Following the 52-21 defeat of the Chicago Bears by the Detroit Lions on Sunday, head coach Ben Johnson was confronted with a query that appeared to be intended to cause him pain: Did his former boss, Dan Campbell, attempt to increase the score late in the game?
Johnson did not hesitate to respond to the suggestion.
“What is expected of him?” “Yes, he could have kicked a field goal,” Johnson stated. “They do not attempt to score field goals.” They pursue it aggressively in that location. That is his occupation.
The comment was made in reference to a fourth-down play that occurred late in the fourth quarter. The Lions chose to maintain their offense on the field rather than yielding for three points. Campbell’s confidence was further bolstered by Jared Goff’s subsequent touchdown strike, which further exacerbated the already significant margin of victory.
Johnson is more familiar with Campbell’s operations than the majority of individuals, as he spent years in Detroit working alongside him before departing to assume the role of head coach for the Bears this offseason. He was not about to interpret the decisions of his former colleague as anything other than business as usual.
Johnson’s absence was already distressing. However, he ensured that he maintained a dignified demeanor in response to Campbell’s unwavering stance.
In conclusion,
Ben Johnson explicitly stated that he does not subscribe to the narrative that Campbell was attempting to humiliate him. If anything, he served as a reminder that the Lions’ head coach has maintained a consistent approach since his arrival in Detroit, refusing to attempt field goals when touchdowns are at stake. The Bears are once again reminded of the significant distance they must travel to regain ground in the NFC North.
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