One of the most common questions fans ask heading into playoff weekend is simple: can I watch this game for free?
For the Chicago Bears vs Green Bay Packers Wild Card matchup, the short answer is yes, many viewers in the U.S. can — and below is everything you need to know.

This historic rivalry headlines Saturday night of the NFL Wild Card, with the Chicago Bears hosting the Green Bay Packers in a single-elimination NFC playoff game. Lose, and the season ends immediately.

Chicago Bears vs Green Bay Packers
Watch Live Chicago Bears vs Green Bay Packers for Free

Game Information (Projected, U.S. Time)

  • Date: Saturday, January 10, 2026

  • Kickoff: ~7:00 PM ET (6:00 PM CT / 4:00 PM PT)

  • Stadium: Soldier Field

  • Conference: NFC Wild Card

  • Format: Single elimination

This game is expected to occupy the Saturday night prime-time slot, traditionally reserved for the most high-profile Wild Card matchup.

Read more:

- NFL Wild Card Weekend 2026: Full Schedule, Matchups, Times, and How to Watch

- NFL Playoffs 2026 Viewing Guide: Best Games, Busiest Days, and What Matters Most

- Can You Watch the NFL Playoffs 2026 for Free? and How to Watch Legally?

- Super Bowl 2026: Time, Date, Location, Teams, Tickets, TV Channels and Streaming Options to Watch Live

- Which Teams Are in the 2026 NFL Playoffs: Full List, Seeds, and Bracket Breakdown

Can You Watch Bears vs Packers for Free? United States: Yes, in most areas

Because this game is expected to air on NBC, many fans in the U.S. can watch completely free using:

  • Over-the-air antenna (local NBC affiliate)

  • No cable subscription required

  • No streaming login needed

If you have a basic HD antenna and live within range of an NBC station, this is the easiest and most reliable free option.

Streaming Options (U.S.)

If you prefer to stream, here are your choices:

Paid Streaming (Subscription Required)

  • Peacock – https://www.peacocktv.com

  • YouTube TV

  • Hulu + Live TV

  • FuboTV

  • Sling TV (select packages)

Most of these services include free trials from time to time, which some viewers use to watch playoff games legally at no cost.

Watching in Canada: Is It Free?

Canada: Usually not free

Canadian viewers typically cannot watch this game for free over the air.

TV Options

  • TSN or CTV (final assignment confirmed closer to kickoff)

Streaming

In most cases, a cable subscription or paid streaming service is required in Canada.

Worldwide Viewing Options

NFL Game Pass International

https://www.nflgamepass.com

For viewers outside the U.S. and Canada, NFL Game Pass International is the most reliable option.

Includes:

  • Live broadcast of Texans vs Steelers

  • Full replays and condensed games

  • No blackout restrictions outside North America

Subscription required, though playoff-only packages are often available.

Why This Game Is Must-Watch

Bears vs Packers is the oldest rivalry in NFL history, and playoff meetings between these teams are rare and intense. Add prime-time television, January weather, and elimination stakes, and the atmosphere becomes electric.

Chicago enters likely as a division champion, earning home field and the advantage of familiar cold-weather conditions. Green Bay arrives as a Wild Card team, comfortable on the road and well-versed in postseason pressure.

This is not just a football game. It is tradition under stress.

Bears’ Path to Victory

  • Use the environment: Cold temperatures, wind, and grass footing at Soldier Field matter.

  • Control the pace: Sustained drives limit Green Bay’s offensive rhythm.

  • Stay disciplined: Penalties and turnovers are amplified in rivalry playoff games.

Chicago wants a physical, emotional contest where crowd noise and weather work in its favor.

Packers’ Path to Victory

  • Lean on experience: Green Bay has been here before.

  • Protect the football: Quieting the crowd starts with mistake-free possessions.

  • Win situational football: Third downs, red zone trips, and clock management are critical.

The Packers are comfortable winning ugly, especially on the road.

What to Watch During the Game

  • Opening drives: Early success can swing momentum quickly.

  • Weather impact: Wind affects passing and kicking more than cold alone.

  • Special teams: Field position often decides winter playoff games.

  • Late-game decisions: One fourth-down call can define a season.

Final Take

If you are in the U.S., yes — you can likely watch Bears vs Packers for free with an antenna on NBC. Beyond access, this game delivers everything fans want from playoff football: history, pressure, weather, and zero margin for error.

Saturday night at Soldier Field will not be subtle. Only one team moves on.