Detroit Lions vs Chicago Bears Picks and Predictions September 14th 2025

Bears coach Ben Johnson aims for first win against former team Lions

The matchup between the Chicago Bears and Detroit Lions carries extra drama as Ben Johnson, the Bears’ new head coach, faces his former team. Johnson, who served as Detroit’s offensive coordinator last season, is tasked with turning Chicago into a contender while proving he can outsmart his old colleagues.

Score VIP Betting Insights

Your First Month Only $9!

Get Free Trial

The Bears looked competitive in Week 1, leading Minnesota 17-6 before collapsing late in a 27-24 loss. Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams showed flashes of brilliance with 210 passing yards and 58 rushing yards, but mistakes in the fourth quarter left Chicago searching for its first win. Johnson admits the transition is ongoing but insists his vision for the Bears will take shape.

Lions Struggling Without Their Playcaller

The Lions fell flat in their opener, losing 27-13 at Green Bay. Jared Goff threw for 31 completions but managed just one explosive play over 20 yards. Detroit’s offensive line had trouble protecting him, and the usually reliable rushing tandem of Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery was held to only 44 yards on 20 carries.

Dan Campbell was quick to address the run game struggles. He emphasized fundamentals—footwork, focus, and execution—while assuring fans that improvements are on the way. Detroit averaged over 30 points per game last season, but the new era without Johnson has started slowly.

Tale of the Tape

Here’s how the Bears and Lions stack up heading into Week 2:

Johnson’s Decision and the Division Fallout

Johnson’s move to a division rival was met with mixed reactions in Detroit. Some fans felt betrayed, but Johnson said the decision was about opportunity for himself and his family. He admits saying goodbye to friends in Detroit was tough but insists Chicago was the right fit.

For three quarters against Minnesota, Johnson’s debut looked promising. The Bears had energy, creativity, and a spark reminiscent of Detroit’s 2024 offense before collapsing late. Johnson will look to avoid another second-half letdown when his team steps into Ford Field.

Lions Players Downplay Coordinator Narrative

Despite the offseason coaching carousel, Jared Goff says the Lions are not dwelling on the past. To him, the talk around losing Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn is just outside noise. The focus is on execution, not nostalgia.

Detroit’s defense will need to regroup after giving up big plays to the Packers. Linebacker Jack Campbell (ankle) and tackle Taylor Decker (shoulder) missed practice Wednesday, while the Bears are also battling injuries with Grady Jarrett (knee) and Kyler Gordon (hamstring) sidelined.

Betting Lean and Matchup Outlook

Oddsmakers have made Detroit the early favorite, but the narrative is more about whether Johnson can outcoach his old boss. The Bears showed flashes of offensive potential, while the Lions are still adjusting to life without their former playcaller.

Projected Score: Lions 24, Bears 20