The Detroit Lions are emerging from their bye week with a 5-2 record and currently hold the No. 1 spot in the NFL Power Rankings for Week 9, including the ranking from the league’s official site. The team’s effort throughout the 2025-26 season has been evident, and that persistence is showing results, with quarterback Jared Goff and his teammates preparing to face the 3-4 Minnesota Vikings with renewed focus and optimism.

So, what’s the latest on former Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and his stint with the Chicago Bears? Ben who? Let’s just say that things have been far from smooth lately.

J ohnson departed for Chicago shortly after the Lions’ heartbreaking 45-31 loss to the Washington Commanders on January 18, a move that shocked Detroit’s fan base. While it’s understandable that he was pursuing career growth in the NFL, leaving immediately after that defeat —and joining a division rival no less — left a bad taste in many mouths.

Fast forward to Sunday, October 26: Johnson was visibly frustrated after his Bears fell 30-16 to the Baltimore Ravens. Notably, the Ravens were without quarterback Lamar Jackson, yet the Bears still couldn’t capitalize. Chicago was outscored 16-0 across the second and third quarters, committed 11 penalties for 79 yards, and converted just one touchdown on three red-zone drives.

“Give Baltimore a lot of credit,” Johnson said after the loss, per the team’s official website. “They played tough, as expected. They were hungry and determined, and I thought we’d match that energy better. We fell short.”

Johnson didn’t spare quarterback Caleb Williams from criticism either. When asked about the final drive of the first half, he referenced Williams’ intentional grounding penalty, saying, “I thought we had a chance to put points on the board before the half. That was a missed opportunity.” Regarding the interception Williams threw, Johnson added, “I didn’t get a clear look at it. I’ll have to review the film, but I think there was another option he could’ve taken.”

Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions are thriving.

Entering Week 9, the Lions were ranked the top team in the league by the NFL’s official website. In a Tuesday, October 28 feature, Eric Edholm noted that “it will be interesting to see if the Lions make any moves before the November 4 trade deadline.” He added that “the NFC North isn’t quite a two-team race yet, but Detroit and Green Bay are clearly setting the pace.” Even if no trades happen, the Lions look well-positioned for the season’s second half.

Alternative Fix Sports also placed the Lions at No. 1, writing, “The Lions didn’t luck into the top spot — they earned it with grit, heart, and a swagger that sets them apart.”