The Arizona Cardinals and Chicago Bears share one of the oldest and most storied rivalries in the National Football League. Dating back to the league’s inception in 1920, these two franchises have faced off against each other for over a century, creating a rich tapestry of memorable moments, intense competition, and football history.
Arizona Cardinals vs Chicago Bears Tickets
The Arizona Cardinals are set to host the Chicago Bears in an exciting NFL matchup on Sunday, November 3, 2024, at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:05 PM local time.
Ticket Information
Tickets for this game are currently on sale and can be purchased through the following channels:
- Official Arizona Cardinals website: www.azcardinals.com/tickets
- Ticketmaster: The NFL’s official ticketing partner
- NFL Ticket Exchange: Ticketmaster’s verified resale marketplace
Pricing
Ticket prices vary depending on seating location:
- Starting price: Approximately $132
- Prices may fluctuate based on demand as the game date approaches
Venue Details
State Farm Stadium
1 Cardinals Drive
Glendale, AZ 85305 This state-of-the-art facility features a retractable roof and a natural grass field.
Important Information
- Digital Ticketing: All tickets and parking passes are 100% digital. The Cardinals mobile app is the easiest way to access and manage your tickets.
- Parking: Pre-sold permits and single-game parking are available. Sportsman’s Park lots open four hours prior to kickoff.
- Tailgating: Allowed in designated areas for ticket holders only. The Great Lawn is a popular tailgating spot.
- Roof Status: The position of the retractable roof will be determined on game day. Call the Cardinals Roof Hotline at 623-433-7663 for updates.
Game Significance
This matchup continues the historic rivalry between two of the NFL’s oldest franchises. While no longer in the same division, games between the Cardinals and Bears always carry special significance due to their shared history in Chicago. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness an exciting chapter in this long-standing NFL rivalry. Secure your tickets early to be part of the action at State Farm Stadium on November 3, 2024!
Origins of the Rivalry
The Early Days
The rivalry between the Cardinals and Bears began on November 28, 1920, when the then-Racine Cardinals defeated the Decatur Staleys (now the Chicago Bears) 7-6. This game took place just 72 days after the formation of the American Professional Football Association, which would later become the NFL. At the time, both teams were based in Illinois, setting the stage for a fierce in-state rivalry.
Chicago Years
From 1922 to 1959, both teams called Chicago home, intensifying their rivalry. The Cardinals played at Comiskey Park on the city’s South Side, while the Bears made Wrigley Field their home on the North Side. This period saw the rivalry reach its peak, with the teams facing each other twice a season and competing for the hearts of Chicago football fans.
Team Histories
Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals franchise, established in 1898, is the oldest continuously run professional football team in the United States. Originally founded as the Morgan Athletic Club in Chicago, the team has undergone several name changes and relocations:
- Chicago Cardinals (1922-1959)
- St. Louis Cardinals (1960-1987)
- Phoenix Cardinals (1988-1993)
- Arizona Cardinals (1994-present)
The Cardinals currently play their home games at State Farm Stadium: State Farm Stadium
1 Cardinals Drive
Glendale, AZ 85305 For more information, visit the official Arizona Cardinals website: www.azcardinals.com
Chicago Bears
The Bears, founded in 1920 as the Decatur Staleys, moved to Chicago in 1921 and adopted their current name in 1922. They have remained in Chicago throughout their entire history, making them one of the most iconic franchises in the NFL. The Bears play their home games at Soldier Field: Soldier Field
1410 S Museum Campus Drive
Chicago, IL 60605 For more information, visit the official Chicago Bears website: www.chicagobears.com
Head-to-Head Record
As of the 2023 season, the Bears hold a significant lead in the all-time series against the Cardinals. The current record stands at:
- Chicago Bears: 60 wins
- Arizona Cardinals: 29 wins
- Ties: 6
This lopsided record is largely due to the Bears’ dominance during the early years of the rivalry when both teams were based in Chicago.
Memorable Games and Moments
The 1925 Game: Red Grange’s Debut
On November 26, 1925, more than 36,000 fans packed Wrigley Field to witness the professional debut of Harold “Red” Grange, who had signed with the Bears just 24 hours after his final college game at the University of Illinois. The highly anticipated matchup ended in a 0-0 tie, with Cardinals player Paddy Driscoll consistently punting the ball away from Grange to limit his impact.
The 1947 NFL Championship
The 1947 NFL Championship game saw the Chicago Cardinals defeat the Philadelphia Eagles 28-21 at Comiskey Park. This remains the Cardinals’ most recent NFL championship, highlighting the historical significance of the franchise despite their long championship drought.
The Dennis Green Game (2006)
One of the most memorable games in recent history took place on October 16, 2006, when the Bears staged an improbable comeback against the Cardinals on Monday Night Football. Trailing 23-3 in the third quarter, the Bears scored 21 unanswered points in the final period to win 24-23. This game is famous for Cardinals coach Dennis Green’s post-game rant, where he exclaimed, “The Bears are who we thought they were, and we let ’em off the hook!”
Key Players in the Rivalry
Arizona Cardinals
- Larry Fitzgerald: One of the greatest receivers in NFL history, Fitzgerald spent his entire 17-year career with the Cardinals and faced the Bears multiple times.
- Pat Tillman: A safety who played for the Cardinals from 1998-2001 before leaving the NFL to join the U.S. Army Rangers.
- Kurt Warner: Led the Cardinals to their only Super Bowl appearance in 2009 during his tenure with the team from 2005-2009.
Chicago Bears
- Walter Payton: Known as “Sweetness,” Payton is considered one of the greatest running backs in NFL history and played his entire career with the Bears.
- Dick Butkus: A legendary linebacker who terrorized opponents during his nine-year career with the Bears.
- Gale Sayers: Known as the “Kansas Comet,” Sayers was a dynamic running back and return specialist for the Bears in the 1960s.
Impact of Relocation on the Rivalry
The Cardinals’ move to St. Louis in 1960 and subsequently to Arizona in 1988 significantly impacted the frequency and intensity of the rivalry. No longer division rivals, the teams now face each other less frequently, typically once every three years as part of the NFL’s scheduling rotation.
Recent Matchups
In recent years, the Cardinals-Bears matchups have been less frequent but still meaningful. Some notable recent games include:
- December 24, 2023: The Bears defeated the Cardinals 27-16 at Soldier Field.
- December 5, 2021: The Cardinals won 33-22 in Chicago, with Kyler Murray throwing for two touchdowns and running for two more.
- September 23, 2018: The Bears won a defensive battle 16-14 in Arizona, with Khalil Mack leading a strong defensive performance.
Cultural Impact
Despite the reduced frequency of their matchups, the Cardinals-Bears rivalry holds a special place in NFL lore. It represents the league’s roots and the enduring nature of football in America. The rivalry has been featured in various NFL documentaries and historical retrospectives, serving as a reminder of the league’s humble beginnings and its growth into a national phenomenon.
Fan Experience
For fans of both teams, the Cardinals-Bears matchup often brings a sense of nostalgia and history. Bears fans, in particular, often reminisce about the days when the “Monsters of the Midway” dominated their crosstown rivals. Cardinals fans, meanwhile, look to these games as an opportunity to prove themselves against one of the NFL’s most storied franchises.
When the teams meet, whether in Arizona or Chicago, fans can expect a blend of modern NFL excitement and historical significance. The stadiums often feature displays and tributes to the long-standing rivalry, giving newer fans a glimpse into the rich history of both franchises.
Tactical Considerations
The Cardinals-Bears matchups often present interesting tactical challenges for both teams. The Bears, traditionally known for their strong defense and running game, have had to adapt to more modern offensive schemes in recent years.
The Cardinals, on the other hand, have frequently featured high-powered offenses, particularly during the Bruce Arians era and with quarterbacks like Carson Palmer and Kyler Murray. These contrasting styles often lead to intriguing battles on the field. The Bears’ defensive prowess is tested against the Cardinals’ offensive creativity, while the Cardinals’ defense must stand firm against the Bears’ physical running game.
Future of the Rivalry
As both the Cardinals and Bears continue to evolve as franchises, the future of their rivalry remains intriguing. While they may not face each other as frequently as they did in the past, each matchup carries the weight of history and the potential for new memorable moments.
Potential Playoff Matchups
Although rare, there’s always the possibility of a playoff matchup between these two teams. Such a game would undoubtedly rekindle the intensity of the rivalry and create a new chapter in their shared history.
Building New Traditions
As newer generations of fans become engaged with these teams, there’s an opportunity to build new traditions around their matchups. This could include special events, themed games, or collaborative community initiatives when they face each other.
Impact on the NFL
The Cardinals-Bears rivalry serves as a reminder of the NFL’s roots and its growth over the past century. It showcases how the league has evolved from a regional sport to a national passion, while still maintaining connections to its history.
Preserving League History
The NFL often highlights this rivalry as part of its efforts to preserve and celebrate league history. Games between these teams are opportunities for the league to educate newer fans about the rich traditions of professional football in America.
Influence on Other Rivalries
The longevity and historical significance of the Cardinals-Bears rivalry have influenced how other NFL rivalries are viewed and celebrated. It sets a standard for what it means to have a truly historic rivalry in professional football.
In Short
The Arizona Cardinals vs Chicago Bears rivalry stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of professional football in America. From its origins in the early days of the NFL to its current status as a historic matchup, this rivalry encapsulates over a century of football history.
While the frequency of their meetings has decreased due to conference realignment and the Cardinals’ relocations, each game between these teams carries the weight of their shared past. It’s a rivalry that reminds fans of the NFL’s humble beginnings and its growth into America’s most popular sport.
As both franchises continue to evolve and seek success in the modern NFL, their matchups will always hold a special place in the hearts of football fans. Whether it’s a regular-season game or a potential playoff encounter, Cardinals vs Bears games are more than just another mark on the schedule – they’re a celebration of football history and a glimpse into the sport’s future.
For fans of both teams and football enthusiasts in general, the next Cardinals-Bears game is not just a contest between two teams, but a continuation of one of the oldest stories in professional sports. It’s a reminder that while players, coaches, and even cities may change, the spirit of competition and the love of the game remain constant.
As we look forward to future matchups between these historic franchises, we can appreciate the rich tapestry of moments, players, and games that have defined this rivalry. The Arizona Cardinals and Chicago Bears may no longer be crosstown rivals, but their shared history ensures that every meeting is a special event in the NFL calendar.
