Bears Lead NFL in Time of Possession, but Ben Johnson Prioritizes Efficiency Over Control

Key points

• The Bears average 35:30 minutes of possession per 60-minute game, the highest in the NFL.
• Chicago has run 505 offensive plays this season, averaging over 70 plays per game, the most in the league.
• Ben Johnson stated he prefers a one-play touchdown drive over a 10-play drive, emphasizing efficiency over possession time.
• The team recently won 30-24 against the New England Patriots and 31-23 against the Atlanta Falcons, but struggled to maintain leads in both games.
• Johnson acknowledged that the high play count can wear down offensive linemen and wide receivers, requiring careful snap management.

Background

The Bears have faced quarterback instability this season, with Caleb Williams missing time due to injury, leading to starts by backups Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum. Earlier in October, the team relied heavily on running back Kyle Monangai after D'Andre Swift exited a game with a knee injury. These roster adjustments contributed to a run-heavy offensive approach that has inadvertently boosted possession time. The team currently holds a 5-2 record, with Johnson's overall record standing at 17-9 since taking over the head coaching position.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports highlights Johnson's dismissal of time of possession as a winning metric, focusing on his desire for explosive plays. Sports Illustrated notes that the possession leadership is a byproduct of the Bears' strong running game and emphasizes the physical toll on offensive linemen. Da Windy City focuses on the team's resilience, arguing that Johnson's discovery of the squad's ability to survive late-game adversity is more valuable than the possession statistics. All sources agree that the Bears are currently leading the league in possession but disagree on whether this is a strategic goal or an unintended consequence of their offensive style.

Why it matters

The Bears' current success is tied to their ability to control the clock, but Johnson's focus on efficiency suggests a shift in strategy. If the team can reduce penalties and improve scoring speed, they may avoid the late-game struggles seen in recent victories. This approach could determine whether the Bears can sustain their 5-2 record and compete with top-tier NFL teams as the season progresses.

What to watch

The Bears will face tougher opponents in upcoming weeks, testing their ability to close out games without relying solely on possession time. Johnson plans to address pre-snap and holding penalties to improve offensive discipline. The team will also monitor the snap counts of key players to prevent fatigue, particularly as the season extends into the winter months.