Ben Johnson is no stranger to coaching a quarterback without much mobility.
The Chicago Bears head coach led his team to a Week 3 win over the Philadelphia Eagles despite not having Caleb Williams available for the contest. Instead, 38-year-old Case Keenum led the way for the Bears in a 27-7 win to improve the Bears’ record to 2-1.
Keenum sliced up the Eagles defense for 247 passing yards and a pair of touchdowns on a 24/32 clip. He outplayed his Philly counterpart, Jalen Hurts, who went 16/25 for 153 yards. Keenum made for his lack of agility with a lightning-quick trigger on his passes.
After the game, Johnson was asked about scheming for Keenum with Williams sidelined with injury.
Reporter: “How do you go into preparation when you deal with a quarterback who maybe stays in the pocket more buy gets the ball out quick, as opposed to Caleb [Williams] who may be a bit more mobile.”
Johnson: “Well, I’ve got a little history with calling plays with someone not so mobile. … Case came through. He played lights-out.”
Johnson was clearly talking about slow-footed Detroit Lions QB Jared Goff. The two enjoyed great success together when Johnson was the Lions’ offensive coordinator from 2022 to 2024.
Keenum may not have Williams’ ability to keep plays alive, but Johnson found a way to use him effectively enough to beat the Eagles. The Bears also got some help from TJ Edwards and his sleuthing, which led to a game-changing pick on Hurts in the second half.
