Nine years later - look back at the Bears' Super Bowl loss

It’s been exactly nine years since one of the most exciting days in Bears franchise history turned depressing. The pain from losing the 2007 Super Bowl can still be felt not only in Chicago, but by all of the veterans who failed to earn a Super Bowl ring.

The Bears were arguably the best team in the league throughout the season. With the top seed in the NFC, they pushed through their first two playoff games. The Bears beat Seattle on a field goal in overtime, then controlled the Saints winning by double-digits.

When they reached the Super Bowl, Peyton Manning and the Indianapolis Colts were waiting. Despite all his success, it was Manning’s first trip to the Super Bowl. The game set up for a classic struggle between a premier offense and top-notch defense.

From the start, things looked good for the Bears. Devin Hester returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown and the Bears held on to a lead through most of the first half. However, bad weather and turnovers changed the game for the Bears. By halftime, they had given up the lead and would never get it back.

Despite staying close through most of the game and not allowing Manning to put them away, the Bears couldn’t get over the hump. A late interception virtually ended the game, as the Bears lost 29-17.

This year, some familiar foes will face off in Super Bowl 50. Manning, now with the Broncos will again try to prevent Charles Tillman and Ron Rivera and the Panthers from winning a Super Bowl.

Super Bowl XLI: Colts over Bears