Another offseason milestone can be crossed off the list, as the Chicago Bears' 2025 schedule is officially out.
We already knew the opponents, of course, but now the official order and times are set, and there are some very, very intriguing storylines.
One of the topics that will be talked about for months on end, though, is that of head coach Ben Johnson getting his opportunity to back up the trolling of Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur all the way back in his introductory press conference.
Ben Johnson will have to wait a while to back up his trolling of Matt LaFleur
Remember when Johnson once told the Bears media that he quite enjoyed beating Matt LaFleur twice a year? It was funny, justified and dare I say, cute.
But now? It's go time.
Well, not quite, but we know when the opportunity to put his money where his mouth is officially lies.
The Bears won't face the Packers until Week 14 when they travel to Green Bay in the two team's first of two divisional clashes. That's not until December 7.
But then, not even two weeks later, the Bears will host Green Bay on Saturday December 20.
Two games against the Packers in 13 days -- oh, yes. This is what we live for.
By then, Johnson will have a good grasp on who this Bears team really is. Having over half the season played out before taking on your most bitter rival could come as an advantage. After all, Caleb Williams is going into a brand-new offense and has some fresh playmakers to add to the fold as well.
It will likely take some time, and that's what the early season stretches are for.
However, it doesn't start out easy. The Bears host the Minnesota Vikings on Monday Night Football in Week 1 and follow it up with a road tilt against the Detroit Lions.
Nothing like being baptized by fire for a first-year head coach!