Preparing for Packers, Papa Bear Plays Psychologist

Nov. 11, 1963 – George Halas jumps into his “Bears as underdogs” routine six days before his team is set to meet the Packers to decide first place in the Western Conference. “The Packers have beaten us four out of our last five games. They have won two championships,” Halas says to those attending Chicago’s American Quarterback luncheon. “Psychologically they will be up. They will be primed emotionally in view of our 10-3 upset over them this season. They figure that must have been a mistake and they’ll be out to prove it.” Chicago (8-1) prevails 26-7 over Green Bay (8-1) in the rematch, and the Bears go on to win the NFL championship.