Oct. 04--Bears on offense
IN THE AIR
NFL ranks: Bears offense 31st, Raiders defense 30th
If Jay Cutler plays despite his strained hamstring, his restricted mobility will be a factor against a pass rush that includes Khalil Mack, the fifth pick in the 2014 draft. Coordinator Adam Gase has used Cutler's mobility to loosen defenses, particularly with zone-read option runs, and those won't be feasible. If Cutler can't extend plays as usual, he must get the ball out quickly and accurately from the pocket. Making matters worse, receiver Alshon Jeffery (hamstring) likely will miss his third straight game. The Raiders have struggled to cover tight ends, so the Bears must find ways to get Martellus Bennett downfield.
ON THE GROUND
Bears offense T-6th, Raiders defense 13th
Part of the Bears' commitment to the run stems from their weaknesses protecting the quarterback. And with Charles Leno expected to replace left tackle Jermon Bushrod (shoulder, concussion), that reasoning applies even more. The Raiders surrendered only 39 rushing yards last Sunday to the Browns, a product of coach Jack Del Rio's rugged mindset in the running game, Gase said. Gase wants to reincorporate rookie Jeremy Langford after he didn't get a carry last week. The Bears expect a big play from him soon because of his speed.
Bears 28th in total offense, 31st in points scored
Raiders 32nd in total defense, 28th in points allowed
Bears on defense
IN THE AIR
NFL ranks: Raiders offense 7th, Bears defense 6th
David Carr and Amari Cooper comprise one of the NFL's most exciting young quarterback-receiver duos. Cooper's polish belies his rookie status, and Carr considers him a security blanket when faced with man-to-man coverage. Cornerback Kyle Fuller would regain some confidence with a good day against Cooper, whom he played against in college. Up front, outside linebackers Willie Young and Lamarr Houston will play more in the absence of Jared Allen. Young must maintain good leverage and beat blocks with his length, something he did consistently in 2014.
ON THE GROUND
Raiders offense 17th, Bears defense T-28th
Third-year running back Latavius Murray had 139 yards and a touchdown on 26 carries against the Browns. "A lot like (Matt) Forte, he's got the ability to slash and be a threat in the running game, and he's got finish speed," Del Rio said of the former sixth-round pick. Rodney Hudson was widely regarded as the best free-agent center during the offseason. Defensive lineman Jeremiah Ratliff's conditioning will be a focus as he returns from a three-game suspension and left ankle sprain.
Raiders 7th in total offense, 10th in points scored
Bears 11th in total defense, 32nd in points allowed
