Ben Johnson’s Trick Play Falls Flat Against Bears
In the Week 4 matchup between the Chicago Bears and the Las Vegas Raiders, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson attempted to revive one of his signature plays from his time with the Detroit Lions. This particular play, known as the “stumblebum,” had previously garnered attention for its successful execution during the 2022 season.
During a pivotal Week 16 game last year, the Lions orchestrated this clever maneuver to great effect. Quarterback Jared Goff connected with tight end Sam LaPorta for a crucial touchdown, showcasing the play’s potential. However, when Johnson opted to roll it out again in Las Vegas, the results were far from favorable for the Bears.
As the play unfolded, quarterback Caleb Williams executed a fake stumble, attempting to draw in the defense. Yet, the familiar magic of the “stumblebum” was noticeably absent. Williams rolled out but sent his pass soaring well beyond the reach of his intended target.
The Bears’ defense, aware of the trickery, effectively shut down the play, leaving Johnson’s gamble in the dust. It served as a stark reminder that some tactics are best left in the past, especially when facing a formidable opponent.
The experiment may have not panned out this time, but with Johnson at the helm, the potential for creativity remains a constant theme in the Bears’ offensive strategy.
