The Chicago Bears are set to take on the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 4, where they’re looking for their second consecutive victory after dismantling the Dallas Cowboys at home in Week 3, in what was arguably the best performance of quarterback Caleb Williams’ young career.
Chicago shined in all three phases of the game against Dallas last week, but their offense got the biggest praise as Williams threw for 298 yards, four touchdowns, and did not throw an interception or take a sack from the Cowboys defense. With Las Vegas having Maxx Crosby as their superstar pass rusher, it’ll be crucial for the Bears offensive line to continue their strong play and keep Williams upright.
Ahead of Week 4, here are the top offensive keys for the Bears as they take on the Raiders:
Protect Caleb Williams
For the first time in his NFL career, quarterback Caleb Williams played a game in which he didn’t take a sack from an opponent last week, and he put on quite the showing. The Bears will have a much tougher test against the Maxx Crosby-led Raiders defense compared to the Cowboys, but the offensive line appears to be coming together. They’ll have momentum coming into the game, and if they can keep a clean pocket for Williams to operate in, the offense could continue their strong play from last week.
Expanding the playbook
Head coach Ben Johnson showed plenty of creativity against the Cowboys, especially with the 65-yard flea flicker touchdown pass from Caleb Williams to Luther Burden last week. For the first time in three games, Johnson showed the trickery he has up his sleeve and in his play-calling sheet for defenses to have to prepare for moving forward. One successful offensive showing doesn’t mean the head coach should reveal all of the tricks, but after Las Vegas just gave up 41 points to the Washington Commanders and backup quarterback Marcus Mariota, they’ve shown their vulnerable on the defensive side.
Caleb Williams and his ability to run
In their two losses this season, the Raiders defense has allowed opposing quarterbacks to have respectable rushing games, with Justin Herbert of the Chargers (31), and Marcus Mariota of the Commanders (40) using their legs to further their offensive success. While most of the focus and attention with Caleb Williams and Ben Johnson have been his ability to throw as a quarterback, Williams has shown a unique ability to use his legs to create plays and has the second-most rushing yards of the Bears (97) in three games. Williams could stretch out the Raiders defense and force them to have to focus on his ability to escape, which would likely mean more big windows in the passing game.
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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: 3 keys for Bears offense vs. Raiders in Week 4
Reporting by Mike Pendleton, Bears Wire / Bears Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
