Week 17 of the NFL season has arrived, and for the Seattle Seahawks, every moment counts as they push for the playoffs. Currently sitting at 8-7 and trailing the Los Angeles Rams, the Seahawks face off against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field on Thursday night. Each game is pivotal, and Seattle knows it must emerge victorious to keep its slim postseason hopes alive.
The Seahawks’ rollercoaster 2024 season has been characterized by both triumphs and setbacks. After starting strong with three consecutive wins, they hit rough waters with three losses, before bouncing back with four victories. Their upset losses and comebacks have made it clear: this is not just another game—it’s about survival and determination. Quarterback Geno Smith has thrown for 3,937 yards with 17 touchdowns but also has 15 interceptions this season. Yet, it’s his poise and leadership on the field the team is relying on to guide them through this tense stretch.
“We’ve got to take it one game at a time,” Smith said prior to the matchup. “This week is all about the Bears. We can’t afford to look past anyone.”
Meanwhile, the Bears are determined to play spoiler. Chicago started the season strong, but after winning four of their first six games, they have fallen on hard times, now missing the playoffs with nine straight losses. With rookie quarterback Caleb Williams throwing for 3,271 yards, 19 touchdowns, and five interceptions, the Bears are still trying to find their footing. Williams has shown flashes of brilliance but has not consistently delivered elite performances.
With both teams facing contrasting motivations, the stakes are high. A win for the Seahawks could solidify their chances to reclaim the division lead, especially with the Rams set to play Arizona later this week. But should Seattle falter, it could mean the end of their playoff aspirations.
For Seattle to secure the win, they must capitalize on the Bears’ defensive struggles. Chicago has allowed opponents to average 359.4 total yards per game this season, which does not bode well against Seattle's high-octane offense. Winning this matchup can send Seattle on the path to the postseason, but it won't come easy.
Kickoff for the Seahawks vs. Bears game is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET, with live streaming available exclusively through Amazon Prime Video. Fans across the U.S. and Canada will be tuning in to witness one of the season’s most thrilling matchups.
Looking at the playoff picture, the Seahawks remain on the cusp of postseason glory. If they can secure the win, along with favorable outcomes from other games, they could set up for a dramatic final week against the Rams. The coaches have emphasized the importance of staying focused and not letting external pressure affect their performance on the field.
The atmosphere at Soldier Field is expected to be electric, with Seahawks fans traveling to support their team and Bears fans hoping for one last hurrah amid their struggling season. The Bears may not be competing for the playoffs, but their young players are eager to prove they can compete at the highest level.
Every game is pivotal as players look to end their seasons strong and carry their momentum forward. For the Bears, this game can serve as motivation, giving them experience to build on for next season. Meanwhile, for the Seahawks, anything less than victory will spell doom for their playoff ambitions.
With multiple narratives intertwining, Week 17 promises excitement and intensity. The stage is set, the players are ready, and one question remains: can Seattle overcome Chicago and keep their playoff dreams alive, or will the Bears remain resilient and capture their first victory since early season?
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the action kicks off. Playoff dreams are at stake and each team will leave everything they have on the field.
