Chicago Bears at Oakland Raiders: 3 things to watch

3. Bring the heat on Chase Daniel

Similar to the trend set last season, the Raiders have struggled to apply pressure to opposing quarterbacks. With only five sacks through the first four weeks, something needs to change in the pass rush department. To make matters worse, the team’s sack leader Benson Mayowa was inactive last weekend for an undisclosed reason. He voiced his displeasure on Twitter, and the situation should be monitored.

In Mayowa’s place however, rookie Maxx Crosby made his presence felt. With four quarterback pressures, two tackles for loss, and one forced fumble, Crosby was probably the Raiders best defensive player last week. Hopefully Crosby can turn those pressures into sacks this week as the Raiders will need to get to Chase Daniel and force him to make mistakes.

It isn’t just Crosby’s responsibility to get to the passer. Fourth overall draft pick Clelin Ferrell needs to make an impact, as does second year defensive end Arden Key. Mayowa, if active, has already shown that he can get to the passer. While Josh Mauro is more of a run stuffer than pass rusher, he needs to make his presence felt as well.

Chase Daniel has three career interceptions on 184 passes, and does not make as many mistakes as a passer like Mitch Trubisky. To force mistakes and bad throws the Raiders defense needs to apply pressure and force him from the comfort of the pocket. If they can force Daniel to make some errant throws, the secondary could have an easy day and pick off some easy passes.

Turnovers will be paramount, and to force Daniel in to turning the ball over, the defense needs to get home in the pass rush. If the Raiders win the turnover battle and force Daniel to make some mistakes, they will be in a great position to win on Sunday.