Packers honor Mike Ditka before Bears rivalry game

The Green Bay Packers will honor former Chicago Bears coach Mike Ditka with a moment of silence before Sunday's game in Green Bay. The tribute recognizes Ditka's role in the historic Packers Bears rivalry after his passing two days earlier.

The Packers issued a statement describing Ditka as a major figure in the rivalry between the two franchises. The team said his competitiveness and contributions to football will be remembered despite his history as an opponent.

"One of the fiercest competitors in NFL history, Mike helped define the intensity and tradition of the Packers-Bears rivalry, the oldest in professional football. He embodied the toughness and passion that have made the rivalry one of the most storied in all of sports. While he was a formidable opponent, his contributions to the game and to a rivalry that has meant so much to both franchises will always be respected and remembered by the Green Bay Packers." the Packers said in a statement.

According to the Packers, Ditka posted a 15-5 record against Green Bay during his 11 seasons as head coach of Chicago. The two teams did not complete victories in his first season's meetings because of a players strike.

Ditka's Bears teams swept the Packers in six seasons, including 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1990 and 1991, according to the team's historical records.