Only 19 days ago, the Bears went to Detroit and completely dominated a game that they eventually lost in the last four minutes. They had outgained the Lions 358-191 yards, taken the ball away four times, and held the ball for over 40 minutes at that point. Complete control like that rarely occurs in NFL games, when the level of talent between teams is so close that little distinguishes the best from the worst other from ability to execute.
The rematch takes place, and the Bears should be comfortable with the task at hand having completing it less than three weeks ago. They also enjoy an extra week of relaxation and preparation following their bye week, which the Lions do not have.
The Lions visit what is likely to be a frigid, windy Soldier Field, bringing with them an offensive coordinator who is expected to be one of the most sought-after head coaching candidates this offseason, not that the Bears should be interested (wink, wink).
The Lions visit what is likely to be a frigid, windy Soldier Field, bringing with them an offensive coordinator who is expected to be one of the most sought-after head coaching candidates this offseason, not that the Bears should be interested (wink, wink). BearDigest went behind enemy lines with All Lions publisher John Maakaron to find out why the Lions rose to the top, faltered on defense, were defeated by Green Bay after the miraculous rally to beat the Bears, and now have weaker NFL teams circling with hopes of hiring OC Ben Johnson as a coach.
Here’s what Maakaron thought of the game on Sunday, as well as which team Johnson would be a good match for as a head coach.
Q: To what extent do you believe Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson will be able to succeed as a head coach; what are his talents, and where does he leave you scratching your head? Maakaron: Johnson will be one of the most sought-after head coaching prospects this offseason. He can create plays at an elite level and brilliantly call successful moves that other teams have used against an opponent in the past. Johnson, in my opinion, would be an excellent option to replace Brandon Staley with the Chargers. Working with Justin Herbert and the offensive weaponry in Los Angeles would pave the way for the young offensive mind’s success.
Recently, Detroit’s attack has become predictable, and play-calling in the red zone might be improved. Q: What do you see as Detroit’s major defensive issues that need to be addressed in the offseason, considering that they are 23rd in scoring defense and have given up 26 points or more in five of the previous six games, as well as 28 points or more five times? Maakaron: Detroit simply lacks an inside presence along the defensive line. Aidan Hutchinson is unable to finish, and his sack total is significantly lower than predicted.
To make matters worse, defensive tackle Alim McNeill was recently placed on injured reserve. Detroit will most likely look to unproven guys like Levi Onwuzurike to step up. Many people want rookie Brodric Martin to receive his chance, but the coaching staff has made it plain that he is a developmental player who is still in his early stages. Benito Jones, Isaiah Buggs, and Quinton Bohanna are among those who could fill in. In addition, because the team lacks a real No. 1 lockdown cornerback, Detroit will spend draft capital on a defensive back.
To make matters worse, defensive tackle Alim McNeill was recently placed on injured reserve. Detroit will most likely look to unproven guys like Levi Onwuzurike to step up. Many people want rookie Brodric Martin to receive his chance, but the coaching staff has made it plain that he is a developmental player who is still in his early stages. Benito Jones, Isaiah Buggs, and Quinton Bohanna are among those who could fill in. In addition, because the team lacks a real No. 1 lockdown cornerback, Detroit will spend draft capital on a defensive back.
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