The Bears’ irrelevance does not equal less eyes or less intrigue. While they’re eliminated from playoff contention, there was virtually no chance the NFL would flex out a home Sunday night matchup with the Chiefs.
Too many people are still invested in the adequate Bears and their foibles to pass up such a ratings opportunity. Too many would desire an early, well-wrapped holidays gift in the form of a (very hopeful) surprise upset of a Super Bowl contender. Look no further than any primetime ratings report for the Bears when they struggle to win five games, at best.