Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears have one final regular-season matchup remaining, set for Sunday, January 4, against Johnson’s former team, the Detroit Lions.
Although Chicago locked up a playoff berth on December 27, Johnson has made it clear that the upcoming game carries significant importance.
Playoff positioning is still on the line for the Bears. A victory over Detroit would clinch the No. 2 seed in the NFC, which would likely set up a postseason meeting with the Green Bay Packers, currently slotted seventh, according to NFL data.
Securing that seed would also give Chicago a home game in the wild-card round. The Bears can still land the No. 2 spot either by beating the Lions or if the Philadelphia Eagles stumble.
Speaking with reporters on Wednesday, July 31, Johnson discussed Detroit’s on-field identity and the challenge they present. With the game being played in Chicago, the Bears expect the home crowd to play a role in creating a tough environment for the visitors.
Johnson emphasized that Detroit won’t be backing down—and neither will Chicago. He also made it clear that resting starters is not part of the plan, despite some playoff-bound teams choosing that route late in the season.
“They’re going to show up ready to compete,” Johnson said. “That’s who they are. This will be a real test for us. They’re a strong team with talent everywhere you look.”
He went on to acknowledge Detroit’s defense, noting that while they’ve allowed points recently, they remain physical and aggressive up front. Johnson pointed out their ability to pressure the quarterback and contest big plays, adding that the Lions play with speed and intensity on every snap.
Detroit previously defeated Chicago earlier in the season, handing the Bears a lopsided 31-point loss on September 14.
Caleb Williams Shares Similar Mindset
Bears quarterback Caleb Williams echoed Johnson’s sentiments when addressing the media. Williams said he expects Detroit to bring a high level of intensity, drawing from their experience playing spoiler in past seasons.
“They’re not going to roll over,” Williams said. “They’ve been in this position before, where they’re out of the playoff picture but still find a way to beat teams that are in. We have to be ready to match their energy—and then some.”
Chicago is coming off a road loss to the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, December 28, and is eager to bounce back.
While that defeat eliminated their chances of earning the top seed in the NFC, the No. 2 spot remains a strong consolation. The Bears have already secured first place in the NFC North, but they’re aiming to finish the regular season on a high note.
