Ben Johnson Focused on the Here and Now
As the Detroit Lions prepare for their final regular-season game against the San Francisco 49ers, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson is firmly rooted in the present. When asked about the possibility of his former boss, head coach Dan Campbell, resting starters in the upcoming matchup, Johnson’s response underscored his unwavering commitment to the task at hand.
“Yeah. I’m not even thinking about anything beyond this game right now,” Johnson stated emphatically. “I’d be doing our guys a disservice.”
A Tough Challenge Ahead
Johnson is acutely aware of the formidable challenge that lies ahead. The Lions are set to face a 49ers team that has been on a hot streak, making the road trip to Santa Clara particularly daunting. “We have a really tough opponent at hand here this week. Going out to Santa Clara, across the country. And they’re hot right now,” he added, highlighting the importance of focusing solely on the game rather than speculating about future matchups or strategies.
His dedication to the Lions’ immediate objectives reflects a broader philosophy of preparation and commitment. For Johnson, the goal is clear: find a way to secure a victory and finish the week at 1-0.
Playoff Implications for the Bears
Meanwhile, across the league, the Chicago Bears are positioning themselves for a potential playoff berth. With aspirations of becoming one of the top seeds in the NFC, the Bears know that winning their last two games is crucial, especially if they hope for a misstep from the Seattle Seahawks, who face tough opponents in the coming weeks.
The stakes are high, and the Bears’ path to the top seed hinges on their performance and Seattle’s fortunes. There’s a prevailing belief among fans that the Lions may choose to rest their starters in the final week, potentially paving the way for the Bears to capitalize on any opportunities that arise.
As speculation swirls, one thing remains clear: both the Lions and the Bears are navigating a critical juncture in their seasons, with playoff aspirations driving their respective strategies. For Johnson, however, the singular focus on the upcoming game against the 49ers is paramount.
