The NFL begins the first of three games across the pond as the Chicago Bears take on the Oakland Raiders in London. Let’s a look back at last week and what’s to come this Sunday for both teams. It’s the first of the London series, Bears vs Raiders.
Chicago Bears Recap and Preview
Chicago managed to get a dominant 16-6 victory over the Minnesota Vikings, but it costed them starting quarterback Mitchell Trubisky. He got dragged down by Danielle Hunter in the sixth play of the first drive. Then, his non-throwing arm landed awkwardly, and the ball popped out. Trubisky had to be sidelined, so backup QB Chase Daniels took over. He went 22-of-30 for 195 yards and the only touchdown of the game from there. Trubisky was diagnosed with a dislocated left shoulder and a slight labrum tear. He was officially ruled out for Sunday’s game.
I Top linebacker Khalil Mack will be the center of this game. This will mark his first game against his former team since the trade back in September of last year. Drafted in 2014, Mack was the star of the Oakland defense for four seasons, racking up sacks and forced rumbles. He was traded on Sep. 1 after a long contract holdout. Since being with the Bears, he’s had 17 sacks and 10 forced fumbles. Meanwhile, the offense will have to get used to Daniels as QB until Trubisky is healthy. It’s nothing new for the 10-year veteran since he’s had two starts last season. He had a combined 53-of-76 with 515 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions in his win to Detroit and loss to the Giants.
Oakland Raiders Recap and Preview
The Raiders barely escaped the Indianapolis Colts with a 31-24 win. Starting QB Derek Carr went 21-of-31 for 189 yards and two touchdowns. The team managed to get three touchdowns in three of their first four possessions, taking them to a 21-10 lead at halftime. Indy caught up in the fourth quarter with a touchdown by Chester Rogers with five minutes and a half remaining. But it wouldn’t be enough as a 30-yard pick six by Erik Harris sealed the deal with nearly two minutes left.
Oakland knows Mack will be coming at their offense, and he will not go out easily. However, the offense has been getting better, and they have an ace up their sleeve in the form of rookie running back Josh Jacobs. After four weeks on the field, he’s rushed for 307 yards and two touchdowns, made three catches for 57 yards and leads all rookies in yards from scrimmage. The defense, however, isn’t looking as bright. Vontaze Burfict, one of the main defensive starters, received a season-long suspension after his helmet-to-helmet contact with Colts’ Jack Doyle. Tahir Whitehead will play signal caller this season forward.
