The upcoming NFL season promises to be fascinating for the Detroit Lions, as they begin a new chapter without two of their top coordinators. Offensive mastermind Ben Johnson is now the head coach of the Chicago Bears, while Aaron Glenn has also departed. Fortunately for Detroit, head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes remain at the helm, providing some stability during this transition.

Still, Johnson’s move to one of the Lions’ fiercest division rivals adds a dramatic twist. The Bears and Lions already share an intense NFC North rivalry, but Johnson’s presence on the opposite sideline makes those matchups even more must-watch.

Johnson Jokes About Facing the Lions

Since taking over in Chicago, Johnson has been a popular name in interviews. Inevitably, reporters continue to press him about what it will be like to coach against his former team. While Johnson insists his focus is on building up the Bears, he hasn’t shied away from lightheartedly addressing the narrative.

In a recent conversation with Danny Parkins on Fox Sports’ First Things First (August 25), Johnson was asked about the infamous “Tush Push” and whether he might unveil a surprise playbook wrinkle when facing Campbell and the Lions. Johnson grinned and simply said, “Maybe.” That one-word response was enough to stir excitement and even a little unease among Lions fans.

Quickly steering away from giving too much away, Johnson instead reminisced about a gadget play he frequently used in Detroit. He explained that the play had been effective multiple times, including in a preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills, where it led to a touchdown.

Campbell’s Fierce Response

Of course, Dan Campbell was also asked about what it will be like to go head-to-head with his former offensive coordinator. Speaking with WXYZ’s Brad Galli, Campbell downplayed any personal storyline, saying he’ll approach the games against Johnson’s Bears the same as he would against any opponent. Still, in typical Campbell fashion, he made sure to emphasize Detroit’s mentality heading into the matchups:

“I want to beat them, we want to beat them, I’m sure they want to beat us. But no matter who we’re facing, we’re out for blood.”

Despite his competitive fire, Campbell clarified that he and Johnson remain on good terms. The two even crossed paths a couple of times during the offseason.

Circle the Date

The first meeting between the Bears and Lions will take place in Week 2, on September 14. Given the rivalry, the history, and now the personal connections, this showdown is shaping up to be one of the most entertaining early-season games.

Get your popcorn ready—Johnson vs. Campbell is going to be must-see football.