The Charter: A Chicago Bears Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Bears are in the driver's seat Dec 16, 2025

Show notes

Ruthie Polinsky and Clay Harbor break down the Bears’ win over the Browns, focusing on what it means to take care of business with the playoff picture coming into sharper focus. They discuss the key takeaways from the performance, hand out game balls and examine how this win fits into the Bears’ path down the stretch. With the Bears in strong playoff position, they also outline potential clinch scenarios and break down what still needs to fall into place across the NFC North.

The conversation then zooms out to the broader NFC playoff landscape before getting “Wired In” with a deep dive on Caleb Williams’ performance against Cleveland. From his two-touchdown day and signature throw to DJ to the milestones stacking up in his rookie season, Ruthie and Clay analyze what his growth says about the Bears’ ceiling. Plus, the latest trending storylines around the league — including injury news and Philip Rivers' near comeback against Seattle.

Lots to like in Bears Loss | The Charter Dec 09, 2025

Show notes

Ruthie Polinsky and Clay Harbor dive into the Bears’ 28-21 loss to the Packers. They break down how a resilient second-half surge shows the team’s true identity. They examine what the second-half dominance on both sides of the ball says about the Bears’ playoff push, and what controlling their own destiny really looks like with three of the final four at home.

They also take a wide-angle look at the NFC picture — including the Bears playoff odds — before getting “Wired In” with a deep breakdown of Caleb Williams’ boot-heavy game plan, his big-time throws, and whether he made the right decision on the final play. Plus: the latest trending storylines across the Bears offense, from DJ Moore’s usage to emerging playmakers, and why certain late-game decisions were more sound than they may have looked in real time.

Bears-Eagles Black Friday Preview Nov 27, 2025

Show notes

Ruthie Polinsky and Clay Harbor break down the Bears–Eagles Black Friday clash. They examine how a healthier defense could change C.J. Gardner-Johnson’s role, who’s primed for a breakout performance, and how Ozzy Trapilo fits the Bears’ OL equation going forward.

They also discuss what Caleb Williams needs to deliver four clean quarters, how the Bears can force the Eagles into mistakes, and ways Chicago can take advantage of the Philly atmosphere. Plus: defensive injury updates, score predictions, and a Thanksgiving-themed closing question — what are you thankful for?

Can the Bears Keep Momentum Rolling vs. the Steelers? Nov 20, 2025

Show notes

Ruthie Polinsky and Clay Harbor preview Bears–Steelers in Week 12 as Chicago looks to improve to 8–3 on the season. They talk through the latest on Aaron Rodgers’ injury, whether we’ll see him or Mason Rudolph, and how much that actually affects the matchup. Clay breaks down what Caleb Williams and the Bears offensive line will need to handle from Pittsburgh’s pass rush, and how injuries at linebacker could factor into the Steelers’ ground game. They revisit the up-and-down special teams performance against the Vikings, discuss Ben Johnson’s game management and message to Caleb, and close the show with a thank you and farewell to producer Edgar Perez.

Bears Look to Avenge Their Week 1 Meltdown Against the Vikings Nov 14, 2025

Show notes

Ruthie Polinsky and Clay Harbor are back on The Charter and they look back at what’s changed for the Bears since Week 1. They break down a more consistent run game, Caleb Williams settling in, and how Ben Johnson’s approach has shaped the offense. They also talk through the challenges of facing Brian Flores’ defense, J.J. McCarthy’s development, and how the Bears can handle Minnesota’s playmakers while dealing with their own injuries in the secondary. And finally, the potential expanded roles for Colston Loveland and Luther Burden and wrap up with their game picks.

How the Bears MUST Control the Giants on Sunday Nov 07, 2025

Show notes

Ruthie Polinsky and Clay Harbor get you ready for Sunday’s matchup. The crew breaks down why this game is crucial for the Bears’ playoff chances, how Ben Johnson’s offense has built confidence in the run game, and why Darnell Wright’s growth has been a key part of that success. Clay explains what makes the Giants’ defensive front dangerous, the plan to handle Brian Burns, and how the Bears’ physical style could set the tone early.

Is It a MUST-WIN Game Against the Bengals? Oct 30, 2025

Show notes

The Bears sign C.J. Gardner-Johnson. Ruthie Polinsky and Clay Harbor break down what his arrival means for a banged up defense. We dive into why this addition could inject attitude into the locker room, how his connection with Dennis Allen helps him fit fast, and what kind of spark he can bring right away in Cincinnati. Then we turn to the Bengals matchup: Joe Flacco availability, defensive line pressure problems, red zone failures, and why this week feels like a must-win for Caleb Williams and Ben Johnson’s offense.

With or Without Lamar: What a Bears Victory Would Really Mean Oct 24, 2025

Show notes

Ruthie Polinsky and Clay Harbor break down the stakes for Chicago heading into Week 8 against the Ravens. They discuss the defense’s breakout performance this season and what Caleb Williams needs to clean up after a shaky outing vs. the Saints. The crew hits on Tremaine Edmunds’ renewed play, Colston Loveland’s growing role, why the run game is finally rolling, and how Ben Johnson’s leadership is setting the tone. Plus: what a win with Lamar would really say about this Bears team.

Bears–Saints Preview: Weather impact, Swift Running Well, & Rattler's Revenge Oct 17, 2025

Show notes

Ruthie Polinsky and Clay Harbor set the stage as the Saints are set to visit the Bears. They break down why weather tilts toward Chicago, how D'Andre Swift can drive the run game, and what Jake Moody’s call-up means with Cairo Santos ruled out. Clay outlines the blueprint on how each team can pull out the victory. Plus: Dennis Allen’s inside intel on New Orleans and Rattler vs. Caleb by the numbers.

Back to Business: Bears-Commanders Monday Night Breakdown Oct 09, 2025

Show notes

With Chicago fresh off the bye week, Ruthie Polinsky and Clay Harbor dive back into Bears football with renewed energy and plenty to unpack. They discuss the team’s momentum, Ben Johnson’s offensive reset, and how Kyler Gordon and Tyrique Stevenson can spark the defense. Plus, a full Bears-Commanders Monday night preview featuring Caleb Williams vs. Jaden Daniels and the key matchups that will define it.

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