The Bears Wire Podcast

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri get ready for the 2024 NFL Draft with the unveiling of their fourth annual Bears Wire Draft Bingo card. The hosts also tackle a six-pack of questions surrounding all things Bears and the NFL. Topics include Caleb Williams' unconventional style, NFL rule changes, Justin Fields' chances to start in Pittsburgh and more! The episode concludes with a square by square breakdown of this year's bingo card. Can the show hit bingo for a fourth consecutive year?

In their latest offseason episode, hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri dive into the polarizing trade of Justin Fields to the Steelers, questioning if the Bears truly “did right” by their former quarterback. They also explore Chicago's likely pivot to Caleb Williams, analyzing the team's readiness and expectations. Additionally, the hosts discuss the team's key offensive acquisitions like Keenan Allen and DeAndre Swift, weighing their impact on the Bears' future. The episode concludes with insights into the Jaylon Johnson extension. Join us, and don't forget to support us by subscribing and leaving a review! 

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri weigh in on Bears president Kevin Warren's endorsement of QB Justin Fields amidst trade rumors. Topics include the Bears, Caleb Williams and what's to come at the NFL Scouting Combine; what to like about the Shane Waldron hire; and reflections on Devin Hester, Steve McMichael and Julius Peppers entering the NFL Hall of Fame.

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri discuss GM Ryan Poles tethering his own future to coach Matt Eberflus, the team's decision to part ways with Luke Getsy, and the latest surrounding Justin Fields' future. The hosts also hit on potential offensive coordinator candidates, the impact of the Bears' loss in Green Bay, and Poles' comments on star corner Jaylon Johnson.

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri react to the Bears clinching the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 draft (via Carolina) before looking ahead to some of the major decisions facing GM Ryan Poles and the franchise. Topics include Justin Fields' statement performance in what could be his final home game at Soldier Field, and the groundswell of support from fans and teammates to keep him as QB1. The hosts also discuss reports that Matt Eberflus is set to return as head coach in 2024, before previewing Bears-Packers in Week 18 with predictions against the spread. Can the Bears close their season on a high by ending Green Bay's playoff hopes?

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri dive into another late-game Bears collapse, this time against the Browns. They scrutinize the team's alarming trend of squandering double-digit leads in the fourth quarter, and reset their thoughts on the future of both Matt Eberflus and Justin Fields in Chicago. The hosts then turn their attention to a must-win game against the Cardinals with predictions against the spread.

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri dive into the Bears' recent success and what it means for the future of head coach Matt Eberflus. The hosts discuss the national perception that Justin Fields will be on a new team in 2024, and playoffs? For the 2023 Bears? Why it's not as far-fetched as you think. The show ends with a Bears-Browns preview with predictions against the spread.

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri tackle five intriguing questions coming out of the Bears' bye week. Topics include Marvin Harrison Jr. vs. Caleb Williams at No. 1 overall, the Bears' reported interest in Eric Bieniemy, and how long can the Bears stay mathematically alive in the NFC playoff picture? The hosts also break down the Bears-Lions matchup with picks against the spread. Are the Lions ripe for an upset at Soldier Field?

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Dan Benton discuss Tommy DeVito and the Giants defeating Bill Belichick's Patriots. Has DeVito earned the right to continue starting games for the Giants, even when veteran Tyrod Taylor is activated off IR? Other topics include the reported rift between Brian Daboll and Wink Martindale, GM Joe Schoen's comments on Daniel Jones' future with the organization, and Tiki Barber named a semifinalist for the NFL's Hall of Fame Class of 2024. Also, could the Giants come out of their bye week with a legit path to the playoffs?

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri break down the Bears' frustrating loss to the Lions, emphasizing the team's conservative play-calling and Justin Fields' commendable performance despite an apparent lack of confidence from the coaching staff. Was the Bears' meltdown in Detroit another indication that the organization must overhaul the coaching staff this offseason? And what would that mean for Fields' future? Those topics are covered, along with a Thanksgiving-themed 6-pack of questions to get you primed for a long weekend of family, food and football.

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri react to Justin Fields' impending return and look ahead to what could be his final seven games as the Bears' starting quarterback. With the potential No. 1 overall pick in hand, has GM Ryan Poles already made a decision on Fields' future in Chicago? Could Fields still win the job with a torrid finish to the season? The hosts discuss all of that and more while weighing on top 2024 prospects like Caleb Williams and Drake Maye. The show then shifts to a Bears-Lions preview with picks against the spread.

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri discuss the big Montez Sweat extension and what it could mean down the road for a player like Jaylon Johnson. Other topics include the mixed signals around Justin Fields' possible return, and why the Bears falling short in a winnable game in New Orleans is a poor reflection on the team's coaching . The second segment looks ahead to the Thursday Night Football matchup with the Panthers with predictions. Will the Bears help their own cause in the 2024 NFL draft by handing Carolina another loss?

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri react to the Bears' surprising trade for star defensive end Montez Sweat. Were the Bears right to spend such a high draft pick on a player with an expiring contract? The hosts also discuss Jaylon Johnson's future with the team, and search for clues on what is becoming an awkward situation between the team and Justin Fields. Why was the team's QB1 ruled out for Week 9 so early? And why was Sunday Night Football broadcaster Cris Collinsworth talking up Tyson Bagent like he was Joe Montana? All of those topics, including another awkward Matt Eberflus press conference, are covered along with a Bears-Saints preview with predictions.

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri react to Tyson Bagent's first career start and weigh in on the Bagent-vs.-Justin Fields debate. It's apology time for Ryan after he ripped the Bears last week for going with Bagent as the backup quarterback over a veteran who could aid in Justin Fields' development. Other topics include D'Onta Foreman's impact on the running game and the remarkable turnaround of the Bears' defense. In the second segment, the hosts discuss the Bears-Chargers matchup with predictions against the spread and total.

Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri react to Justin Fields' thumb injury and undrafted rookie Tyson Bagent's big opportunity. Other topics include Luke Getsy's hot seat, Cody Whitehair vs. Lucas Patrick at center, and the improved play of the defense in recent weeks. In the second segment, the hosts preview Bears-Raiders in what could be a matchup of rookie quarterbacks. They close the show with some matchup analysis and picks against the spread

In this week's episode of the Bears Wire Podcast, hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri celebrate the Chicago Bears' first victory in nearly a calendar year. They dive into Justin Fields' impressive performance over the past two games. Is the QB's improved play the result of playing weaker competition or signs of real progress? The hosts also get into the surprising trade of Chase Claypool and weigh in on Matt Eberflus' job security after a much-needed win over the Commanders. The show wraps up with a Bears-Vikings preview with picks against the spread and total. Can the Bears capitalize on the struggling Vikings without star WR Justin Jefferson?

In this episode of the Bears Wire Podcast, Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri weigh in on head coach Matt Eberflus and whether the team's Week 4 loss to the Broncos was a fireable offense. The other big topics include Chase Claypool missing in action, Justin Fields' struggles in the fourth quarter and a Bears-Commanders preview for Thursday Night Football with picks against the spread. Will the Bears break their losing streak before it hits 15 games?

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri dive deep into the Chicago Bears' tumultuous season. In this episode, they dissect Justin Fields' candid comments about coaching and his struggles to play his natural game. The hosts discuss the implications of Fields' frustration and the potential for his departure from Chicago if things don't improve in short order. They also cover Ryan Poles' response to that situation and more in what was a wild week at Halas Hall. In the second segment, it's a showdown of two struggling teams as the Bears take on the Broncos. Will this be a get-right game for Fields and the Bears? Ryan and Alyssa give their takes on the game with predictions against the spread.

Join hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri as they dissect the Bears' turbulent start to the season. Lavonte David's biting postgame comments set the stage for a deep dive into the offense's struggles, Luke Getsy's hot seat, and Justin Fields' lack of progress. The hosts also question the state of the defense and how that unit was constructed by GM Ryan Poles. They also preview the Bears' matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs, where they are 12.5-point underdogs. Can the Bears find a way to compete, or will their current losing streak slide to 13 games? Ryan and Alyssa discuss and give their pricks against the spread.

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri dive deep into the aftermath of the Bears' Week 1 loss to the Green Bay Packers. Alyssa doesn't hold back as she shares her frustrations about the team's performance. The hosts explore the challenges that Justin Fields faced on the field, from a shaky offensive line to the Bears' lack of a clear identity on offense. The offensive play calling, Chase Claypool's effort, Matt Eberflus' performance and the Bears' defense are also scrutinized.In the second segment, the hosts preview the upcoming matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Get insights on the spread, total, and the tough road ahead for the Bears as they aim to bounce back!

Welcome to Season 4 of the Bears Wire podcast! Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri kick things off with Tevon Jenkins landing on IR, leaving the left guard position uncertain for the Bears' season opener. Do the Bears have enough in reserve up front to thwart the Packers' dangerous front seven? Also, strong safety Jaquan Brisker is dealing with a soft-tissue injury, adding more uncertainty to the defense. The hosts question the team's plan at backup quarterback, and Ryan's prediction on Chicago's Week 1 matchup with Green Bay likely won't sit well with Bears fans. Other topics include the Bears' run defense, close-game struggles and the Packers' most punchable face post-Aaron Rodgers. Tune in for the latest Bears insights with Week 1 fantasy football advice from TheHuddle.com!

Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri break down the Bears' preseason opener, with thoughts on Justin Fields' huge stat line and how the team's top rookies performed in their first taste of NFL action. Other topics include Velus Jones on the roster bubble, the Yannick Ngakoue signing, and Aaron Rodgers on Episode 1 of Hard Knocks. Tune in all season for all the insights and analysis!

Welcome back to the Bears Wire Podcast! Hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri get together to preview the start of Bears training camp. Topics include the team's intriguing battle for reps at running back, expectations for Justin Fields and his new supporting cast on offense, and some major areas of concern the team still must address to be competitive. Also, does anyone on the Bears' roster have more to prove this season than Chase Claypool?

Join hosts Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri as they dissect the Bears' 2023 schedule and give their way-too-early predictions for every game. Are the Bears a good or bad bet to go over 7.5 wins this season?

Join Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri on the Bears Wire Podcast as they review the Bears' 2023 draft class! They celebrate another successful Bears Draft Bingo card, discuss the team's decision to pass on star defensive lineman Jalen Carter, share their favorite picks and biggest surprises from this Bears draft class, and more!

In this episode of the Bears Wire Podcast, Ryan O'Leary and Alyssa Barbieri give their thoughts on the NFL Draft with their third annual Bears Draft Bingo Card. Topics include Ryan Poles being "open for business" with the 9th overall pick, the risk-reward of targeting Georgia's Jalen Carter in the first round, best-case scenarios for the Bears on Day and more. Join as we try to hit Bingo for a third consecutive year!

In this episode of the Bears Wire Podcast, Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri) discuss the team's offseason moves. The duo starts off by analyzing the Bears' blockbuster trade with the Panthers and giving their grades for the deal. They also debate whether the team is all-in on Justin Fields or if they are still evaluating him. Additionally, they share their first impressions of the Bears' new LB duo and discuss the team's backfield with new additions D'Onta Foreman and Travis Homer. The hosts also talk about Ryan Poles' remaining salary cap space and the team's biggest needs. Finally, they address Aaron Rodgers' potential move to New York and how it could affect the Bears' division. Tune in for a lively and informative discussion about the Chicago Bears' offseason!

In a six-pack of offseason questions, topics this week include setting a way-too-early bar for the Bears in 2023, final grades for the team's first-year head coach and GM, our favorite mock draft scenarios so far … and more! Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include takeaways from new Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren's introductory press conference, and reactions to Mike Tannenbaum's obsession with trading Justin Fields. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Bears fans have much to look forward to in the 2023 offseason, especially after old friend Lovie Smith helped Chicago land the No. 1 overall pick in this April's NFL Draft. Will new GM Ryan Poles trade back for a haul? Could he really fall in love with a QB in this draft class? And how should Bears fans feel about the team acquiring Chase Claypool for the No. 32 overall pick? All of that and more on our first offseason episode, hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include perspective on the scary situation regarding the Bills and injured safety Damar Hamlin, the Bears' passing game woes against a bad Lions defense, and how the Bears can land the No. 1 overall pick in 2023 if things break right in 2023. Also, a look at Bears-Vikings with picks against the spread. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri)

Topics this week include Chicago's current 2023 draft slot, an injury bug that just won't go away, and should Matt Eberflus and Co. be adjusting their approach to games with three weeks left in the regular season? Also, Justin Fields vs. Josh Allen, and a Bears-Bills preview with picks against the spread and total. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include a six-pack of questions involving the Bears entering the final month of the season, including superlatives, early thoughts on the offseason, and which NFC North team poses the biggest long-term threat? Also, a Bears-Eagles preview with betting predictions and top plays for the fantasy football playoffs. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include the Packers flexing over another win at Soldier Field, the Bears' new approach with Justin Fields, and Luke Getsy's conservative play calling. Also, why the Bears have a very clear path to drafting No. 2 overall in 2023. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include the ongoing debate on when (or whether) Justin Fields should play again this season, what to expect after season-ending injuries to Darnell Mooney and Eddie Jackson, and a Packers Week preview with picks against the spread. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include Justin Fields' shoulder injury and how the Bears should handle their franchise quarterback if he's limited in practice this week. Also, redrafting the quarterbacks in the 2021 NFL Draft, and a Bears-Jets preview with picks against the spread. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include the Bears' struggles in end-of-game situations, Chase Claypool's slow start and the stellar debut of linebacker Jack Sanborn. Also, a Bears-Falcons preview with picks against the spread. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include Justin Fields' record-setting day against the Dolphins, the team's new approach on offense, and why this is setting up to be the perfect season for the 2022 Bears. Also, thoughts on Chase Claypool's debut and a Bears-Lions preview with picks against the spread. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include the Bears' active trade deadline, how fans should feel about Chase Claypool coming to Chicago, and what trading Robert Quinn and Roquan Smith says about Ryan Poles' vision for the team moving forward. Also, a Bears-Dolphins preview with picks against the spread. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include reaction to the Bears' galvanizing win over the Patriots, Luke Getsy unlocking a new dimension for QB Justin Fields and the offense, and how Matt Eberflus and the Bears got the better of Bill Belichick's Patriots in Foxboro. Also, a Bears-Cowboys preview with picks against the spread. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri).

Topics this week include takes on Justin Fields and this struggling Bears offense, David Montgomery vs. Khalil Herbert and why another lost season might be all according to plan for new GM Ryan Poles. Also, a Bears-Patriots preview with picks against the spread. Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri)

Topics this week include Justin Fields' best game of the season, Matt Eberflus' defensive adjustments against the Vikings and why we need more Velus Jones and less Dante Pettis in our lives immediately. Also, should Ryan Poles call Carolina to kick the tires on No. 1 wide receiver DJ Moore? Hosted Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri)

Host Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri) break down Chicago's win over Houston with takes on Justin Fields and the team's nonexistent passing game. Is the Bears' new regime doing enough to bolster the confidence of its young quarterback? Also, game balls for Bears' rushing attack and defense, and a Bears-Giants preview with predictions.

Host Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri) react to Chicago's disappointing night in Green Bay. Topics this week include Luke Getsy's conservative play-calling, Justin Fields' lack of decisiveness and a Bears defense that was not ready to stop the Packers' rushing attack. After diagnosing all of those ailments, they look at Bears-Texans with a preview and picks against the spread.

Host Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri) kick off Season 3 on the pod with takes on coach Matt Eberflus' strong debut and Justin Fields' monster fourth quarter. Also, a Bears-Packers preview with picks against the spread.

Host Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri) give their takes on the N'Keal Harry trade, Justin Fields, top position battles to watch in training camp and more!

Host Ryan O'Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri) recap the team's mandatory minicamp, hitting on Robert Quinn being MIA, early predictions for the offensive line, thoughts on new coach Matt Eberflus and more!

Host Ryan O’Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri) discuss Chicago’s 2022 schedule. The TIPICO Sportsbook is calling the Bears a strong favorite to finish OVER 6.5 wins this season. Do you agree? Also, takes on Tarik Cohen’s freak injury, the mysterious signing of QB Nathan Peterman and the team’s projected depth chart entering training camp.

Host Ryan O’Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri) react to the first draft class of the Ryan Poles era in Chicago. But there is another pressing matter on this week’s pod: giving Nick Foles a proper farewell.

Host Ryan O’Leary (@RyanO_Leary) and Bears Wire Managing Editor Alyssa Barbieri (@AlyssaBarbieri) unveil this year’s Bears Wire Draft Bingo Card and give their final takes on the team entering the draft. What should we expect from new GM Ryan Poles with no first-round pick and just six selections overall?