The Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears renew their NFC rivalry in the first game this season to get “Monday Night Football” coverage on Monday, Sept. 8.
With the Vikings starting J.J. McCarthy at quarterback, the Bears will counter with Caleb Williams. Veteran Carson Wentz will back up McCarthy, while Tyson Bagent will serve as Williams’ backup.
Both teams are looking to enter playoff conversations this season. Minnesota finished 14-3 in 2024, second in the NFC North, and lost to the Los Angeles Rams 29-7 in the NFC wild-card game. The Vikings want more than just a wild-card spot this season.
Chicago, now led by new head coach Ben Johnson after Matt Eberflus’ firing, went 5-12 last year and finished last in the NFC North. The Bears scored 310 points but allowed 370.
How can Vikings, Bears, and NFL fans listen to Monday night’s game?
Minnesota Vikings vs. Chicago Bears Radio Info
- Date: Monday, Sept. 8, 2025
- Time: 8:15 p.m. ET
- Location: Soldier Field, Chicago
- Radio:
- Vikings: KFAN FM 100.3
- Bears: ESPN 1000
- Westwood One (national radio call, Kevin Harlan and Kurt Warner)
For the Vikings, whose fans will be closely watching how McCarthy plays in his first NFL start, longtime play-by-play voice Paul Allen is in his 24th season. Former Vikings linebacker and coach Pete Bercich will provide analysis for his 19th season, and Ben Leber will report from the Vikings’ sidelines.
Vikings QB J.J. McCarthy seems unrattled approaching his first NFL start against the Bears at Soldier Field.
“I just try to be completely present, there’s going to be anxiousness, excitement and a whole lot of adrenaline. Accepting those emotions, you’re able to let go of them.” pic.twitter.com/MJ0lc1x8Ls
— Trevor Squire (@trevordsquire) September 4, 2025
For the Bears, Jeff Joniak will be on the call as the team’s play-by-play voice, working alongside analyst Tom Thayer. Jason McKie will provide sideline reports.
NFL fans can also tune into Westwood One for national coverage with longtime play-by-play voice Kevin Harlan and Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner.
The Vikings’ final injury report, released Saturday, ruled out running back Zavier Scott and defensive tackle Elijah Williams for Monday night’s matchup. Safety Harrison Smith was listed as doubtful with an illness, while starting left tackle Christian Darrisaw was tagged questionable because of a knee injury.
For the Bears, linebacker T.J. Edwards was designated doubtful with a hamstring issue. Chicago also listed three players as questionable: starting cornerback Jaylon Johnson (calf/groin), nickelback Josh Blackwell (groin), and running back Roschon Johnson (foot).