Bears coach Ben Johnson demonstrating knack for finding answers, which will be tested by Packers

Bears head coach Ben Johnson looks on during the game against the Browns on Dec. 14, 2025, at Soldier Field.Patrick McDermott/Getty Images

The Ben Johnson Effect is real, but it still lacks the validation that matters most in these parts — beating the Packers.

Johnson’s Bears are facing a team that has had their number for most of the last 20 years — and most of the post-Ditka era, for that matter. The Packers always seem to have an answer against the Bears, especially in big games. If it’s not Aaron Rodgers -tormenting them, it’s some unsung hero — Erik Walden, Jarrett Boykin, James Starks or Ty Montgomery. Brett Hundley once beat the Bears when Rodgers was out.

Even victories have been…