UPDATE: The Chicago Bears faced a devastating 52-21 defeat against the Detroit Lions on September 14, 2025, dropping their season record to 0-2. Head Coach Ben Johnson is determined to turn things around, but signs of competitiveness are alarmingly absent.
In a game that showcased the Bears’ defensive struggles, quarterback Caleb Williams showed some improvement, yet the team was overwhelmed by the Lions’ offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff, who threw for 334 yards and five touchdowns. The Bears’ defense has now allowed a league-high 79 points in just two games, raising serious concerns about their ability to compete in the NFC North.
With the Cowboys set to visit Soldier Field for a crucial game on Sunday at 3:25 p.m., the Bears’ situation is becoming increasingly dire. Johnson, who took over the coaching position in January, acknowledged the need for improvement, stating, “We got outgained by a significant number of yards,” and emphasized that the team must raise their play style to meet expectations.
The upcoming match against Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys poses another significant challenge. Johnson’s predecessor, former Bears coach Matt Eberflus, is now the defensive coordinator for Dallas, creating added pressure. The Bears must find a way to generate a pass rush or risk another embarrassing defeat.
In the wake of the Lions game, defensive coordinator Dennis Allen faces intensified scrutiny as injuries pile up, leaving the Bears vulnerable. Without key cornerbacks Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon, the secondary struggled against Detroit, allowing Goff to exploit their weaknesses.
Johnson remains calm amidst the turmoil, asserting that his team will focus on their core values of work ethic, selflessness, and poise. “We’re going to find out this week at practice who wants to practice hard,” he said, signaling a return to fundamentals as they prepare for the Cowboys.
With the Bears’ recent history of poor performance in division games—holding a record of 3-17 since General Manager Ryan Poles was hired—urgency is palpable. The Bears have not been above .500 in their division since 2019, and fans are growing increasingly frustrated.
As the pressure mounts, the team must rally and demonstrate a commitment to improvement. Johnson’s leadership will be put to the test as the Bears prepare for what could be a defining moment in their season. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely; a victory against the Cowboys could help restore some hope, while another loss would only deepen the despair surrounding this struggling franchise.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
