The NFL season kicks off Thursday night in Philadelphia, and the Bears begin their 2025 campaign under new head coach Ben Johnson on Monday Night Football against the Minnesota Vikings. After years of disappointment, Chicago fans are hoping Johnson’s arrival marks a turning point. The Vikings have dominated the rivalry recently, winning 8 of the last 10 matchups. Monday’s game isn’t just a divisional clash—it’s a tone-setter for two teams at critical junctures.
Ben Johnson Era Begins
Johnson comes to Chicago with high expectations. He led Detroit’s offense to a league-best 33.2 points per game in 2024 and earned AP NFL Assistant Coach of the Year. His system emphasizes precision, creativity, and adaptability, with heavy use of pre-snap motion and yards after catch. In Detroit, his offense set records for most 40-point games without turnovers and had four players with over 1,000 scrimmage yards.
Now, Johnson inherits a talented Bears roster featuring DJ Moore, Rome Odunze, Cole Kmet, D’Andre Swift, and rookie tight end Colston Loveland. The key will be quarterback Caleb Williams, who showed flashes in his rookie season but must improve his consistency. Johnson wants Williams to reach a 70% completion rate in 2025, up from 62.5%. If Williams takes that leap, Chicago’s offense could be dangerous.
Kevin O’Connell’s Challenge
Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell enters his fourth season with a 34–17 record and two playoff appearances, though he’s still seeking his first postseason win. His offense ranked in the top 10 in scoring last year, but this season presents a new challenge: developing rookie quarterback J.J. McCarthy, who missed all of 2024 with a knee injury.
O’Connell’s system is quarterback-friendly, but McCarthy’s lack of NFL experience could be a liability early. Monday’s game will be his first real test against pro-level speed and complexity.
How the Bears Can Win
Johnson’s offense must start fast. Minnesota’s defense, led by coordinator Brian Flores, thrives on confusion and pressure. Flores called blitzes on over 40% of snaps last season, using stunts and disguised packages to disrupt timing. To counter this, Johnson will rely on quick reads, layered routes, and motion to create mismatches and force the Vikings to adjust.
If Moore, Odunze, and Kmet can get open early, it will force Minnesota to back off its aggressive fronts and give Williams room to operate.
Offensive Line Must Hold
Chicago’s revamped offensive line will be critical. The Bears added Joe Thuney, Jonah Jackson, and Drew Dalman to solidify the interior. Thuney, a perennial All-Pro, posted a 90.4 pass-blocking grade last season. Jackson, familiar with Johnson’s system from Detroit, adds stability at left guard. Dalman, acquired from Atlanta, is known for his quick hands and ability to read defenses.
This trio forms the most competent interior line Chicago has had in years. Their ability to handle Flores’ blitz-heavy scheme will determine how well the offense functions. If they can keep the pocket clean, Williams will have time to execute rhythm throws and hit receivers in stride, maximizing yards after catch.
Defensive Game Plan: Pressure McCarthy
On defense, the Bears must exploit McCarthy’s inexperience. Though talented, he’s never faced an NFL pass rush. Chicago’s front, led by Montez Sweat, Grady Jarrett, and Gervon Dexter Sr., has the tools to generate pressure from multiple angles.
Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen will likely mix zone pressures and disguised coverages to confuse McCarthy and force quick decisions. The Bears ranked in the top 10 in quarterback pressures last season, and they’ll aim to collapse the pocket early and often.
Getting to McCarthy quickly could lead to turnovers and short fields for the offense. If Chicago can win on early downs and force third-and-long situations, they’ll be able to unleash their full defensive arsenal and keep McCarthy off balance.
Momentum Matters
For McCarthy, confidence will be key. A few early hits or mistakes could derail his debut. Conversely, if the Bears allow him time and rhythm, he has the arm talent to make plays. Chicago must set the tone defensively and make McCarthy uncomfortable from the first snap.
Final Thoughts
This Week 1 matchup is more than just a season opener—it’s a measuring stick. The Bears are trying to establish a new identity under Johnson, while the Vikings are betting on a rookie quarterback to lead them forward. For Chicago, success hinges on offensive execution, line protection, and defensive pressure. If they can deliver in those areas, they’ll not only start the season with a win but also send a message that this year might be different. I see the Bears walking out of Soldier Field on Monday night with a win, beating the Vikings at home with a 24-17 victory and starting the year off on the right foot against a hated division foe.
