Andy Dalton has averaged 270 yards per game over the last two weeks, with five touchdowns and just one interception, with a completion percentage of 65.4. The Bears’ defense has held teams to an average of 320 yards per game, including 175 through the air. A big part of Dalton’s early success is the chemistry that quickly developed with Johnson.

Dalton has targeted Johnson 27 times over the past two games for 15 receptions, 205 yards and two touchdowns. Even as defenses start to focus more on Johnson, the receiver is trying to be whoever Dalton needs him to be.

“It allows me to play fast,” Johnson said of Dalton’s experience. “I always have a plan on the line and I’m me, it gives me, me and him, that little connection that we have just allows me, knowing that I can do certain things on my routes, knowing that he’s on me calculates, so ultimately my job is to make sure I’m in the right place and make the play when the ball comes my way.

“Andy, an experienced guy there. I’m just showing you that if there’s a vet there, I keep saying you know what you’re going to get. It allows you to just go out there and play fast and just be yourself and don’t think about it too much.”

With Adam Thielen out (hamstring), Johnson said he noticed the Bengals started playing him differently in Week 4, clouding him and overdoing the safety. If the Bears keep an eye on Johnson this week, a receiver like Xavier Legette — who had six catches for 66 yards and his first touchdown last week — will have a chance to use his natural skills to win matchups, which is all part is part of Dave Canales’ plans.

“Right now we have a starting point, and it starts with Diontae Johnson and trying to figure out ways to mold him so he looks good that way,” the coach said this week. “He saw a little double coverage last week. Well, guess what, Xavier made a 15-yard catch and a crucial third down because he had the single. So we’re getting one-on-one opportunities for receivers, for tight ends, for the backs at times when we have a focus point and a starting point in our passing game. And I’m excited about that.”

Of Dalton’s 77 pass attempts this season, 51 were quick passes (66.2%). On rush passes, the Bears have allowed the lowest completion percentage above expected (-7.6%) and the 5th-fewest yards (268).