Being a head coach isn't all about the Xs and Os. It also isn't about ordering players around and telling them what to do. Any great coach will tell you the biggest winners are the ones who master psychology. They understand how to manage the mood of the locker room. When they sense guys need a heavy dose of intensity, they schedule live sessions in practice. However, there are also times when guys need a chance of pace, something to alleviate the grind of training camp. Nobody can argue that Ben Johnson can maintain discipline with his Chicago Bears players. What wasn't certain was whether he could help them have a little fun.
He answered that question in the most unexpected way possible. People have watched Bears practices for years, and plenty of interesting things have happened in that time. However, it is safe to assume that what Johnson did at the end of practice on Thursday was completely new. On the last play of team drills, he hatched a surprise. The offense and defense would switch sides. That means offensive players would play defense and defensive players would play offense. If the defense could pick up a 1st down, the offense had to do up-downs. If the offense prevented the 1st, the defense must do them.
Caleb Williams found cornerback Nick McCloud on a rollout for the first down, triggering a huge celebration from defensive players.
Ben Johnson clearly has the players feeling energized.
What stands out the most from all of this is the confidence guys exude. Both offensive and defensive players seem more sure of themselves and the team's direction. Ben Johnson has fostered an environment of accountability and swagger. He demands perfection on every snap, intent on ensuring everybody knows their responsibility. Competition is everywhere. Johnson doesn't aim to make the team better than last season. He aims to win, and win immediately. Players should be doing the same. Such a mentality is a far cry from what Matt Eberflus brought to the table. Guys are going hard every day and being encouraged to do so. At the same time, Johnson keeps them on their toes with little shakeups like this. No wonder guys already love him.
