The 2019 NFL regular season is ready to kick off next week and everything will start with the Green Bay Packers facing off against the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. In years past, the Packers vs. Bears matchup has brought a lot of entertainment to the fans and that will likely end up being the case once again this year.

Aaron Rodgers and the Packers have missed the playoffs in each of the last two seasons, but went on a big spending spree in free agency this offseason to dramatically improve their roster. Mike Pettine and the defense are a lot better and the franchise feels very good about their offense as well. New head coach Matt LaFleur is bringing a lot of changes, which will be fun to watch.

Chicago, on the other hand, won the NFC North last season, but were bounced out of the playoffs in heartbreaking fashion by the Philadelphia Eagles. Matt Nagy and company have not forgotten that pain. They will be looking to start the season off with a point proving win over the Packers, stating that they are still the team to beat in the division.

These two teams are bitter rivals, which usually means a little more chippy moments throughout the game. That kind of football is the best kind of football and fans should make sure to tune in on Thursday night.

All of that being said, let's dive in and take a look at four bold predictions for the Packers vs. Bears matchup this week.

Khalil Mack, Bears

4. Khalil Mack Starts Strong with Two Sacks

Chicago acquired Khalil Mack from the Oakland Raiders prior to the start of last season and he caused problems for the Packers and the rest of the NFL. He is one of the best defensive playmakers in the NFL and will get off to a strong start this season.

While the Packers feel they have an improved offensive line, Mack is going to get to Rodgers at least twice. Green Bay simply can't shut him down. Mack is going to make a major difference in the game and help make things difficult on Rodgers and the offense.

3. Aaron Rodgers Throws for Four Touchdowns

Even with Mack breathing down his neck, Rodgers is still one of the best quarterbacks to ever throw a football in the NFL. He is coming off of an offseason that saw the media continually attack him. Rodgers is going to come out looking to make a statement of his own.

Aaron Rodgers, Packers

LaFleur's offense is going to be a much better fit for Rodgers than Mike McCarthy's was at the end of his tenure in Green Bay. He may not rack up as many attempts or as much yardage as he has in years past, but touchdowns are going to be there. Rodgers will throw four touchdowns against the Bears in Week 1.

2. Aaron Jones Rushes for Over 120 Yards

Chicago has a very strong defense, but the LaFleur offense is going to thrive in Week 1. Aaron Jones did not play in the preseason, but he is expected to have a major breakout season. That will start right off the bat this week.

Jones is going to come in, get a lot of carries, and rack up over 120 yards. Green Bay is going to run the football early and often as they set up Rodgers and the passing game. That will result in a big season for Jones and a big week against the Bears.

Aaron Rodgers, Khalil Mack, Bears, Packers

1. Green Bay Beats the Bears 35-24

The Bears are arguably just as good, if not better, than the Packers, but this week will be Green Bay's. LaFleur and his offense are going to be tough to stop and the Green Bay defense will make some big plays.

When everything is said and done, the Packers are going to come away with a 1-0 record and a 35-24 win on the road. These two teams are going to have a long battle this year for the division title. Green Bay will draw the first blood with a big season-opening victory in the hostile atmosphere of Soldier Field.