The NFL's big reunion - can Goff keep Lions dream alive on his own?

Jared Goff reunites with former offensive architect Ben Johnson as the Lions visit the Bears. With Frank Ragnow retired and the run game struggling, Detroit could be less explosive early; bettors might lean toward the Bears' defense, back Goff under 260.5 passing yards, or consider the Bears +spread in a low-scoring contest.

Goff's First Reunion with Ben Johnson Adds Intrigue to Week Two

Jared Goff faces the offensive mastermind who helped revive his career when the Detroit Lions visit Ben Johnson's Chicago Bears. Johnson transformed Detroit into one of the NFL's most creative offenses, and this matchup will test whether the Lions can recreate that explosiveness without him now leading Chicago.

Offseason Blow and Week One Wake-Up Call

Detroit lost Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow to retirement in the offseason, forcing Graham Glasgow to step into the middle of a reshaped line alongside Christian Mahogany and Tate Ratledge. The Lions' vaunted running attack sputtered in Week One, with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery combining for just 34 touches and failing to reach 100 yards. Detroit fell to the Green Bay Packers despite Goff completing 31 of 39 passes for 225 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

Play-Calling, Play-Action and the Line

The offensive identity that thrived under Johnson relied on early run establishment and play-action to free up downfield passing. With Johnson now the opponent and a retooled offensive line, Detroit must reassert its physical ground game and resurrect play-action to put Goff in comfortable downfield situations. If the line can’t dominate early, the offense risks becoming one-dimensional and easier for defenses to scheme against.

What This Means for Bettors

Johnson’s intimate knowledge of Goff’s tendencies gives Chicago a strategic edge; combined with the Lions’ offensive line changes and subdued rushing production, this suggests a higher probability of a contained Detroit attack. Punters may consider markets such as Goff under his typical passing-yard prop, Lions team total unders, or backing the Bears to cover a modest spread. Expect a chess match early as both coaches adjust.

Stakes and Outlook

Detroit’s Super Bowl aspirations hinge on how quickly the offense adapts. The Bears, seeking their first win after a narrow Week One loss, will aim to exploit matchup familiarity and defensive opportunities. This game will reveal whether the Lions can maintain their offensive ceiling without the architect who helped build it.

Jared Goff is gearing up for his first reunion with the offensive mastermind that helped him resurrect his NFL career as his Detroit Lions face Ben Johnson's Chicago Bears this Sunday.

Sky Sports