Vikings at Bears: NFL Week 1 Game Preview – Monday, September 8, 2025

The 2025 NFL season kicks off with a bang as the Minnesota Vikings take on the Chicago Bears in a primetime NFC North showdown at Soldier Field on Monday, September 8, at 7:15 PM CT. This Week 1 clash, broadcast on ESPN and ABC, promises to be a thrilling opener, pitting two division rivals with young quarterbacks and revamped rosters against each other. With new faces, bold strategies, and a raucous Chicago crowd, this game is set to ignite the 2025 season with fireworks. Here’s everything you need to know about the matchup, from key players to watch, team dynamics, and how to catch the action.

Game Details

• Date and Time: Monday, September 8, 2025, at 7:15 PM CT
• Location: Soldier Field, Chicago, Illinois
• TV/Streaming: ESPN and ABC (simulcast), with streaming available on NFL+, the ESPN app, and Fubo (free trial available). Joe Buck (play-by-play), Troy Aikman (analyst), and Lisa Salters (sideline reporter) will call the game.
• Radio: KFAN (Vikings Audio Network) for Minnesota fans; SiriusXM for Bears fans.
• Tickets: Available via StubHub for fans looking to experience the electric atmosphere at Soldier Field.
• Weather: Expect typical early September Chicago weather—potentially overcast with temperatures in the mid-60s, a slight chance of rain, and winds around 10-15 mph. Dress for a chilly lakeside evening

The Stakes: A New Era for Both Teams

This game marks the start of a pivotal 2025 season for both the Vikings and Bears, each led by young quarterbacks with something to prove. For the Vikings, it’s the dawn of the J.J. McCarthy era. The 2024 No. 10 overall pick, a Chicago native, will make his first regular-season start in his hometown, adding a personal layer of intensity to the matchup. Under head coach Kevin O’Connell, Minnesota is looking to build on a strong 2024 campaign that saw them secure a playoff berth, thanks to the dynamic play of stars like Justin Jefferson and a retooled offensive line.

The Bears, meanwhile, are ushering in a new chapter with head coach Ben Johnson, the former Lions offensive coordinator who’s been tasked with unlocking the potential of 2024 No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams. After a disappointing 5-12 season in 2024, marred by a devastating Week 8 loss to the Commanders on a Hail Mary, Chicago is hungry for redemption. With a bolstered offense and a defense looking to make a statement, the Bears aim to prove they’re ready to compete in a stacked NFC North.

This Monday Night Football opener is more than just a game—it’s a tone-setter for the season. The Vikings have dominated recent matchups, winning four of the last five against Chicago, including a 30-12 rout in Week 15 of 2024. But with both teams sporting new looks and high aspirations, expect a fierce battle in this division rivalry.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. J.J. McCarthy vs. Caleb Williams: The Future of the NFC North

The spotlight will be on the quarterback duel between J.J. McCarthy and Caleb Williams, two of the NFL’s brightest young stars. McCarthy, fresh off a stellar college career at Michigan, brings poise, accuracy, and a knack for big plays. His ability to connect with elite receiver Justin Jefferson (1,533 yards, 10 TDs in 2024) will be critical against a Bears secondary led by Kevin Byard and Jaylon Johnson. McCarthy’s familiarity with Soldier Field, having grown up in the Chicago area, could give him an edge, but he’ll face pressure from a Bears defensive front eager to disrupt his rhythm.

Caleb Williams, on the other hand, is looking to build on a rookie season where he threw for 3,541 yards, 20 touchdowns, and just six interceptions, showcasing his dual-threat ability with 489 rushing yards. His connection with D.J. Moore (966 yards, 6 TDs in 2024) and rookie Rome Odunze (585 yards, 3 TDs) gives Chicago a potent passing attack. However, Williams will need to navigate a Vikings defense anchored by Andrew Van Ginkel (9 sacks, 2 INTs in 2024) and Jonathan Greenard (10 sacks). This matchup will test Williams’ ability to handle pressure and avoid the costly mistakes that plagued Chicago in 2024.

2. Vikings’ Offensive Line vs. Bears’ Defensive Front

Minnesota’s offensive line, bolstered by offseason additions like Ryan Kelly, Will Fries, and rookie Donovan Jackson, will face a stern test against Chicago’s aggressive front seven. Linebacker T.J. Edwards (103 tackles, 8 TFL in 2024) and defensive end Montez Sweat will look to exploit any weaknesses, especially with Fries recovering from a 2024 leg injury and Christian Darrisaw working back from a knee issue. The Vikings’ ability to protect McCarthy and open lanes for running back Aaron Jones (1,138 rushing yards, 5 TDs in 2024) will be crucial.

Chicago’s defense, while talented, struggled with consistency last season, notably failing to score in the first half of their final three games. Interim coach Thomas Brown emphasized better play-calling and execution, and new coordinator strategies under Ben Johnson could make this unit more unpredictable. If the Bears can generate pressure and force McCarthy into mistakes, they could swing the game in their favor.

3. Justin Jefferson vs. Bears’ Secondary

No preview of a Vikings game is complete without mentioning Justin Jefferson, the NFL’s premier wide receiver. With 103 catches for 1,533 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2024, Jefferson is a game-changer. His matchup against Bears cornerback Jaylon Johnson, one of the league’s top cover men, will be must-watch TV. Johnson’s physicality and ball skills will be tested by Jefferson’s route-running and explosive playmaking. If Chicago doubles Jefferson, it could open opportunities for Jordan Addison (875 yards, 9 TDs in 2024), making this a chess match for the Bears’ defensive backs.

4. Bears’ Run Game vs. Vikings’ Run Defense

Chicago’s running back D’Andre Swift (959 yards, 6 TDs in 2024) will look to exploit a Vikings run defense that showed vulnerabilities last season. Swift’s elusiveness and receiving ability (386 yards on 42 catches) make him a dual-threat weapon, but Minnesota’s linebackers, led by Ivan Pace Jr., and defensive tackles like Javon Hargrave will aim to clog running lanes. If the Bears can establish the run early, it could open up play-action opportunities for Williams. Conversely, if Minnesota shuts down Swift, Chicago’s offense may struggle to find balance.

Team Breakdown: Vikings

The Vikings enter 2025 with high expectations after a surprising 2024 season that saw them go 8-2 in their final 10 games and clinch a playoff spot. Kevin O’Connell’s innovative play-calling and a stout defense under Brian Flores make Minnesota a well-rounded team. Offensively, J.J. McCarthy steps into a favorable situation with weapons like Jefferson, Addison, and Aaron Jones. The addition of defensive lineman Derrick Harmon and edge rusher Jalon Walker in the 2025 draft bolsters an already formidable front, with Byron Murphy Jr. (6 INTs in 2024) leading a ball-hawking secondary.

However, the Vikings face challenges. Their early-season schedule is brutal, with international games in Weeks 4 and 5 (Pittsburgh in Dublin, Cleveland in London) and a Week 6 bye that could disrupt momentum. McCarthy’s inexperience could also be a factor against a Bears team desperate to make a statement at home.

Team Breakdown: Bears

The Bears are looking to turn the page on a frustrating 2024 season that ended with a 5-12 record and a nine-game losing streak after a crushing loss to the Commanders. New head coach Ben Johnson, known for his creative offensive schemes, brings fresh energy to a roster loaded with potential. Caleb Williams’ dual-threat ability, combined with a receiving corps of D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and Keenan Allen, gives Chicago a dynamic passing game. D’Andre Swift anchors the run game, while the offensive line, despite injuries to Braxton Jones and Ryan Bates, has been reinforced with rookie Ozzy Trapilo.

Defensively, the Bears need to address their first-half scoring woes from 2024, where they were shut out in the opening halves of their final three games. T.J. Edwards and Kevin Byard provide leadership, but the unit must generate more consistent pressure and avoid the costly penalties that derailed them last season, such as the ineligible receiver call that erased a touchdown against Minnesota.

Why This Game Matters

This Week 1 clash is about more than just bragging rights in the NFC North—it’s a chance for both teams to set the tone for 2025. For the Vikings, a win on the road against a division rival would signal they’re ready to contend for the NFC North crown, especially with tough matchups against the Falcons, Bengals, and Steelers looming. For the Bears, a victory would validate their offseason moves and give Ben Johnson a signature win in his head coaching debut. With both fanbases buzzing, the atmosphere at Soldier Field will be electric, especially under the Monday night lights.

The historical context adds intrigue. Minnesota has owned this rivalry recently, outscoring Chicago 117-87 over their last five meetings. However, the Bears’ home-field advantage and a fresh coaching staff could make this a closer contest than recent years. Expect both teams to leave it all on the field in this primetime opener.

Predictions and Betting Odds

The Vikings are listed as 3.5-point favorites, with an over/under of 43 points, according to FanDuel. Minnesota’s recent dominance and offensive firepower give them a slight edge, but the Bears’ home-field advantage and desperation to avoid another slow start could keep this game tight. The Vikings’ ability to protect McCarthy and exploit Chicago’s secondary with Jefferson will likely be the difference-maker.

Prediction: Vikings 27, Bears 20. Expect a high-energy game with big plays from both quarterbacks, but Minnesota’s experience and defensive depth should secure a hard-fought road win.

How to Watch and Engage

Fans can catch the game on ESPN or ABC, with streaming options on NFL+, the ESPN app, or Fubo (free trial available). For those in the Chicago area, WFLD (Channel 32) will broadcast the game, while Minnesota fans can tune into KMSP-TV (Channel 32). Radio listeners can follow along on KFAN for Vikings coverage or SiriusXM for Bears fans.

For tickets, StubHub has options for fans wanting to experience the game live at Soldier Field. Be sure to arrive early to soak in the tailgate atmosphere and the buzz of a primetime NFC North showdown.

The Vikings vs. Bears on September 8, 2025, is more than just a Week 1 game—it’s a clash of young quarterbacks, new coaches, and fierce division rivals. J.J. McCarthy’s homecoming and Caleb Williams’ quest for redemption will headline a game filled with drama, big plays, and intense moments. Whether you’re a Vikings fan dreaming of a deep playoff run or a Bears fan hoping for a breakout season, this Monday night opener is a must-watch.

Who do you think will steal the show—McCarthy’s poise, Williams’ flair, or a game-changing play from Jefferson or Moore? Drop your predictions in the comments and join the conversation! Let’s kick off the 2025 NFL season with a bang!