Ben Johnson’s Old-School Answer On Resting Starters Is Straight From The John Madden Playbook

Ben Johnson had an interesting decision going into the season finale against the Detroit Lions. The only true incentive to play the game was clinching the #2 seed in the playoffs. At worst, the Chicago Bears would secure the #3 seed, which would guarantee them a home game either way. Perhaps it might be more prudent to give his starters the week off to rest. Philadelphia Eagles coach Nick Sirianni, who also had a shot at the #2 seed, opted to rest his guys. Johnson did not. He went for the win.

Ultimately, the Bears fell to Detroit 19-16. The effort meant little since Philadelphia also lost, handing Chicago the #2 seed. After the game, Johnson showed zero regrets about his decision.

That specific wording is interesting. “Some teams rest their starters. We don’t. We play football.” If that doesn’t sound familiar, it should. Such a philosophy may not seem normal these days, but it was one championed by the late Hall of Fame head coach John Madden. He was a firm believer that you should always look to win, regardless of potential outcomes elsewhere. Never cheat the game.

Ben Johnson continues to show what his mindset will be.

That is to win every single week. He doesn’t care about what happens elsewhere. His sole focus is crushing the opposition in front of him. In his mind, nothing provides more momentum to a football team than winning. Resting the starters ahead of the most important stretch of games in professional football is anathema to him. He’d much rather have them sharp and battle-tested. Injuries don’t scare him. Every team is banged up this time of year. His decision appears to have been the right one, too.

The Bears came out flat in that game on Sunday. They lacked urgency and sharpness. It wasn’t until the 4th quarter that they managed to circle the wagons and make a charge. They didn’t get the win, but Ben Johnson certainly got his validation. He didn’t feel the team was ready for primetime. That game served as proof. Now he’ll spend the whole week reminding them how unprepared they were. By the time of kickoff on Saturday against Green Bay, those players will be agitated and hungry.

Madden would’ve been proud.