Solving The Bears' Offensive Woes: Ben Johnson's Targeting Plan

David

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Post on Sep 22, 2025

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Solving the Bears' Offensive Woes: Ben Johnson's Targeting Plan

The Chicago Bears offense sputtered in 2022, leaving fans and analysts alike searching for answers. Enter new offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, tasked with revitalizing a unit that ranked near the bottom of the league in several key categories. His approach? A laser-focused targeting plan, designed to maximize the strengths of Justin Fields and unlock the potential of the Bears' receiving corps. But is it enough to transform the Bears into a playoff contender?

Johnson's Philosophy: Precision over Volume

Unlike some offensive schemes that prioritize volume and yards after catch, Johnson's philosophy emphasizes precision targeting. This means identifying and exploiting favorable matchups, using play designs that create advantageous situations for Fields and his receivers. This strategy minimizes wasted plays and increases the likelihood of big gains. Instead of relying on sheer volume, Johnson aims for higher efficiency and fewer negative plays. This shift is a marked departure from the previous regime and represents a significant change in offensive philosophy for the Bears.

Key Targets and Roles:

Johnson's plan hinges on effectively utilizing the Bears' existing talent. While specific details remain closely guarded, several players are expected to play crucial roles:

• Justin Fields: The undisputed leader, Fields' dual-threat abilities are central to Johnson's scheme. Expect more designed runs, but crucially, plays that utilize Fields' arm strength and accuracy to exploit deep throws.
• DJ Moore: The prized free-agent acquisition, Moore's speed and route-running prowess should provide Fields with a reliable deep threat. Johnson’s scheme will likely feature many plays designed to isolate Moore against weaker cornerbacks.
• Chase Claypool: Claypool's size and physicality offer a contrasting element to Moore's speed. Expect Johnson to utilize Claypool in red-zone situations and other high-leverage plays.
• Cole Kmet: Kmet's development as a reliable pass-catching tight end is crucial. His ability to work both in the middle of the field and stretch the seams will be integral to opening up opportunities for other receivers.

Addressing Past Offensive Issues:

Last season's offensive struggles stemmed from several factors, including inconsistent pass protection, dropped passes, and a lack of explosive plays. Johnson's targeting plan addresses these issues directly. By focusing on high-percentage throws and minimizing risk, he aims to reduce turnovers and improve the Bears’ overall efficiency. The improved offensive line, a key offseason investment, should also contribute significantly to this improvement.

The X-Factor: Offensive Line Performance

The success of Johnson's targeting plan is heavily reliant on the performance of the offensive line. Providing Fields with adequate time to throw and creating running lanes for him will be paramount. The Bears’ significant offseason investment in the offensive line suggests a commitment to protecting Fields and establishing a strong running game, a crucial element in making the passing game more effective.

Conclusion: A Promising but Uncertain Future

Ben Johnson's targeting plan offers a fresh and exciting approach to the Bears’ offensive woes. Its success will depend on several factors, including the execution of the offensive line, the development of young players, and the overall health of the team. While the future remains uncertain, Johnson's strategic approach suggests a potentially significant improvement in the Bears' offensive output in the 2023 season. The upcoming season will be a critical test of his vision and a pivotal moment for the Chicago Bears. Will his plan translate into wins? Only time will tell. But the early indications suggest a promising, if still untested, strategy.