Ben Johnson, the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator, has a knack for turning ordinary plays into extraordinary highlights, and his latest masterpiece earned another sweet-tasting touchdown for the Lions in their Week 17 game.
Ben Johnson Pulls Yet Another Touchdown Trick Out of His Sleeves
In a game against the San Francisco 49ers, Johnson’s creativity again delivered a surprise gift, giving way to an astonishing hook-and-ladder touchdown by Jameson Williams. The moment brought the football world to the edge of its seat, forcing NFL insider Adam Schefter to capture the play’s brilliance in a tweet.
Uploading a clip of the trick play, Schefter summed up the brilliant move, writing, “Back into their bag of tricks for another touchdown.”
Back into their bag of tricks for another touchdown: pic.twitter.com/1kam3ooITS
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 31, 2024
The play unfolded on a 3rd-and-12, a situation where most offenses aim for safe yardage to set up a punt or field goal attempt, but not the Lions. Amon-Ra St. Brown made a sharp catch before flipping the ball to a streaking Williams, who turned on his elite speed to blaze down the sideline for a 42-yard touchdown.
The execution was seamless, leaving the 49ers’ defense scrambling to react and the spectators flabbergasted as the Lions delivered a reminder that Johnson’s offensive philosophy prioritizes ingenuity and risk-taking to keep defenses guessing.
This particular play also served as a shining moment for Williams. The 23-year-old wide receiver is already known for his lightning speed, and his latest attempt proved why he was a critical part of the Lions’ offense, as he scored his second touchdown of the night.
Ben Johnson Is Expected To Leave for Head Coaching Gig in the Offseason
Under Johnson’s guidance, the Lions have frequently turned unconventional concepts into game-changing moments, highlighting his ability to think outside the box and utilize his players’ talent in unexpected ways.
However, Johnson’s days with the Lions appear numbered, as the offensive coordinator is expected to move on to a head coaching role as early as 2025. The rumors around Johnson’s head coaching ambitions aren’t new, and he’s never shied away from addressing them.
“I think there’s a burning desire in every man to find what he’s made out of, push the limits, and see if he’s got what it takes. There’s certainly a fire there,” Johnson said in a recent interview with Pride of Detroit on Dec. 19. “
That fire, coupled with his reputation for innovation, has made him a top target for teams looking to turn their fortunes around.
After years of being one of the NFL’s hottest coaching candidates, Johnson’s departure seems inevitable, especially with his name linked to teams like the Chicago Bears. Reports suggest Johnson is particularly intrigued by the Bears’ potential head coaching vacancy. If he were to take the job, it would sting even more for Lions fans, as it would strengthen a division rival.
As the Lions approach the playoffs, Johnson’s willingness to unveil more bold plays suggests he has more surprises waiting in the wings, leaving his next moves for the offseason.