Been a fan for 45+ years. When they suck, I readily admit it. This team has a different attitude, and better players than recent teams.
Chicago has played a tough schedule so far: Green Bay-H, Arizona-H, Seattle-A. Oakland considerably softer: Cincinnati-H, Baltimore-H, Cleveland-A. The Raiders rush defense has been pretty decent, not great but not awful. Its the pass defense that has struggled. the secondary just doesn't have the talent. Fortunately for them, Chicago can't throw the ball. The interior D-line has played well, and the LBs are much better than year's past.
The Chicago defense has not stopped the run very well: 133 yds 4.4/att, 115 yds 4.1/att, 159 yds 5.5/att. Latavious Murray is getting better and better, and the OL is getting better also. The WRs are MUCH better than previous years, when calling someone a number 2 receiver was a stretch. Crabtree gives them a solid #2, and although a rookie Cooper is a legitimate #1.
I look for Chicago to try and establish the run, and use short passes to limit the Oakland pass rush. On offense Oakland must stay out of 3rd and long situations. They did an excellent job of mixing up the play calling last week, using many different weapons on offense.
I think this game will be a low scoring struggle. Its an important game for Oakland, a game that an improving team with a losing pedigree needs to win. They have Denver on deck, and going into that game 3-1 will do a lot for their confidence, and will make them a relevant factor in the AFC West.
I think they make enough plays to win, but its tough to lay a FG on the road with them. I'm probably staying far away from this game, I have enough invested in this game as a fan. I don't need the added stress of a wager.
