Oakland Raiders at Chicago Bears: Week 4 Prediction

Sep 27, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) and wide receiver Andre Holmes (18) celebrate a first half touchdown against the Cleveland Browns at FirstEnergy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ken Blaze-USA TODAY Sports

It may not be must-see TV for a lot of people in week 4, but the Oakland Raiders and Chicago Bears still hold some intriguing subplots ahead of their showdown at Soldier Field. Who comes away with the victory?

Injuries

Jeremiah Ratliff, Alshon Jeffery and Jay Cutler back at practice

One could make an argument that the Bears have had to play the previous six quarters of football without three of their five best players. Jay Cutler and Alshon Jeffery were down with hamstring injuries while Jeremiah Ratliff served a three-game suspension. All were back at practice to start the week. It’s a welcome turn of events after enduring three brutal weeks to open the season.

Justin Ellis poised for return to action

The defensive line for the Raiders is about to get a welcome boost to their rotation. Defensive tackle Justin Ellis, who had missed the previous two games due to an ankle problem. He practiced fully for the team and barring a setback should be able to give a go in Chicago.

Key Matchups

Amari Cooper vs. Kyle Fuller

The rookie Oakland receiver is every bit as advertised. Amari Cooper has the speed-agility combination that drives defensive backs crazy when he’s allowed space to move. It’s yet another tough challenge for second-year corner Kyle Fuller. After a horrendous start to the season, he played better in Seattle but that confidence will be tested here.

Kyle Long vs. Khalil Mack

Thing could be the highlight match of the afternoon. Kyle Long, the former Pro Bowl guard has since shifted to right tackle and seems to be making a home there. He’s be charged with trying to block rising pass rusher Khalil Mack. Their battle could go a long way towards deciding the outcome of the game.

Fantasy

Sit: Latavius Murray

The stats will be a little misleading but the Bears defense has actually been pretty stiff against the run through the first three game. Problem is little help from the offense has allowed opponents to wear them down late and run it more effectively. That should change with the return of Ratliff, who is their best nose tackle. It should mean a tougher week for Latavius Murray.

Start: Eddie Royal

If there is one player who knows the Raiders and how to take advantage of them, it’s wide receiver Eddie Royal. He has seen them every season of his career from his days with the Denver Broncos and San Diego Chargers. Oakland’s pass defense has been somewhat porous lately. This and the possible return of Jay Cutler could make for a breakout game for him.

Prediction: Bears win 24-23

The Raiders have something special building but it’s still a young team that hasn’t learned how to win consistently just yet. Playing a second-straight road game should prove that. Another reason the Bears finally get out of the losing column is a turn of good health. Three of their arguably best players could be back, which could bring a significant boost at just the time they need it most.

Next: 2016 NFL Mock Draft: Creating Quarterback Controversies

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