Lions rout Bears 52-21 as Ben Johnson returns to Detroit

The Detroit Lions routed the Chicago Bears 52-21 on Sunday at Ford Field, turning the return of former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson into a one-sided homecoming that left the Bears reeling and their new head coach under fresh scrutiny. Detroit piled up 511 total yards and averaged a franchise-record 8.8 yards per play in a performance that put the Lions back on track after a season-opening loss, while Chicago fell to 0-2 to open Johnson's first season as a head coach.

Jared Goff led the onslaught, completing 23 of 28 passes for 334 yards and five touchdowns, with Amon-Ra St. Brown hauling in nine catches for 115 yards and three scores. Jameson Williams added 108 yards and a touchdown on just two receptions. The Lions’ balanced attack also included rushing touchdowns by Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. The offense’s efficiency, orchestrated with play-calling by new Lions coordinator John Morton, came despite Johnson’s departure to Chicago in the offseason.

Chicago produced some bright spots, notably receiver Rome Odunze, who finished with 128 yards and two touchdowns, and quarterback Caleb Williams, who completed 19 of 30 passes for 207 yards with two scores and an...