**Bears Head Coach Ben Johnson Discusses Defensive Struggles and Partnership with Dennis Allen**
Chicago Bears first-year head coach Ben Johnson entered the role with little experience on the defensive side of the ball, which is a key reason he brought in defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. Now responsible for every phase of the football team as head coach, Johnson has leaned on Allen to lead the defense this season.
A longtime offensive assistant, Johnson hired Allen—who is in his 15th season as a coordinator or head coach—to manage the defense. Despite this partnership, the Bears’ defense has faced significant challenges this year.
### Defensive Struggles Despite Takeaways
Interestingly, the Bears lead the NFL in takeaways this season, but several other defensive metrics paint a less optimistic picture:
– The defense has allowed 5.3 yards per carry, ranking 30th in the NFL.
– Opposing quarterbacks have posted a passer rating of 98.6, which ranks 21st league-wide.
– Despite the presence of Montez Sweat, the pass rush has generated only 14 sacks, placing them 25th overall.
– In the red zone, opponents have scored touchdowns on 64% of their trips, also ranking 25th in the NFL.
These struggles were particularly evident in the most recent game, when backup quarterback Tyler “Snoop” Huntley and the Baltimore Ravens scored 30 points against the Bears.
### Ben Johnson on Working with Dennis Allen and the Defense
Speaking at Friday’s press availability, Johnson addressed his role overseeing the defense and his collaboration with Allen.
“Dennis and I spend a lot of time together,” Johnson said. “I’m not necessarily in their install meetings because I’m a little more involved with the offense in their install meetings. Where we are now in the season, it’s a little more focus on the offense and making sure that side of the ball is good.”
He expressed confidence in Allen’s capabilities, noting, “Dennis has a great grasp on his system, so I’m not gonna micromanage that. He’s done it at a high level for a long time and that’s part of the reason he came here.”
Johnson also shared that he sometimes contributes ideas to the defense. “I’ve got ideas that I’ll spit ball,” he said. “Sometimes Dennis will implement the idea or not. It’s good for my education as well; it helps me grow as a coach.”
He emphasized his supportive role and a willingness to challenge ideas at times. “I’m there to help support and I do like to challenge occasionally and learn. I do think the longer I’m in this role, the more in tune I am with bringing all three phases together so that we can play complementary football.”
### Bears Aim to Make a Statement Against the Bengals
Looking ahead to Sunday’s matchup, the Bears (4-3) face the Cincinnati Bengals (3-5). While Chicago ranks second in the NFL on third down, allowing conversions on just 31.9% of attempts, they cannot rely solely on takeaways for defensive success—turnovers often come down to luck.
With Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow on injured reserve, veteran Joe Flacco has taken over and impressively has not thrown an interception or lost a fumble in three starts. If Flacco is unable to play due to a sprained AC joint, the Bears’ chances of generating takeaways could improve against Jake Browning, who has thrown eight interceptions this season. However, Bengals head coach Zac Taylor is expected to tailor the game plan to minimize turnover risks.
Ultimately, the Bears’ best path to defensive success lies in shutting down the run and forcing Cincinnati’s quarterback into third-and-long situations. This straightforward strategy plays to Chicago’s strengths and could be the key to controlling the game.
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