Bears mismanage late kickoff

In his first game as head coach, Ben Johnson mismanaged the late kickoff and burned the two-minute warning.

Bears misplay late kickoff costing comeback bid

After Chicago cut the deficit to 27-24 with 2:02 left, Bears coach Ben Johnson faced a crucial clock decision. He chose a deep kickoff, hoping for a touchback, instead of an onside try or an out of bounds kick. The Vikings returned the ball not only to start their drive but to burn more than two seconds and the two-minute warning before Chicago could get the ball back.

The Vikings then mounted a three-and-out stop by Chicago, but the damage was already done. The plan to save time backfired as Minnesota benefited from the Bears’ choice, keeping the clock running and leaving Chicago with nine seconds on their final possession. Peyton Manning highlighted the moment on the ManningCast, underscoring how the two-minute warning can swing late outcomes and urging a safer line of action.

This moment puts a spotlight on a rookie head coach learning the job under pressure. It shows how late-game decisions blend analytics with instinct, and how a single kickoff can redefine the closing minutes of a game. Johnson’s approach appears to reflect a trust in a traditional kick and hope scenario rather than a calculated risk that minimizes clock exposure.

The public airing of Manning’s take amplifies the stakes. A single misstep can become a teaching moment for fans, future opponents, and the team's own players. For Johnson, the episode may shape early perceptions of his clock management and set a benchmark for how his staff handles similar situations going forward.

Highlights

The clock never lies, and it will keep teaching every coach who faces it.