Ben Johnson offers explanation for his awkward halftime interview

Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson acknowledged Monday that he went a little too far in a confrontational halftime interview during the team’s win.

Johnson spoke to CBS sideline reporter Aditi Kinkhabwala at halftime of Sunday’s game at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nev. At the time, the Bears were trailing 14-9, and Johnson had a very chilly response when he was asked if he felt he needed to make changes to get the team going (video here).

As it turns out, the whole thing was the product of some miscommunication. Johnson said Monday that he misheard the question about needing to make changes, and did not take it well in the moment.

“I am a little disappointed with how that looks,” Johnson said. “I didn’t hear very well, but that’s not an excuse. What was a question, I took as being told I needed to change things, which I didn’t take too well. I have to be better with those going forward.”

Johnson was understandably unhappy with a fairly limp first half performance from his offense. If he misheard the question and thought Kinkhabwala was outright telling him to make changes, it is no wonder he bristled at that. On the other hand, he has not exactly been friendly with the media at times this season, so this is not exactly new.

Johnson’s mood unquestionably had not been helped by his team’s 0-2 start, but they have now won two straight games after Sunday’s 25-24 victory over Las Vegas. They are heading into their bye week and will then face the Washington Commanders in Week 6.