Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions Face 2025 NFL Reckoning Amid Youth Movement, Coaching Departures

The 2025 college football season brings significant anticipation and changes for several programs. The University of South Dakota Coyotes, coming off an 11-win season and a national semifinal appearance, enter 2025 as a top-five FCS team under newly promoted head coach Travis Johansen, with key players like quarterback Aidan Bouman and running back Charles Pierre Jr. returning. Illinois football aims to break its historical pattern of post-success decline, entering the season with high expectations ranked No. 4 in the Big Ten media preseason poll, hoping to build sustained momentum after previous letdowns following strong campaigns. In the NFL, the Chicago Bears are poised for a breakout season under coach Ben Johnson, with quarterback Justin Fields expected to make a significant leap, supported by a dynamic offense that led the league in scoring last year. Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions face challenges following the loss of offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to the Bears but remain motivated to contend, with running back David Montgomery declaring 2025 the 'year of the reckoning' to push for a Super Bowl. The Green Bay Packers also face a pivotal season determining their future trajectory, with new team president Ed Policy overseeing decisions on head coach Matt LaFleur and quarterback Jordan Love as they seek to return to championship contention after recent playoff struggles.