Ben Johnson’s offensive playcalling hit “Game of Thrones” levels of brilliance, and fans are here for it. When Jameson Williams pulled off that insane 42-yard hook-and-ladder touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers, it felt like Jon Snow taking the Iron Throne — literal greatness.
Johnson’s play was a plot twist no one really saw coming, and now NFL fans can’t stop raving about it.
Lions’ Hook-and-Ladder TD Sparks Fan Frenzy, Ben Johnson’s Genius Shines
After Williams pulled off the 42-yard hook-and-ladder TD against the 49ers, social media erupted in excitement.
“This is peak offense,” one user declared, capturing the essence of the moment. The Detroit Lions’ offense had just delivered something electric, and everyone was on their feet.
This is peak offense
— Sleeper Picks (@SleeperPicksHQ) December 31, 2024
Another fan commented, “Lions’ 42-yard hook & ladder touchdown was pure brilliance! Ben Johnson’s playcalling is on fire! 🔥 #DETvsSF.” Clearly, Johnson’s strategy was lighting up the field, and X (formerly known as Twitter).
Lions' 42-yard hook & ladder touchdown was pure brilliance! Ben Johnson's playcalling is on fire! 🔥 #DETvsSF
— Bawarchi Tabletalks (@BawarchiTT) December 31, 2024
As the game progressed, fans were brimming with optimism. “Might see 70 combined points tonight,” said one, hinting at the high-scoring thriller unfolding before their eyes.
Might see 70 combined points tonight
— The GrassCutter (@NickReiter1979) December 31, 2024
The hook-and-ladder play had turned the momentum, with another fan exclaiming, “Yeah got them 6 to pull the game within 1! Let’s go.” The Lions were keeping the energy high, and fans were right there with them.
The reactions were unanimous in praising Johnson’s creativity. “The 42-yard hook & ladder touchdown is pure magic! Ben Johnson is absolutely in his element, pulling off another masterstroke with that play,” one fan wrote, reinforcing the genius behind the call.
And then there was the ultimate mic drop: “Imagine the Jets or Giants drawing this up? I can’t, either.”
Johnson had fans raving, and it was clear — when he’s on his game, the offense is unstoppable.
Lions’ 2025 Coaching Shuffle: Johnson May Be Headed for a HC Role
The Lions might be hunting for a Super Bowl in 2024, but come 2025, they could be chasing a new OC if Johnson gets snatched up.
Johnson, whose playcalling has lit up the Lions’ offense, is one of the hottest names in coaching. He’s been a head coach candidate for a while, and his time in Detroit may be running out.
“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,” Johnson said, sounding like someone ready to call the shots as HC, per Jeremy Reisman of Pride of Detroit.
While Johnson’s name has been tossed around for next year’s head-coach cycle, Dianna Russini from The Athletic says Mike Vrabel is the real frontrunner.
“I think without a doubt headed into this coaching cycle here — Mike Vrabel is hands down going to be the most sought-out coach because we’re seeing the trend once again being about a leader, a CEO that can quickly establish a culture and an identity for teams that are in need,” Russini said on the Scoop City podcast.
Sure, Johnson’s had his fingerprints all over the Lions’ offensive resurgence, but Vrabel has actually steered a team as a head coach — leading the Tennessee Titans to two division titles and an AFC championship appearance. Johnson, while brilliant, is still climbing that ladder.
The reality? With more head-coach vacancies expected in 2025, the Lions might lose their offensive wizard. Whether it’s Johnson or Vrabel, the coaching carousel will be spinning — and the Lions might have to make a tough call. Johnson’s future, though, is pretty bright.