Ben Johnson’s Surprising Decision in Bears’ Overtime Victory
After a nail-biting contest against the Green Bay Packers, Bears head coach Ben Johnson found himself at a crossroads. With the game on the line and Caleb Williams connecting with Jahdae Walker for a touchdown late in the fourth quarter, many anticipated a bold call. Johnson had hinted at an aggressive approach earlier, suggesting he would go for a two-point conversion to seal the game. However, in a twist that left fans and players alike astonished, he opted for the extra point, pushing the game into overtime.
Trusting the Defense
The decision to kick the PAT instead of chasing the win was met with surprise, particularly from veteran safety Kevin Byard. Following the game, Byard expressed his astonishment at Johnson’s choice. “Honestly, [kicking the PAT] was a little bit surprising to me,” he told reporters after the Bears secured a 22-16 victory. “We were on the sideline, talking amongst each other, like, if we score right here, we’re going for two, we’re going for the win! I think [Ben] just put his trust in the defense that we would get a stop.”
Byard’s reflections hinted at the team’s collective expectation for Johnson to take a risk in that moment. Known for his aggressive play-calling, Johnson’s decision seemed to defy his usual instincts. Yet, the outcome proved fortuitous, much to the relief of both players and fans.
The Statistical Gamble
When questioned about his rationale, Johnson shared insights that blended analytics with instinct. “Two-point conversion success is under 50 percent, and I thought we had a better than 50 percent chance to win it in overtime,” he explained in his postgame remarks. This statistical reasoning underscored a calculated approach, indicating that his confidence in the team’s ability to perform in overtime outweighed the potential rewards of a two-point conversion.
In the end, Johnson’s decision not only showcased a different tactical mindset but also highlighted the complexities of coaching decisions that can define a game. The Bears’ defense ultimately came through, solidifying their victory and proving that sometimes, a conservative choice can lead to a triumphant finish.
