Bears rookie Benedet poised to be a pivotal player against Raiders as injuries challenge Chicago’s depth
In a season filled with ups and downs, the Chicago Bears find themselves grappling with an increasing number of injuries as they prepare for their crucial Week 4 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. With the stakes high, undrafted rookie Theo Benedet may emerge as an unexpected key player in the Bears’ quest for a second consecutive victory.
Momentum and Challenges Ahead
Last week, the Bears showcased their potential by defeating the Dallas Cowboys, thanks in large part to the stellar play of quarterback Caleb Williams. However, as they enter Week 4, the challenge intensifies. Winning back-to-back games is a hallmark of quality teams, while struggling to maintain momentum can hinder growth, particularly for a young squad under new leadership.
As the Bears face the Raiders, the importance of this game cannot be overstated. A win would propel them to a respectable 2-2 record before heading into their bye week, making the outcome even more critical as they navigate the challenges of a developing season.
Neutralizing Maxx Crosby
A focal point for Chicago’s success will be the protection of Caleb Williams, especially against Raiders’ defensive end Maxx Crosby. The Bears have the personnel to manage Crosby, with right tackle Darnell Wright previously proving effective against him—even while battling injuries. Unfortunately, Wright sustained a significant injury last week and has been sidelined from practices.
Should Wright be unable to take the field, Benedet, the undrafted Canadian rookie, will likely step into the starting role. Benedet had a brief introduction to NFL action when he filled in for Wright after his exit against the Cowboys. However, facing Crosby for an entire game is a different challenge entirely, and the Raiders are sure to exploit any weaknesses in the Bears’ offensive line.
Leveraging Home Field Dynamics
While the Raiders call Las Vegas home, they have not established a strong home-field advantage. This situation could tilt in favor of the Bears, as Allegiant Stadium is expected to host a considerable number of Chicago fans. An enthusiastic crowd could provide a significant psychological boost for the Bears, especially if they can ignite their offense early in the game. Establishing a rhythm right from the start would not only energize the team but also create an electric atmosphere that could rattle the Raiders.
Revamping the Run Game
Both the Bears’ run game and their defense against rushing attacks have struggled mightily this season. D’Andre Swift, the Bears’ lead running back, has been unable to find any rhythm, averaging just 3.5 yards per carry. On the other side of the ball, Chicago’s defense has been porous, allowing nearly 140 rushing yards per game, ranking among the worst in the NFL.
This inefficiency presents a daunting challenge against a Raiders team that could capitalize on these weaknesses. If Swift cannot find his footing, the pressure on Caleb Williams will increase dramatically, allowing defenders like Crosby to wreak havoc. Likewise, Raiders rookie running back Ashton Jeanty is yet to establish himself, but against a Bears run defense that has shown vulnerability, he could have a breakout performance.
As the Bears look to build on their recent momentum, the contributions of players like Benedet may be pivotal in determining their success against the Raiders. The outcome of this game could serve as a defining moment for Chicago’s season, setting the tone for the weeks to come.
