By Mummy Grace 
The Detroit Lions proved they can dominate opponents on the field, but this weekend they also showed they’re not above having a little fun at the expense of an old friend. In their big matchup with the Bears, the Lions pulled out a familiar trick play—the now-famous “Stumble Bum”—as a clever nod to former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who left Detroit to take over as Chicago’s head coach.
The “Stumble Bum” originally became a fan favorite during Johnson’s time in Detroit, when it turned into one of those plays that perfectly captured the Lions’ creative, fearless offensive identity. So when the Lions dusted it off and ran it again—only this time against Johnson’s new team—it was more than just a football stunt. It was a well-timed piece of gamesmanship, a wink to their former play-caller, and a way to remind the Bears who still owns the NFC North spotlight.
Detroit’s players had a blast pulling it off, and the fans inside Ford Field ate it up. Even Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown got in on the postgame jokes, saying the play was more than just strategy—it was about keeping the culture fun while still making a statement.
For the Bears, though, it was salt in the wound. Johnson left the Lions to try to rebuild Chicago, but Detroit reminded him that even his most memorable creations can be flipped on him. The Lions didn’t just outplay the Bears—they out-pranked them too.
It was a perfect example of how this Lions team balances swagger with substance. They can score, they can celebrate, and they can send a message all in the same snap. And with the “Stumble Bum” now part of Lions lore, it’s safe to say Chicago won’t forget this one anytime soon.