CHICAGO — Soldier Field is set to come alive Saturday night as throngs of fans gather to support the Bears in their much-anticipated face-off against the Green Bay Packers. It’s a momentous occasion as the Bears return to the playoffs, marking their first appearance in five years.
This season has been nothing short of a fairy tale under the leadership of head coach Ben Johnson, who has guided the team to this pivotal moment. As excitement builds for the game, the city is buzzing with anticipation.
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On Friday morning, the Bears’ mascot, Staley da Bear, along with the lively drumline known as the Monster Squad, set the tone for the weekend’s festivities. They embarked on a “Pop-Up City Tour,” energizing fans across the city and spreading playoff fever wherever they went.
Their spirited day kicked off at Union Station, where they were greeted with enthusiasm. Fans flocked to the Grand Hall to snap photos and soak in the atmosphere, enhanced by a new light display showcasing the year’s rallying cry: “Good. Better. Best.” This motto, introduced by Coach Johnson, has become a mantra for the team and its supporters.
With the city rallying behind them, the Bears are poised to make their playoff comeback a memorable chapter in their storied history.
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Their day began at Union Station. Fans taking photos in the Grand Hall – with the new light display “Good. Better. Best” – the team’s catch phrase this year, coined by Bears head coach Ben Johnson.
Even one woman was seen wearing a forbidden Packers hat.
Then, the hype squad headed to the North Side, visiting DePaul University in Lincoln Park.
Staley da Bear busted a move with the Blue Demons’ mascot DIBS, making lots of noise in the Student Center.
Then, to the West Side the crew went. The bus pulled up to a Dunkin Donuts near the United Center visiting with folks grabbing their morning joe.
“I was not expecting it,” Maze Jackson said. “I came in to get a cup of coffee and the bears are here. I’m like super fired up and ready to rock ‘n’ roll.”
Like coffee, this crew was a shot of caffeine to the veins.
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“Man, I’m fired up,” Jackson said. “It’s playoff time. Bears has been so long since we’ve been at the playoffs so I’m fired up.”
Some lucky customers even got their own personalized “Da Donut.”
Staley visited with fans and his antics made some gals blush.
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