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Ben Johnson taking perfect approach to difficult Eagles matchup

Ben Johnson praised the defending champions without revealing how the Bears plan to attack them
ByNick Halden
Sep 20, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson directs the team during the second half against there Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
Sep 20, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson directs the team during the second half against there Minnesota Vikings at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

It isn't a secret how much love and respect the Chicago Bears have for head coach Ben Johnson. The young head coach has the perfect mix of confidence and leadership to guide the franchise as it prepares to deal with the loss of Caleb Williams in a difficult matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. There simply is no denying that if there is any offensive mind capable of finding a way to surprise fans and put together a competitive effort even without their starting quarterback, it's Ben Johnson.

This leads us to look at Johnson's comments ahead of Monday Night Football and what approach the coach is choosing to take. Chicago is going to be pleased with Johnson's comments, as the coach is working the clear angle of praising the Eagles and attempting not to give the franchise any ounce of ammo in hopes that either the lethargic offense or simply Williams not being on the field will give the Bears a chance to catch Philadelphia off guard.

"It's a good football team, Sirianni always has those guys ready to go, and year in, year out, they're Super Bowl contenders. I know we'll be excited about getting this taste out of our mouths. Monday Night Football, Soldier Field again, really good opponent, there's a lot playing into this game. Looking forward to getting into the tape, putting a nice, strong plan together, and having our guys playing fast and sound football"
Ben Johnson

It is a common approach for a head coach and not at all surprising that this is how Johnson is choosing to attack the upcoming decision. Opting to build up the opposing team while focusing on platitudes with your own team is exactly what you can expect from Johnson when it comes to a team that isn't a rival and clearly is a difficult matchup for the Bears.

There appears to simply be the question of whether or not it will be Case Keenum or Tyson Bagent taking the field in Week 3. Having the extra day of rest does leave Williams as a wildcard, but it seems unlikely the Eagles will opt to push a return.

Bears head coach Ben Johnson offering the perfect sentiment ahead of Monday Night Football matchup

Keeping Williams out makes a great deal of sense when you consider how talented the Philadelphia defensive line is. Pushing the quarterback to make a return against this level of talent might be ill-advised. No question, the Bears can afford to drop this game and still control their destiny the rest of the way.

This isn't meant to indicate that Johnson isn't going to put his best foot forward with a game plan, but rather looking at the bigger picture the head coach understands what this game means. Fans should expect an aggressive and creative approach with there clearly being the hope the Eagles aren't as focused as they would be if Williams were on the field.

Playing Monday night will afford Chicago fans the ability as well to sit back and watch the rest of the NFC North while also getting more injury information. No question, Johnson is handling the situation perfectly.

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