Full Breakdown
Packers Crush Bears 31-7; Coaches Exchange Tense Handshake
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
At Lambeau Field, the Green Bay Packers defeated the Chicago Bears 31-7 in a Week 5 divisional matchup. After the game, the mandatory post-game handshake between Packers head coach Matt LaFleur and Bears head coach Ben Johnson was brief and notably cordial, contrasting with earlier icy encounters.
Background & Context
The rivalry intensified after Johnson’s introductory press conference, where he said, “And to be quite frank with ya, I kind of enjoyed beating Matt LaFleur twice a year,” — Ben Johnson, Bears head coach. That remark sparked a series of public jabs, including a “f*** the Packers” outburst after a playoff win in January. The two coaches have met in several post-game handshakes that fans have labeled “icy,” making the latest exchange a focal point of media coverage.
Data & Statistics
- Final score: Packers 31, Bears 7.
- Turnovers forced by Green Bay: four.
- Packers quarterback Jordan Love completed 25 of 31 passes for 367 yards and two touchdowns.
- Wide receiver Christian Watson recorded six catches for 143 yards and two touchdowns.
- Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent threw for 87 yards with two interceptions before being replaced in the fourth quarter.
- The Bears’ rushing attack managed 81 yards total, averaging 3.4 yards per carry.
Official Statements & Responses
LaFleur emphasized a player-first approach before the game, saying, “Because this game is about players and so we’ll keep it about the players. I’m not the one out there they’re playing,” — Matt LaFleur, Packers head coach. When asked about Johnson’s earlier trash-talk, LaFleur replied, “Again, I have a hard time with that. That’s a better question for them,” — Matt LaFleur, Packers head coach, adding that both teams are “moving in the same direction” and “got each other’s backs.”
Johnson has not publicly addressed the handshake, but his earlier comment remains a reference point for the rivalry’s narrative.
On-the-Ground Reports
Observers noted that LaFleur briefly patted Johnson on the back after the handshake, a gesture captured in multiple video clips. Fans on social media described the moment as “more civil” than previous meetings, though many still sensed lingering tension.
Why It Matters / Impact
The decisive loss reignited a quarterback controversy for Chicago. With starter Caleb Williams still nursing a hamstring strain, Bears officials must decide whether to continue with Bagent, promote backup Case Keenum, or wait for Williams’ return. The decision will shape Chicago’s offensive strategy heading into a Week 6 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons.
What’s Next
- Quarterback decision: Bears coach Johnson is expected to announce the starter for the upcoming game against the Falcons, pending Williams’ health status.
- Divisional standings: The Packers now hold a tiebreaker over the Bears at 3-2, while both teams trail the undefeated Minnesota Vikings.
Verbatim Quotes
- “And to be quite frank with ya, I kind of enjoyed beating Matt LaFleur twice a year,” — Ben Johnson, Bears head coach
- “Because this game is about players and so we’ll keep it about the players. I’m not the one out there they’re playing,” — Matt LaFleur, Packers head coach
- “Again, I have a hard time with that. That’s a better question for them,” — Matt LaFleur, Packers head coach
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
No major discrepancies appear among the sources regarding the game’s score, turnover count, or statistical leaders. However, the precise timing of the Bears’ quarterback change and the internal evaluation of Williams’ injury remain unreported.