The Detroit Lions and the Chicago Bears have been battling it out on the football field for decades. Their rivalry is one of the oldest and most storied in the NFL. Over the years, both teams have had their share of victories and defeats. In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of the Detroit Lions vs Bears records and what has made this rivalry so intense.
When these two teams meet on the field, there is always a lot at stake. Not only do they compete for bragging rights, but each game also has playoff implications. The Lions and Bears have met over 180 times, with the Bears leading the series with a record of 101-74-5. But, the Lions have been making strides in recent years and have narrowed the gap in the series. Let's take a closer look at some of their most memorable matchups.
The Early Years
The Lions and Bears first met on November 28, 1930. The Bears won that game 7-6, and the rivalry was born. In their early years, the Bears dominated the series, winning the first 16 games they played against the Lions. It wasn't until 1935 that the Lions finally broke through and beat the Bears for the first time.
Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, the Bears continued to dominate the series, winning eight NFL championships during that time. The Lions struggled to keep up, but they did manage to win a championship of their own in 1957. It wasn't until the 1960s that the Lions started to turn things around against the Bears.
The 1960s and 1970s
The 1960s and 1970s were a time of transition for both teams. The Bears had some success early in the decade, winning the NFL championship in 1963. But, they struggled in the latter part of the decade, finishing with losing records in six of the last eight seasons. The Lions, on the other hand, were on the rise. They won the NFL championship in 1957 and made it to the playoffs five times in the 1960s.
During this time, the Lions and Bears had some memorable matchups. One of the most famous games was the 1962 Thanksgiving Day game, which the Lions won 26-14. This game was notable because it was the first nationally televised Thanksgiving Day game and helped establish the tradition of Thanksgiving Day football.
The 1980s and 1990s
The 1980s and 1990s were a mixed bag for both teams. The Bears won their only Super Bowl in 1985, but they struggled to maintain that success in the years that followed. The Lions made it to the playoffs four times in the 1990s, but they never advanced past the divisional round.
During this time, the Lions and Bears continued to play each other tough. One of the most memorable games was the 1991 season opener, which the Lions won 21-10. This game was notable because it was Barry Sanders' first NFL game, and he rushed for 71 yards and a touchdown.
The 2000s to Present
In the 2000s, the Bears had some success, making it to the Super Bowl in 2006, but they struggled in the years that followed. The Lions, on the other hand, had a rough stretch in the 2000s, going 0-16 in 2008. But, they have been making strides in recent years, making the playoffs in 2011 and 2014.
Despite their recent struggles, the Lions and Bears continue to play each other tough. One of the most memorable games in recent years was the 2013 season opener, which the Lions won 34-24. This game was notable because Reggie Bush had a huge game, rushing for 90 yards and catching a touchdown pass.
The Future of the Rivalry
The Detroit Lions vs Bears records may be lopsided in the Bears' favor, but the Lions have been making strides in recent years. With talented players like Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson, the Lions have the potential to turn the tide in this rivalry. Only time will tell what the future holds for these two teams, but one thing is certain: when the Lions and Bears meet on the field, it's always an intense battle.
In conclusion,
The Detroit Lions vs Bears records are a testament to the long-standing rivalry between these two teams. While the Bears have had the upper hand in the series, the Lions have been making strides in recent years. Regardless of their records, each game is always intense and hard-fought, and that's what makes this rivalry so special. Whether you're a Lions fan or a Bears fan, there's nothing quite like a matchup between these two teams.
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