- Log in early to Peacock or NFL+ to avoid delays.
- Use a reliable Wi-Fi connection for streaming.
- If you follow local radio, confirm station streams ahead of kickoff.
For deeper reads on matchups and weather that could affect viewing and play, see RamsNews previews like Will Rams exploit Bears’ weak defense this Sunday? and Could Rams vs Bears playoff weather decide the game? and Why Rams vs Bears Divisional Round schedule matters?.
Conclusion
High stakes meet classic rivalry as the Los Angeles Rams at Chicago Bears divisional round delivers playoff drama. Momentum, injuries, and coaching adjustments will shape the outcome. Matthew Stafford and Davante Adams must protect possessions and finish drives. Kyren Williams will control tempo with the run game. Caleb Williams and D’Andre Swift can change momentum with explosive plays. Meanwhile, edge rushers like Montez Sweat will test Los Angeles’ protection and force quick decisions.
For fans who plan to watch or listen, NBC carries the broadcast and Peacock and NFL+ offer live stream options. Also tune in to local radio feeds like ESPN LA 710 AM or Westwood One to listen live. Because weather and special teams can swing field position, expect strategic changes in play calling.
Finally, stay with Rams News LLC for deeper analysis, injury updates, and fan coverage. Visit Rams News LLC and follow @ZachGatsby on Twitter for breaking news, previews, and postgame reaction. Whether you watch live on TV, stream online, or listen on radio, this divisional playoff promises tense, must-see football.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When and where is the Los Angeles Rams at Chicago Bears divisional round game?
The game is Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Soldier Field in Chicago. Kickoff is 3:30 p.m. Pacific. NBC carries the national broadcast.
How can I watch or live stream the game?
Watch on NBC or stream on Peacock. Also use NFL+ for mobile and out-of-market coverage. Log in early to avoid delays and ensure a stable connection.
How can I listen to the game on radio?
Local radio options include ESPN LA 710 AM and 93.1 Jack FM. Westwood One offers the national radio feed. Tu Liga Radio provides Spanish-language coverage in select markets.
What are the key player updates to check before kickoff?
Matthew Stafford and Davante Adams are active. Kyren Williams remains a key workhorse. Kevin Dotson was a limited practice participant and could be active. Check final injury reports closer to kickoff.
How do fans join the Little Caesars Pizza!Pizza! Pregame Challenge?
Download or open the Little Caesars app, opt into the Pizza!Pizza! Pregame Challenge, and follow the app prompts on game day. Rewards and entry windows run during the playoff broadcast.