Bears Say Playoff Bid Trumps Location Vs Vikings
LAKE FOREST, Ill. (AP) -- The Chicago Bears would like to think they have an edge over the Minnesota Vikings if their Monday night game is played outdoors.
The NFL is reviewing the Vikings' plan to play the game at the University of Minnesota's outdoor stadium because repairs to the snow-damaged roof of the Metrodome won't be done in time.
The Bears beat the Vikings 27-13 on Nov. 13 and a win in the rematch could give them the NFC North title.
The Bears struggled against New England in a snowstorm Sunday at Soldier Field, but like their chances with their first playoff berth since 2006 on the line.
The Bears own a 16-9 record in outdoor cold weather games in December and January under coach Lovie Smith and have won 10 straight outdoors in those conditions against dome or warm-weather teams.
Forecasts for Monday night in Minneapolis call for single-digit temperatures and sub-zero wind chills.
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