Ben Johnson stirs Bears-Packers rivalry with pointed jab at Matt LaFleur
Ben Johnson has made a name for himself through his innovative play-calling, particularly with trick plays that keep opponents guessing. Last Sunday, he introduced a different kind of play in Green Bay: the no-look handshake. This move not only showcased his creativity but also reignited the fierce animosity that characterizes the Chicago Bears-Green Bay Packers rivalry—one of the oldest in the NFL, dating back over a century.
A Fresh Dynamic in a Historic Rivalry
With Johnson stepping into the head coach role for the Bears last January, he brought a renewed energy to this storied rivalry, one that is often defined by its intensity and competitive spirit. In a recent statement at Halas Hall, Johnson didn’t shy away from expressing his feelings about his division rivals.
“I’ve got a tremendous amount of respect for the coaches and the players in this division… I’ve been competing against them for the last six years,” he remarked. “And to be quite frank with you, I kind of enjoyed beating Matt LaFleur twice a year.” His words resonate with the long-standing tension and passion that fans and players alike have for this matchup.
No Personal Feud, But Professional Rivalry
While both coaches have not indicated any personal animosity, their professional paths have been distinct. LaFleur has roots in the Kyle Shanahan coaching tree, whereas Johnson’s development has been shaped by his time with the Miami Dolphins and under Dan Campbell with the Detroit Lions. Despite their different backgrounds, Johnson’s comments suggest a competitive edge that could add intrigue to their future encounters on the field.
As the rivalry continues to unfold, both coaches will undoubtedly be looking for ways to outmaneuver each other in the coming seasons, further igniting the passion that fans have come to expect from one of football’s greatest rivalries.
