When Lovie Smith took the reins as head coach of the Chicago Bears, he declared that beating Green Bay was his top priority. This wasn’t just about rivalry; it was a strategic move recognizing that overcoming the Packers was crucial for the Bears' success. Fast forward, and Ben Johnson seems to have taken a page from that playbook, dialing up the intensity to new levels since his arrival last January.
Johnson's disdain for the Packers and their head coach, Matt LaFleur, was clear from day one. His interactions post-game were curt, and his press conferences leading up to matchups were anything but cordial. After a wild card victory against them, he famously shouted an expletive-laden celebration in the locker room, leaving no doubt about his feelings.
For Johnson, this isn’t about making friends; it’s about winning. Since joining the NFC North in 2019, he’s viewed the Packers as the primary hurdle.
Their early dominance in the rivalry with the Detroit Lions only fueled his competitive fire. Taking the helm of their arch-rival, the Bears, gave him the perfect platform to retaliate.
Now, with a 2-1 record against the Packers and a stunning playoff comeback under his belt, Johnson is unapologetic about being a polarizing figure. By embracing the rivalry, he deflects attention from his team, allowing them to focus solely on victory.
Historically, Bears coaches have had varied success against Green Bay. From George Halas’s record-setting wins to Lovie Smith’s respectable tally, the rivalry has seen its share of ups and downs. Johnson’s early success adds a fresh chapter, with his 2025-26 NFC Wild Card win marking a significant milestone.
Johnson doesn’t see the Packers as an insurmountable foe. Much like Rex Ryan’s approach to Bill Belichick, Johnson isn’t here to play nice.
His mission is clear: compete fiercely and win. The Packers have long been a thorn in the Bears’ side, and Johnson is determined to change that narrative.
By provoking the Packers, Johnson aims to disrupt their focus, making them more concerned with the Bears than their overall game plan. It’s a strategy that has proven effective, and his recent interview antics only serve to keep Green Bay on edge. The more he can unsettle them, the better it is for his team.