Chicago Bears claim top seed in NFC in Week 14 NFL power rankings

The Chicago Bears have claimed the No. 1 seed in the NFC heading into Week 14, following a crucial victory over the reigning Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, in Week 13. This, combined with the Los Angeles Rams loss to the Carolina Panthers, allowed Chicago to take the top spot despite both teams holding a 9-3 record. The Bears own the tie-breaker due to a stronger conference record, standing at 6-2 compared to the Rams' 4-3.

This week, the Bears face an immediate test to maintain their top seed and NFC North lead as they take on the second-place Green Bay Packers. Meanwhile, the Rams will go up against the Arizona Cardinals, who were already eliminated from playoff contention after their recent defeat.

Expert Analysis

Iyer: Chicagos running game has reached a level that allows Ben Johnson to enhance their defensive performance, leading to a dominant showing in Philadelphia. The Bears are clearly becoming more formidable each week.

Wirth: Ben Johnson commands the playbook and energizes the locker room. With him and a powerful running back duo, Chicago has a true leader to rely on.

Johnson: Prior to Week 13, the Bears were seen as a fluke due to a negative point differential. Their emphatic win over the Eagles in Philadelphia dispels that idea. Caleb Williams may not be at his best, but Chicagos rushing offense, led by Johnson, and their improving defense, make them a serious contender. The Bears-Packers games, including Week 14, are likely to decide the NFC North champion.

Jacob Infante, Pro Football and Sports Network: Despite any skepticism about their wins, the Bears remain atop the NFC North at 9-3. Their Week 13 victory over the Eagles marked their fifth consecutive win and ninth in ten games. Rushing for 281 yards against Philadelphia demonstrates that Chicago is a legitimate NFC contender, capable of challenging even the strongest teams in the playoffs.

Author: Sophia Brooks