Bears’ Mike Ditka Tribute Has a Super Bowl Twist That Hits Home

The Chicago Bears are hosting a tribute to former head coach Mike Ditka on Thursday night against the New England Patriots at Soldier Field. Ditka passed away on October 9 at age 86, and the game marks Chicago's first home contest since his death. The matchup carries historic significance because the Patriots were the opponent Ditka's Bears defeated 46-10 in Super Bowl XX to capture the franchise's only Super Bowl victory.

Fans attending the game will receive Ditka-inspired mustaches, while the first 10,000 will receive knit headbands modeled after his iconic sweater vest. Pre-game events include Ditka flags, a field stencil, a south courtyard memorial display, and a moment of silence before kickoff. Current head coach Ben Johnson called Ditka the gold standard, as players continue to wear a No. 89 jersey patch for the season.