Chicago Bears · Franchise era 4 of 7
The 1985 Bears: the Chicago Bears story
Franchise era
1982—1992
The 1985 Bears
Chicago Bears
The story in one sentence
Mike Ditka and Buddy Ryan assembled a defense of historic speed and intimidation that dominated the 1985 postseason and remained dangerous for years.
Defense, personality and one overwhelming champion
Walter Payton, Mike Singletary and Richard Dent gave the era its recognizable core.
Its ending created the conditions for between great defenses.
Timeline
How it unfolded
Before 1982
What came before
Butkus and Sayers defined their positions before Payton became the franchise's relentless offensive center through years of rebuilding.
1984-12-30
Divisional Round: Chicago Bears vs Washington
1986-01-12
Conference Championship: Los Angeles Rams vs Chicago Bears
1986-01-26
Super Bowl: Chicago Bears vs New England Patriots
After 1992
What came next
Chicago searched for offensive stability while gradually assembling the line and linebackers that would power its next contender.
The core