Matt Eberflus’ job security as the Chicago Bears Head Coach has diminished after yet another loss on the road against the Arizona Cardinals. His record of 0-18 in Sunday road games, with a point differential of -181, and multiple blown leads with a 91% win probability in the fourth quarter have become increasingly difficult to justify. It was recently revealed that Detroit Lions Offensive Coordinator Ben Johnson was interested in the Bears HC gig last offseason, but the team opted to stick with Eberflus. Now that Eberflus is likely gone after this season, hiring Johnson as the next head coach makes perfect sense.
Ben Johnson Makes Perfect Sense as the Next Bears Head Coach
Ben Johnson’s Credentials Make Him a Compelling Choice for the Bears
No one has been more instrumental in the Detroit Lions’ offensive success than Ben Johnson. Under his guidance, the Lions’ offense has become one of the NFL’s most formidable units, ranking among the league’s best in several major categories last season. They finished second in passing offense, third in total offense, and fifth in both rushing offense and points per game. This season isn’t any different, with the Lions offense continuing to dominate on the field. Lions’ Senior Writer Tim Twentyman had this to say about Detroit’s success on offense.
“Offensively, they have turned the ball over just five times in seven games, which is tied for the fourth fewest in the league. They rank seventh in third-down percentage (42.9) and seventh in red-zone efficiency (65.5). Detroit doesn’t turn the ball over much, they keep drives alive on third down and when they get into the red zone, they punch it into the end zone more often than settling for field goals. That’s good offensive football.”
Ben Johnson isn’t the only one who deserves credit for the Lions’ offensive success—General Manager Brad Holmes has also played a pivotal role in building this roster from the ground up. The Lions now feature Pro Bowl talent across the field, with standout players like Jahmyr Gibbs, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Frank Ragnow, Penei Sewell, and others. While the Bears also have star players on offense, they need a skilled play-caller like Johnson to reach the next level.
"I love Play Calling. If I took a Head Coaching Job, I would want to be a Play Calling Head Coach."
– Ben Johnson pic.twitter.com/k1hBfo4jlM
— Coach Dan Casey (@CoachDanCasey) November 5, 2024
Focusing on the Development of Caleb Williams
The Bears have been stuck in a cycle of mediocrity for too long, and it’s time for a change. The priority should be to support Caleb Williams’ development by pairing him with a skilled play-caller as his head coach. Although Ben Johnson has never been a head coach, his work as the Lions’ offensive coordinator has been outstanding. If the Bears organization truly cares about winning, they’ll make sure Johnson is coaching for them next season.
As for Bears GM Ryan Poles, he has to focus on adding quality players in the trenches during free agency and the NFL Draft. It’s no surprise that the Lions have a fantastic offense, largely because of the offensive line. They might have the best offensive line in the NFL, and having guys who can keep Caleb on his feet will be huge in taking the next steps in becoming the franchise quarterback for the Bears.
Main Image: Junfu Han – USA Today Sports
