The Chicago Bears will wrap the 2022 season against the Minnesota Vikings. At first glance, it’s a completely meaningless game for Chicago. They were eliminated from playoff contention weeks ago; Justin Fields isn’t playing and there’s no chance to play spoiler with Minnesota already in the postseason.
But the Bears have an opportunity to lock down the No. 1 selection in the 2023 NFL draft — if all goes right.
First, Chicago needs to lose. Which shouldn’t be a problem with Fields sidelined and a Vikings team with plenty to play for. Next, the Texans need to win. Which usually would be a tall order to ask for a two-win team. But they’re facing a bad Colts team, which means Houston will have a chance to win.
While the Bears did defeat the Texans back in Week 3 — which would give Houston the tie breaker — they also tied with Indianapolis back in Week 1, which counts for half a win and half a loss. If Chicago loses and the Texans win, there’s no tie breaker.
Regardless of the outcome on Sunday, the Bears will finish with no worse than the No. 4 pick. If Chicago loses, they’ll guaranteed a top-two selection.
Former Bears coach and current Texans coach Lovie Smith’s future is in question heading into Week 18. Perhaps his final game he’ll help out his former team by getting Houston a win and Chicago the No. 1 pick.
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