Chicago’s Favorite Gimmick: How a Hot Dog Bet Became a Bears Rallying Cry
The Wieners Circle isn’t just a Chicago staple-it’s become an unlikely character in one of the most entertaining side stories of the Bears’ season. What started as a cheeky promotion has turned into a full-blown tradition, blending football, food, and a little bit of fun into a campaign that’s captured the spirit of the city.
It all kicked off when the famed hot dog joint promised free dogs to everyone if Caleb Williams tossed four touchdowns against the Dallas Cowboys. He delivered.
Then came the next challenge: head coach Ben Johnson had to take his shirt off in the locker room after a win. Sure enough, following a statement victory over the Eagles, Johnson embraced the moment-shirtless celebration and all.
Now, the Wieners Circle is back at it for round three. This time, the challenge is a little more... unconventional.
If the Bears can dial up a touchdown pass to an offensive lineman-yes, a big man TD-in Saturday night’s game against the Packers, the hot dogs flow once again. It’s wild.
It’s fun. And, honestly, it’s not that far-fetched.
Why? Because if there’s one thing we’ve learned about Ben Johnson, it’s that he loves a good gadget play.
Trick plays, misdirection, unexpected targets-he’s got a flair for the dramatic when the moment calls for it. And this particular challenge?
It fits right into his playbook.
In fact, he already tried to pull it off once.
Back in the first meeting with Green Bay, the Bears were trailing 21-14 in the fourth quarter and knocking on the door at the 1-yard line. That’s when rookie tackle Theo Benedet went in motion-yes, motion-from right to left.
It looked like something was cooking. At the snap, though, Benedet got undercut by a Packers defender before anything could develop.
The belief is that Benedet was the intended target, and there was a strong case for a penalty. No flag.
No touchdown for the big man. But Caleb Williams found Colston Loveland on the next play, so the Bears still got six.
Still, that moment gave us a peek into Johnson’s mindset. He’s not afraid to go off-script.
If the opportunity presents itself-if the defense gives him the look-he’s going to take the shot. And if that means a 300-pound lineman rumbling into the end zone while the city lines up for free hot dogs?
Even better.
Let’s be clear: Johnson isn’t dialing up trick plays for PR stunts. His focus is on winning.
The Bears are in the thick of a playoff push, and Saturday’s game against the Packers carries real weight. A division title is within reach.
That’s the priority. But if the right moment comes and the situation allows it?
Don’t be surprised if he dials up something fun.
What started as a joke has turned into a rallying point for the team and the city. The Wieners Circle’s promotions have become a symbol of this season’s energy-unpredictable, bold, and unapologetically Chicago.
It’s the kind of story that makes football more than just a game. It makes it personal.
It makes it fun.
So keep an eye on the trenches this weekend. Because if a lineman leaks out into the flat, and Caleb Williams looks his way, there’s more than six points on the line. There’s a city full of fans ready to celebrate-with mustard and relish.