Image Source: ESPN
In recent news from ESPN, the Chicago Bears’ head coach, Ben Johnson, has publicly expressed his dissatisfaction with the team’s offensive performance during the preseason. With the highly anticipated 2025 NFL season just around the corner, Johnson’s remarks underscore crucial issues that the team needs to address. The struggles were particularly evident during the Bears’ last preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs, where the offense displayed alarming signs of inconsistency.
Chicago Bears’ Preseason Struggles
During the third preseason game, held at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, the momentum built from a strong prior week quickly faded. The Bears managed a dramatic comeback victory, defeating the Chiefs 29-27. However, Coach Johnson was quick to highlight that the initial stages of the game revealed a ‘sloppy’ execution from his offense, stating, “Offensively, the first two possessions were really sloppy football, and that has plagued us in and out of camp so far.”
Quarterback Caleb Williams, a key player for the Bears, faced challenges from the outset. Williams and the offensive starters struggled significantly, compiling only 22 total yards on their first two drives, both of which ended in punts. Johnson’s concerns were validated when the first play of their opening drive saw Williams fumble an exchange, accentuating the issues the team faced throughout the game.
Criticism and Visibility from the Coaching Staff
The Bears’ offensive hiccups were not just limited to the fumble. There was a crucial false start from tight end Colston Loveland that pushed the team into a difficult second-and-long situation, limiting their chances to gain momentum. Johnson remarked that the first quarter’s performance was “not good enough,” emphasizing that the team needs to improve quickly to avoid being left behind when the regular season begins.
Despite these challenges, Williams managed to bounce back later in the game, completing 11 of his 15 passes for 113 yards and a touchdown. This performance came after some shaky starts, showcasing his potential to lead the Bears effectively. Williams remarked on his offensive unit’s issues, saying, “We all see it in the sense of we all see what we can be.” This acknowledgment of potential, coupled with past performances, hints at a squad that may just need more time to gel.
Future Outlook for the Bears
As the Bears gear up for their season opener against the Minnesota Vikings on September 8, Johnson indicated that tape analysis of the game would be essential for rectifying their mistakes. “We have to make sure that we start faster on offense and on defense,” Johnson noted, highlighting a critical area for improvement. With a week and a half remaining until kickoff, the coaching staff will likely consider scaling back their offensive plans based on the recent game’s shortcomings.
With a mixture of players looking to make their mark and veterans asserting their leadership, the Bears hope to transform these early-season struggles into a stepping stone toward success in the upcoming season. Johnson’s commitment to focusing on improvement appears unwavering, as the team prepares to set the tone for their 2025 campaign.
FAQ
What were the main concerns expressed by Ben Johnson following the preseason game?
Ben Johnson criticized the Bears’ offense for being ‘sloppy’ and emphasized the need for significant improvement ahead of the regular season.
How did Caleb Williams perform in the preseason finale against the Chiefs?
Caleb Williams completed 11 of 15 passes for 113 yards and one touchdown but initially struggled with two drives totaling only 22 yards.
When does the Chicago Bears’ regular season start?
The Bears are set to open their regular season against the Minnesota Vikings on September 8, 2025.
What strategies might the Bears employ to improve their offensive performance?
The Bears may consider simplifying their offensive strategies and closely analyzing game tape to correct mistakes and enhance player performance.
What was notable about the Bears’ comeback victory against the Chiefs?
The Bears executed a dramatic comeback, overcoming a 17-point deficit to secure a 29-27 victory, showcasing resilience and potential even amid earlier struggles.
