If you couldn't tell that the Detroit Lions wanted it to stick Ben Johnson in Week 2, perhaps their blistering start to the contest will. The team came out ready to show its ex-offensive coordinator-turned-division rival what he's missing, punctuated by an incredible game-opening drive.
Detroit wasted no time testing Johnson's Chicago Bears defensively, marching down the field for a touchdown to kick things off. The two-time reigning NFC North champions only needed five plays and 2 minutes and 43 seconds to draw first blood. It feels safe to say the Lions entered this matchup with a chip on their shoulders.
Lions send message to Ben Johnson, Bears in opening Week 2 drive
It started with a 34-yard Amon-Ra St. Brown reception on the inaugural play from scrimmage. The pre-snap motion and play-action design gave Detroit quarterback Jared Goff time and a clean pocket to uncork a long ball in the deep middle. It looked like the Lions we've become accustomed to seeing under head coach Dan Campbell's guidance, as Johnson knows all too well.
First play from scrimmage goes for 34 to Amon-Ra!#CHIvsDET 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/0RmguuE9J9
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) September 14, 2025
St. Brown openly discussed the emotions of Johnson's highly anticipated return to Detroit heading into the clash with the Bears. The two-time All-Pro wide receiver made his desire to get the last laugh on the former Lions ally and quickly stood on business. From there, star running back Jahmyr Gibbs handled the rest, for the most part.
Gibbs ostensibly shot out of a cannon following a brutal regular-season opening showing against the Green Bay Packers. The dynamism and explosiveness that have made him one of the premier playmakers in the league were apparent. His first three carries against Johnson's Bears all gained at least five yards, including a pay dirt trip.
Jah boy starts the scoring ⚡#CHIvsDET 📺 FOX pic.twitter.com/op2Y5K0Gzr
— Detroit Lions (@Lions) September 14, 2025
A tight bunch formation resulted in an outside toss to Gibbs and an easy score. This is the deception and creativity the Lions became known for with Campbell at the helm and Johnson by his side. Detroit overpowered the Bears' first-year sideline general with a taste of his own medicine, sending a loud and clear message.
The Lions' showdown with Johnson couldn't have been much better timed for them. It's not like they needed extra motivation after coming out flat to begin the 2025 NFL campaign in Green Bay. Nevertheless, facing a familiar face ostensibly brought the best out of their scoring unit, enabling them to get back on track in emphatic fashion.