Bold claim: Ben Johnson faces a mountain-sized challenge as he takes the Bears into Lambeau on Sunday, aiming to defeat a Packers defense many believe could be the toughest test of the year. That is the reality Johnson highlighted when he accepted the head coaching job earlier this year and joked about enjoying the chance to beat Matt LaFleur twice a season while coordinating the Lions’ offense.
Now, in his new role, Johnson will get his first opportunity to outduel LaFleur. He describes Green Bay’s defense as potentially the best he’s seen this season and will need a smart, aggressive game plan to topple it. Johnson pointed to a star group that includes Micah Parsons, Rashan Gary, Quay Walker, and Edgerrin Cooper, all thriving under defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley.
“They present serious matchup challenges for both the running backs and pass protection,” Johnson said. “They have fast defenders who move sideline to sideline. The safeties may be the best pair we’ve faced all year—highly active in the run game, all over the field. It’s a tall task, especially when you factor in Hafley’s scheme, which can look simple to the defense but appears complex to the offense. Still, those players play fast, and that speed shows up on tape.”
A potential opening exists for the Bears after Green Bay lost defensive tackle Devonte Wyatt to a season-ending ankle injury last week. Chicago showed offensive teeth in their previous game by rushing for 249 yards against the Eagles, a signal they’ll try to exploit the Packers’ front. Green Bay will counter with a game plan of its own, and the winner of this strategic clash could set the tone for what may become a long-standing NFC North rivalry.
