A win is always something to celebrate, and for the Detroit Lions, a Thanksgiving victory feels even more special. However, their narrow 23-20 win over the Chicago Bears on Thanksgiving could come with an unexpected downside.
While fans wouldn’t have wanted a loss, the dramatic conclusion of the game—where poor time management cost the Bears a shot at victory—led to swift action from Chicago that might impact Detroit in the long run.
Detroit Lions Coaches Among Top Candidates for Bears’ Head Coach Role
Shortly after the loss to the Lions, the Bears decided to part ways with head coach Matt Eberflus. It was a move that seemed inevitable, especially after the chaotic end to the game, as Chicago’s management appeared eager to make a statement and start fresh.
Now, Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn are being touted as strong contenders to replace Eberflus. The possibility of losing either coordinator to an NFC North rival is certainly concerning for Detroit.
In a November 29 article for SideLion Report, NFL analyst Brad Berreman noted that both Johnson and Glenn are “obvious top candidates” for the Bears’ head coaching position.
“Johnson and Glenn will both have multiple options on the head coaching market, if they choose to explore them,” Berreman wrote. He added that while it’s uncertain “where the Bears rank them in their personal pecking order,” no list of candidates would be “complete without their names.”
It’s worth acknowledging that the Bears likely planned to dismiss Eberflus regardless of the Thanksgiving outcome. However, if there was any lingering consideration to retain him, the loss to Detroit likely sealed his fate.
Lions OC Ben Johnson Seen as a Key Player in Coaching Market
In a November 29 feature, Adam Jahns of The Athletic also identified Johnson and Glenn as two of 15 potential candidates for the Bears’ head coaching job. Jahns highlighted Johnson as a particularly attractive prospect and questioned whether the Chicago role would appeal to him.
“No candidate should have more leverage on the market than Johnson, who is the architect and play caller of Detroit’s high-powered offense,” Jahns wrote. He emphasized that Johnson is likely to be selective, recalling how he withdrew from head coaching opportunities with the Seattle Seahawks and Washington Commanders last year.
Despite this, Johnson might have an interest in the Bears’ job. Back in October, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer revealed on ESPN 1000 in Chicago that Johnson had shown interest in the Bears’ head coaching position last year. However, Eberflus’ retention at the time prevented it from materializing.
What Happened in the Final Moments of Lions vs. Bears?
The Bears’ late-game clock management woes were on full display during the Thanksgiving matchup. With 32 seconds remaining in regulation, the Bears’ offense appeared unaware of the ticking clock.
Quarterback Caleb Williams frantically signaled for the team to speed up, but by the time they snapped the ball, only a few seconds remained. A desperate downfield pass attempt ran out the clock, handing the Lions the win and leaving Chicago with a glaring mistake to reflect upon.
