The Detroit Lions welcomed back former offensive coordinator and current Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson in the rudest possible fashion. Blowing the Bears off the field wasn't enough for fans in attendance. Things had to be taken a step further with a "F*** Ben Johnson" chant breaking out throughout the stadium. It was instantly called out by quarterback Jared Goff, who understandably still has a lot of love for the former OC. There simply wasn't a reason for this level of disrespect for a coach who was so pivotal to Detroit's turnaround.
Goff isn't the only one who feels a certain way about the chant, with star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown voicing his thoughts on the St. Brown podcast. St. Brown talked about how Johnson had done so much for the Lions and turning around the offense, and how the offense was at the top of the league only months ago. Booing wasn't taken offense to, but St. Brown felt that the chant was far too much for a coach who accomplished so much under Dan Campbell the past few seasons.
Amon-Ra St. Brown Calls Out Lions Fans for Disrespectful Ben Johnson Chant
Booing can be viewed as a sign of respect, with all sports having a tradition of booing rivals or respected players and coaches. However, chanting the words fans selected as Johnson was getting blown off the field by his old team is a step too far. Players are taking care of business, and booing sent a message of frustration and respect to the former OC. A coach who had previously chosen to stay in Detroit and attempt to bring in a Super Bowl despite having head coaching opportunities.
Johnson put himself second behind the team in an attempt to push the group beyond expectations. While this didn't work out as planned, it is a clear example of why this coach still deserves respect from the fan base. If you want to boo or celebrate the blowout win, these are completely understandable and expected even. However, things were taken too far based on the accomplishments and respect that Johnson should've earned long ago.
It should be an awakening for Detroit fans to hear this not only from Goff earlier in the week, but now from St. Brown. This wasn't a reporter's question or a forced answer on a subject the pass catcher didn't want to discuss. The discussion happened on his own podcast, making it clear that it was a message he wanted to get out after hearing about the chants.
Nothing less should be expected of the ultimate team player who is going to have his coaches and teammates' backs, both current and former. No question, fans took things a step too far in a game where the score spoke for itself.