Bears’ Head Coach Ben Johnson Plans Major Revamp of Rushing Attack Against Lions
The Chicago Bears are poised for a significant overhaul of their rushing strategy as they prepare for a crucial Week 2 matchup against the Detroit Lions. Head coach Ben Johnson has indicated that changes are on the horizon, particularly in how the team approaches its ground game.
Struggles in Week 1
In their season opener against the Minnesota Vikings, the Bears’ running game was virtually nonexistent. Starting running back D’Andre Swift struggled to find his footing, tallying just 53 yards on 17 carries. To add to the disarray, quarterback Caleb Williams emerged as the team’s leading rusher with 58 yards—an outcome that hardly reflects a balanced offensive attack.
Johnson, recognizing the need for improvement, addressed the issue head-on during a press conference. “I need to call more runs,” he stated, reflecting on the team’s subpar performance. “We probably were at, what, under 20 for called runs in the game?” This acknowledgment signals a commitment to reshaping the offensive approach.
A New Direction for the Rushing Game
Johnson, who joined the Bears with a reputation for building robust rushing attacks, has faced criticism for not providing his other running backs with the opportunities they need to succeed. While Swift’s performance was disappointing, the lack of variety in play calling limited the effectiveness of the ground game overall.
Calls for increased involvement from other players are growing louder, with fans suggesting that Johnson should look to give running back Kyle Monangai a chance to shine. The frustration is palpable as observers note that Swift’s timing seems off, leading to calls for a fresh perspective in the backfield.
As the Bears gear up for their clash against the Lions, all eyes will be on Johnson’s strategic adjustments. Will he stick to his plan and diversify the rushing attack? Or will the Bears continue to struggle in an area that is crucial for their offensive success? Only time will tell as the team seeks to find its footing in the early stages of the season.
