Matt LaFleur presented with a golden chance to respond to Bears HC Ben Johnson's disrespectful message

The Green Bay Packers have dominated their divisional matchups this season, including a sweep of the Detroit Lions for the first time since 2020. Now, the spotlight turns to the upcoming clashes with the Chicago Bears, who the Packers will face twice within the next three weeks.

Despite Green Bay winning 10 of the last 11 meetings against Chicago, the upcoming games promise a different challenge. Last seasons sole Bears victory occurred in a late-season, low-stakes matchup with Malik Willis starting. However, under the leadership of new head coach Ben Johnson, the Bears have shown greater consistency and are actively competing for the NFC North title.

The tension between the teams traces back to Johnsons early remarks after taking over in Chicago. In January, he made a pointed comment about the Packers head coach: Im gonna be quite frank with you. I kind of enjoyed beating Matt LaFleur twice a year. This statement referenced the Lions sweep of Green Bay last year, during Johnsons tenure as Detroits offensive coordinator.

LaFleur responded with professionalism, acknowledging Johnsons intent to energize Bears fans. Im sure hes playing to their fans a little bit. It is what it is. Im not gonna lose too much sleep because of that, LaFleur said at the time. He later emphasized that he doesnt know Johnson personally, making the remark feel somewhat excessive. I dont know Ben Johnson. Do I have beef? Uh, I dont know Ben Johnson. I respect him as a football coach, he did a nice job. Its not tight, Im not tight. I thought it was interesting, LaFleur added.

This Sunday, the Packers and Bears meet for the first time in the 2025 season, with a rematch scheduled in Week 16 on a Saturday. Both games carry significant weight for the NFC North standings. While Green Bay is already motivated, Johnsons comments provide additional inspiration to fuel the Packers competitive fire.

Related: Christian Wilkins leads potential replacements for the Packers following Devonte Wyatts serious injury.

This article originally appeared on A to Z Sports on December 1, 2025, in the NFL section. Add A to Z Sports as a preferred source here.

Author: Sophia Brooks