The National Football League has a tradition of playing games in London, and that continues this weekend. The Chicago Bears and Oakland Raiders are set to square off on Sunday in what will be a “home” game for the Oakland Raiders. These two teams don’t meet very often, but there is plenty of hype and anticipation around this matchup.
Chicago comes into this game having won three straight contests, but they are a bit banged up. The Bears suffered a brutal season-opening loss to the Green Bay Packers, but they have found a way to win the last three weeks.
Oakland has a 2-2 record, and inconsistency has defined the Raiders season. A win in this game by the Raiders would open some eyes. The Chicago Bears are 5.5-point favorites over the Raiders in this Week 5 game.
Bears Still Needing More Offense
If the Chicago Bears are going to make a return to the playoffs this season, they are going to need some more offense. Chicago is averaging just 16.5 points per game this season, and it has struggled to run the ball. The Bears are averaging just 90 rushing yards per game but might run it often on Sunday. Chicago will be without starting quarterback Mitchell Trubisky, and their passing game is likely to take a step back.
Linebacker Khalil Mack is all set to face his former team in this game, and that should scare the Oakland Raiders on offense. Mack has already recorded 6.5 sacks so far this season, and he has plenty of help on the defensive side of the ball. The Bears have allowed just 11.3 points per game this season, and they are almost impossible to run against. The defense might have to win this one for the Bears, but it’s something they are used to.
Raiders Want to Run
The Oakland Raiders selected running back Josh Jacobs in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft, and he is having a terrific rookie season. Oakland is averaging over 125 rushing yards per contest, but that could change in this game. The Raiders will have to throw the ball to keep the Bears defense guessing, and that could be an issue. Derek Carr is throwing for just 210 yards per game, and he likely won’t get much time in this game.
Oakland has not been great on defense this season, and the trade of Mack prior to last season really hurt this unit. The Raiders have given up 20 points per game so far this season, but they are catching a huge break in this game. Oakland should be able to just focus on the run in this one, and that could help them put up a low number.
Bears Cruise Over Raiders in London
The Chicago Bears have dreams of reaching the Super Bowl this season, and they can’t afford to lose a game like this. Oakland has looked solid at times in 2019, but the Raiders are still going through a bit of a rebuild. The Raiders just don’t have the talent to match up with the Bears, and they will struggle to score in this game. Look for the Bears’ defense to dominate this game and lead their team to victory. Bet the Chicago Bears -5.5 over the Oakland Raiders in London on Sunday.
