Oakland Raiders 2015 Schedule: Predicting The Team’s Wins and Losses

Dec 15, 2014; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears quarterback Jay Cutler (6) is sacked by New Orleans Saints outside linebacker Kasim Edebali (91) in the first half of their game at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

Week 4: @Chicago Bears (2014 Record: 5-11)

2014 didn’t go nearly as Chicago had been planning. But with a new coaching regime headed by John Fox, the Bears are likely head back toward sunnier days. Those sunnier days just might not be in 2015. With all of the changes and turnover in the Windy City, it’s going to take a little time for Chicago to get back on the right track.

Yes, they still have Matt Forte. But gone is Brandon Marshall, who along with Alshon Jeffrey, were a pretty lethal one-two punch. Without a threat like Marshall on the field, teams are going to be able to key on Jeffrey and do a better job of shutting him down.

And then of course, Chicago has one big problem still to deal with – Jay Cutler.

Statistically, Cutler had a good season. 3,812 yards passing, a 66% completion rate, and 28 touchdowns. Of course, his attitude and the fact that he seemed to turn the ball over on every other play really helped destroy the Bears’ season.

Add in the fact that under Fox, the Bears will be switching from a 4-3 base defense to a 3-4, and you are going to see a defense that will struggle for a little while as players get used to new roles and responsibilities. Chicago’s defense will be good, and they’ve added some good pieces, but it’s going to take a bit to gel. And it certainly won’t be as simple as plug and play, though Moton seems to believe it will be.

"“Don’t expect a field day against the Bears defense reminiscent of last year. Fox will improve the defense with a few tweaks. Jared Allen, Ray McDonald, Antrel Rolle and Kyle Fuller will all be Pro Bowl candidates in 2015.”"

If the Raiders defense can shut down Forte, slow down Jeffrey, and put the game all on Cutler’s shoulders, they are going to be in good shape. History teaches us that Cutler will fold under the pressure and will likely throw a costly interception. Until proven otherwise, there is no reason to believe it won’t play out that way again.

Prediction: WIN

Bears 17; Raiders 28

Record: 4-0

Next: Week Five: Denver Broncos