Our weekly series of what Chicago bars we consider to be likely “hot spots” this weekend, based on what sport teams they support and what games are scheduled. This week, bars were chosen by the NCAA Football Week 5 schedule and the NFL Week 4 schedule (September 28 through October 2, 2017).
Nisei Lounge
If we include Thursday as part of the weekend (and who doesn’t?), then Nisei Lounge will be the place to be for nighttime football action. As one of many Green Bay Packer bars in Chicago, Nisei Lounge welcomes all Cheeseheads on Thursday (September 28) for one of their more looking-forward-to games of the season — taking on the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field. Since 2009, the Bears have once twice (in eight games) at Lambeau Field. The bar scene – especially at bars supporting the Packers – get slightly more enthusiastic any time these two teams get together.
Nisei Lounge (3439 N Sheffield Ave.) also support the Washington State Cougars, who are undefeated after Week 4, with their toughest win coming Week 2 in overtime against Boise State. The Cougars (#19) face their toughest match-up of the season to-date, hosting the red-hot USC Trojans. The Trojans already have victories over respected programs like Texas, California and Stanford.
Games Featured:
- Chicago Bears at Green Bay Packers (Thursday, 7:25pm CT, NFL Network)
- Northern Illinois Huskies at Washington State Cougars (#19) (Saturday, 9:30pm CT, CBSSN)
Finley Dunne’s Tavern
Finley Dunne’s Tavern (3458 N Lincoln Ave.) will play the underdog this weekend as their teams are both visiting tough opponents. Their Ole Miss Rebels face a challenge only few have successfully overcome; go into Tuscaloosa to try and overcome Nick Saban and the Alabama Crimson Tide (#1). The Rebels are coming off their first lost off the season against the California Golden Bears, although the game was close. It doesn’t get much easier for them though, as they visit Alabama again to go up against the Auburn Tigers.
The Oakland Raiders can make a huge statement in the AFC South if they can find a way to overcome the Broncos in Denver. While Kansas City remains the top dog in the division, the winner of this game will be 3-1 and put themselves in a good position to head into the post-season.
Games Featured:
- Ole Miss Rebels at Alabama Crimson Tide (#1) (Saturday, 8:00pm CT, ESPN)
- Oakland Raiders at Denver Broncos (Sunday, 4:25pm CT, CBS)