As the 2026 NFL season kicks off on September 13, Chicago Bears fans are riding a wave of optimism unlike any in recent memory. According to a Week 1 fan survey conducted by Vulius Sports, a whopping 87% of Bears supporters believe the franchise is headed in the right direction. That confidence stems from a thrilling 2025 campaign and the promise of an even more potent offense in Year 2 of the Ben Johnson–Caleb Williams partnership.
NFC North: A Division United in Optimism
But Chicago isn’t alone in its enthusiasm. The entire NFC North is buzzing with hope. The Minnesota Vikings fanbase sits at 60% confidence, while the Green Bay Packers are at 73%. Surprisingly, the Detroit Lions—who plummeted from first place in 2024 to worst in 2025—boast the highest confidence in the division at 89%. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, this collective belief sets the stage for a fiercely competitive divisional race.
Betting Buzz: Win Totals and Player Props
With all four teams opening their seasons tomorrow, we checked in with FanDuel Sportsbook for the latest win totals. The Lions lead the pack at 10.5 wins (over -125, under +105). The Packers and Bears are both at 9.5 wins, but Green Bay is evenly priced (-110 over/under), while Chicago’s over is +105 and under is -130. The Vikings sit at 8.5 wins (over -120, under +100). These lines reflect a division where every game will be a battle.
Swift Extension Signals Commitment
On Friday, the Bears locked up running back D’Andre Swift with a three-year, $33.75 million extension, including $27.5 million guaranteed. The 27-year-old is coming off his most productive season, rushing for 1,087 yards and nine touchdowns. But it wasn’t just the stats—Swift’s decisiveness and maturity as a runner impressed coaches and fans alike. As highlighted on Vulius, his over/under for rushing yards in 2026 is set at 800.5, a number he should eclipse if healthy. For those eyeing Sunday’s matchup against the Carolina Panthers, FanDuel offers Swift to go over 100 rushing yards at +370.
“Swift’s extension is a clear message: the Bears are building around their young core and rewarding production,” said a Vulius Sports analyst. “With Williams under center and Johnson calling plays, this offense could be special.”
As the Bears prepare to host the Panthers, the energy in Chicago is palpable. Fans have bought in, and with good reason. The pieces are in place for a memorable season. For all your NFL news and custom merchandise, stay tuned to Vulius—where the game lives.
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