Ben Johnson turned his Madden fantasy into reality with the Bears
Ben Johnson, born in 1986, grew up in the heyday of the Madden era. Johnson’s signature style of play calling has always seemed heavily indebted to the way someone would play video game football, with aggressive fourth down calls, intricate passing designs, and a love of mobile quarterbacks. The Chicago Bears head coach couldn’t hide […]
Ben Johnson, born in 1986, grew up during the peak of the Madden era. When asked if he ever played Madden as a younger man, Johnson, now the Chicago Bears' head coach, smiled and said he enjoyed taking bad teams in franchise mode and building them up. Johnson grew up simulating Madden dynasties, making trades, managing the salary cap, and throwing darts in the draft during his teenage years.
He became known for his aggressive fourth down calls, intricate passing designs, and love of mobile quarterbacks. Johnson previously served as the Detroit Lions' coordinator but declined an offer from the Washington Commanders to return to Detroit for another year. This decision led to the Bears hiring him following a disastrous season with Matt Eberflus.
Johnson has been instrumental in the Bears' success, leading them to a shocking 27-7 win over the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday night, even with a rookie quarterback in play.
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