The Oakland Raiders defeated the Indianapolis Colts in Week 4 to bump up their record in 2019 to 2-2.
So far, they've played on both sides of the coin. At times, Oakland has looked like a surprisingly good team that could fight for an over .500 record. At other times, however, they've looked completely lost.
Now they head into a Week 5 matchup with the 3-1 Chicago Bears. Although the Raiders are the home team, they don't really have an advantage.
The game is being played in London, and Chicago is listed as the favorites.
That being said, anything can happen in the NFL. Here are four bold predictions for the Raiders in their Week 5 game against the Bears.
Josh Jacobs Still Runs
Here's something you're going to hear a lot. Something you'll hear a lot both in this article and in general for the rest of the football season.
The Chicago defense is elite. They're really good. Really really good.
However, no one is perfect. The Bears are absolutely going to give the Oakland offense fits. Expect that more when it comes to the passing game though.
Now, the issue with this is that Oakland might have to abandon the run early on if they're down by a few scores. That might not be too much of an issue though. Chicago's offense isn't exactly instilling fear into its opponents like the defense is.
With that in mind, it would be wise for the Raiders to run the ball. This limits superstar Khalil Mack. Yes, he's still dangerous defending the run but limiting his opportunities to crush your quarterback and rip the ball out of his hands is a good idea.
It also helps that Jacobs has been awesome so far in his rookie season.
Expect another solid outing from Jacobs and he might even break off a big run that gets the Raiders in the end zone. That's something not every team can do against Chicago.
Stop Chicago's Running Game
Speaking of running game, that's the best part of Chicago's offense. The Bears have a really nice duo of David Montgomery and Tarik Cohen at running back.
Meanwhile, the passing game is questionable at best. Even worse, they're going to be using their backup quarterback in this game and will be without one of their best weapons in Taylor Gabriel.
That being said, the Raiders are going to stifle the run. I know this sounds odd because Oakland's run defense isn't exactly great. They have a major advantage this week though.
Heading into this game, it's pretty obvious the Bears will want to run. Oakland can game plan for that. Make them beat you in the air. The Raiders will take their chances and expect the run often.
This will help them a lot. Chicago might still pick up some decent yards, but only because they'll be running it a lot. For the most part, Oakland will keep the ground game under control.
This will help to keep the score close for most of the game. Neither team will be scoring loads of points, and forcing the Bears to pass could give the Raiders decent field position a few times.
Struggle Against the Pass
That being said, banking on the run could hurt them a little too. Oakland will be ready for the run, and it could lead to a few mistakes when defending the pass.
Yes, Chicago's passing attack isn't anything to write home about. That's even more the case due to all their injuries at the moment.
However, the Raiders' passing defense isn't lighting the world on fire either. Their 281 passing yards allowed per game is sixth-worst in the NFL.
Chase Daniel isn't Tom Brady or Aaron Rodgers, but he's a very good backup quarterback. Daniel is a veteran who knows how to play smart and has shown in the past he can make big-time throws.
Oakland will be so focused on the run, and for good reason. Don't expect the Bears to pick up 350 yards in the air. However, don't expect them to crumble either. Daniel will be smart with the ball and stay away from turnovers. He'll also make a few big throws that really make an impact on the game.
Despite all the injuries, the Raiders still won't be perfect against the pass. Expect a few touchdowns courtesy of Daniel and company.
Oakland Loses By One Score
This could definitely be a good game. If the Raiders actually had home-field advantage, more people might even be picking them to win.
They don't though. They're the “home” team but playing in London.
Due to that, the advantage is gone. It's a shame because it was one of their bigger advantages.
Still, Oakland will put up a really good fight. The offense will struggle mightily against that elite defense but find the end zone a few times. That will be mainly due to getting solid field position when Chicago can't move the ball either.
They won't get enough though. Although it will come down to the wire, the Bears will end up winning the game by one score and the Raiders will fall to 2-3.
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