The Chicago Bears are gearing up for the start of the new season, and expectations in the Windy City couldn’t be higher. With Ben Johnson taking over as head coach after his successful stint with the Detroit Lions, the franchise is undergoing major changes and will look much different than it did a year ago.
The Bears open their campaign against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday, September 4. But the matchup that has everyone talking is Week 2, when Johnson will meet his former boss, Dan Campbell, and the Lions on September 14.
In the lead-up to his first season at the helm, Johnson has been making media rounds and hasn’t shied away from discussing the looming clash with Detroit. When asked about facing his old team, his responses carried the confidence of someone eager to prove himself.
Johnson Ready for the Challenge
Because the Bears and Lions both compete in the NFC North, they’ll face off twice this season — with the possibility of another meeting in the playoffs.
During an appearance on First Things First with Danny Parkins on August 25, Johnson was questioned about whether he’d roll out any surprises when facing Detroit. His short but telling answer was, “Maybe,” paired with a grin. That alone suggested he might already have a few creative wrinkles saved up for Campbell’s squad.
Johnson also revealed that he has continued using some of the trick plays he designed in Detroit. One such play — which he’d run multiple times with the Lions — appeared in the preseason against the Buffalo Bills and led directly to a touchdown.
Campbell Fires Back
Meanwhile, Campbell has addressed the looming rivalry from his own perspective. Speaking with WXYZ’s Brad Galli, he admitted that while he still considers Johnson a friend, competition comes first.
“I want to beat them. We want to beat them. I’m sure they want to beat us,” Campbell said. “It doesn’t matter who we’re playing — we’re out for blood.”
Campbell emphasized that while he respects Johnson, his approach won’t change just because of their past connection.
Rivalry Heating Up
Even though both coaches downplay any personal tension, it’s clear there’s extra juice behind this matchup. Johnson will want to prove himself in his first season with Chicago, and Campbell isn’t interested in giving his former assistant an easy win.
The September 14 game promises to be more than just another regular-season contest — it’s shaping up to be a true rivalry clash.
