Chicago Bears at Oakland Raiders: Game preview and prediction
By Nick Ellis
Preview
Neither of these teams will be rolling into the game with a healthy roster, as both teams are missing key players. The Bears will be without quarterback Mitch Trubisky, which could actually make the team better. The Bears will also be without speedy receiver, Taylor Gabriel.
The Raiders currently have a banged-up offensive line and will be without Gabe Jackson once again, as well as Jordan Devey who will most likely be out for the season. The status of Tyrell Williams and Clelin Ferrell are up in the air, as neither has practiced yet this week.
An injured offensive line for the Raiders will prove to be a big hit for the Raiders considering the Bears have not only the best defense in the NFL but the best pass rush, as well. Derek Carr will have to get rid of the ball quickly all game long, as players such as Khalil Mack, Akiem Hicks, and Eddie Goldman will be getting after him early and often.
The only way for the Raiders to have success against the Bears is to play small ball, and tight end Darren Waller may be the key to that. Even if Tyrell Williams is on the field, his impact on the game could be small. Expect the Raiders to feed Josh Jacobs and hope to wear the Bears defense down, especially if Roquan Smith is not on the field.
The Bears offense is not one that most teams would worry about, but when they have the best defense in the NFL, they do not have to do much. Without Mitch Trubisky, the Bears turn to Chase Daniel. Daniel impressed last weekend against the Vikings, leaving many Bears fans wondering if he should be the starting quarterback of this team.
The Bears also have a solid group of running backs in Tarik Cohen, Mike Davis, and David Montgomery. The offense will have to run a bit differently without Trubisky on the field, and we could see these backs getting more touches on traditional plays. With the Raiders issues at linebacker, one of these backs could end up with a big game.