Forward Progress - A Chicago Bears Podcast

Episode: Johnson and Williams - Need to Build on Cowboys Win
Date: September 23, 2025
Hosts: Dan Bernstein & Matt Abbatacola

Overview

In this episode, Dan Bernstein and Matt Abbatacola dive deep into the Chicago Bears’ recent victory over the Dallas Cowboys, focusing on the need for the team—and key players Jalen Johnson and Caleb Williams—to build on their momentum. The hosts break down advanced stats, injury impacts, defensive schemes, and the evolution of the Bears’ offense under head coach Ben Johnson, blending sharp football analysis with the signature humor and camaraderie that make Forward Progress a staple for Bears fans.

Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Jalen Johnson's Injury & Defensive Adjustments

Timestamps: 00:20–04:00

• Jalen Johnson’s Core Injury: Hosts discuss speculation that Jalen Johnson may undergo core muscle (likely groin/hernia) surgery, with doubts about him returning this season.
  • “I don't expect him back and I expect them to have to—you've got to rush the hell out of the passer because without him it changes everything you do in the back end, even when Kyler Gordon is back.” —Dan (02:47)
• Bears’ Defensive Style: Minimal blitzing (lowest blitz rate in the league at 4%). Lack of pass rush production is a concern (tied for fifth fewest sacks).
  • “If they keep that kind of shell type pressure and scheme on defense, they're not going to continue to get pressure.” —Matt (03:07)

2. Caleb Williams’ Development & Ben Johnson’s Impact

Timestamps: 00:20–04:00, 11:52–18:37

• Statistical Progress: Williams’ PFF grade this season is 78.1, a 10-point increase from last year, ranking him sixth among QBs with at least 100 dropbacks.
• Ben Johnson's Offensive Culture Shift: Growth in how the offense breaks the huddle and lines up; praise for Williams' processing but acknowledgment of lingering fundamentals to work on.
  • “He’s proud of the quarterback for getting the calls out of the huddle quicker.” —Matt (12:15)
  • “He knows it sounds like damning with faint praise... ‘Oh, you got out of the huddle just right.’” —Dan (14:01)
• Impact of Previous Coaching: Skepticism about last year's development under Matt Eberflus and prior offensive staff—possible setbacks and 'factory reset' needed for Caleb Williams.
  • “So many things to reset to factory defaults... take all the programming, all the cookies, everything on this hard drive and wipe it.” —Dan (13:32)

3. Around the League: Other Teams’ Troubles

Timestamps: 19:47–27:20

• Falcons: Early-season chaos—offensive coordinator to move from booth to sideline, WR coach Ike Hilliard fired after just three games.
  • “They have fired wide receivers coach Ike Hilliard and hitting coach Greg Walker... I just think they're setting an example because Darnell Mooney isn't good enough, and that's Ike Hilliard's fault.” —Dan (21:43–22:41)
• Titans: Head coach Brian Callahan relinquishes play-calling duties—a classic move of a coach in trouble.
  • “Do you ever really solidify your job after surrendering play calling duties under pressure?” —Dan (25:02)
• NFC North Updates: Key injuries to CD Lamb (Cowboys) and Nick Bosa (49ers) could open up opportunities for the Bears.

4. Next Week: Bears’ Opportunities vs. Raiders

Timestamps: 07:48–09:48, 32:47–33:20

• Early Game Plans: Bears have been strong on scripted drives; excitement about how Ben Johnson will attack the Raiders, who struggle in the first half (third-worst in yards allowed).
• Concerns About Raiders' Pass Rush: Maxx Crosby is a looming threat—heightened concern over his recent attitude and potential to disrupt Bears’ offense.

5. Fun & Notable Moments

Timestamps: 04:05–06:44, 28:04–32:12

• "Glizzy" Locker Room Moment: Joking about Chicago’s Winner’s Circle giving out free hot dogs (“free glizzies for the four tuddies”).
• Wardrobe and Golf Course Hot Dogs: Light-hearted banter about free shirts and ranking local golf course hot dogs.
• Next Gen Speed Trivia:
  • Nayshaan Wright (corner) and Luther Burden (returner) crack the NFL’s top 10 fastest ball carriers this season.
    • “Nayshaan Wright, 21.66 mph... Luther Burden, 21.01 mph on a 36-yard kick return.” —Dan (29:58, 30:47)
  • Caleb Williams is 20th in top speeds (20.45 mph), showcasing his underappreciated mobility.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “He can't get me. I'm going this way. Oh, god. They're like, no, no, no, you're slow.” —Dan describing David Montgomery being caught from behind after a breakaway run (11:39)
• “So many things to reset to factory defaults... take all the programming, all the cookies, everything on this hard drive and wipe it.” —Dan on recalibrating Caleb Williams (13:32)
• “If you had two X's in your name, you're extra, extra everything.” —Dan, on Maxx Crosby’s playoff-level intensity (33:09)
• “Just exasperated and master debated.” —Matt, capping a goofy, pun-laden sign-off segment (34:56)

Important Segment Timestamps

• Jalen Johnson injury & defensive scheme: 00:20–04:00
• Caleb Williams’ progression, “factory reset”: 11:52–18:37
• Fun sidetrack: “Glizzy” banter & Free shirts: 04:05–07:47
• Around the League (Falcons, Titans, injuries): 19:47–27:20
• NFC North schedule update: 27:30–28:00
• NextGen Stats Bears speed trivia: 28:04–32:12
• Raiders preview & Maxx Crosby concern: 32:47–33:20

Podcast Tone

The episode is a hallmark of the “Forward Progress” identity—mixing hard-hitting analysis and up-to-the-minute Bears/NFL insight with authentic Chicago fan energy, wry banter, and playful digressions. Dan’s dry wit and Matt’s easy rapport add levity without detracting from serious football talk, making even deep stats and grim injury news engaging for diehards and casual fans alike.

Final Notes

The hosts tease a more detailed Bears-Raiders breakdown for later in the week, encouraging listeners to tune in as the Bears try to sustain momentum and overcome adversity in the coming games.

End of Summary.