The Green Bay Packers had this game circled on their calendars ever since last January. That was when Ben Johnson was introduced as the new head coach of the Chicago Bears. Johnson spoke glowingly of Dan Campbell and Kevin O'Connell, two NFC North head coaches, but when it came to Matt LaFleur, Johnson couldn't help himself but say that he enjoys beating him twice a year.
It was a completely out-of-left-field moment. LaFleur said on numerous occasions that he was taken aback by Johnson's comments, considering they don't know each other well. Sure, it could be a case of Johnson ingratiating himself into the Bears-Packers rivalry.