The NFC North rivalry just took a new turn, and it is not even game day. During what many expected to be a normal press conference, newly appointed Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson stirred the pot with a pointed comment aimed at Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur. What seemed like a casual remark quickly raised eyebrows, adding an unexpected layer of drama to one of the NFL’s most historic divisions.
His remark quickly went viral, with fans and analysts alike speculating if there was some real tension brewing between them.
Matt LaFleur Responds to Ben Johnson’s Dig
At first, many believed Johnson and LaFleur had a friendly, competitive relationship. His comment about enjoying “beating Matt LaFleur twice a year” seemed like typical NFL trash talk, where coaches often spar verbally to rile up the competition. However, as time passed and LaFleur remained silent, it became clear that this might not just be playful banter; it could be a sign of a deeper rivalry.
The sting of Johnson’s words was heightened by the fact that these two had no personal history before now. While LaFleur’s Packers and Johnson’s Detroit Lions met in the NFC North for years, LaFleur and Johnson themselves had not directly crossed paths as head coaches until Johnson’s arrival in Chicago.
When asked whether he had any beef with Johnson, LaFleur responded: “I don’t know Ben Johnson. I respect him as a football coach. He did a nice job. I thought the press conference was interesting. I don’t have beef with him. I don’t get into all that stuff,” said the Packers head coach.
His response, calm and measured, seemed to downplay any tension while still subtly acknowledging the public jab. Whether this becomes a full-blown coaching rivalry or just stays as background noise remains to be seen.
Is there beef in the NFC North? pic.twitter.com/znOETm1qO6
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It’s clear that LaFleur is trying to keep his team’s attention on the season ahead rather than indulging in off-field theatrics. But behind that cool exterior, there’s no doubt that LaFleur will be gearing up to make sure his Packers are ready to deliver a statement when they meet Johnson’s Bears squad.
It is no longer just about Packers vs. Bears; it’s LaFleur vs. Johnson. The tension is palpable, and the next time these two teams square off, expect the intensity to be at an all-time high. The NFC North just got a whole lot more interesting.