Oakland Raiders: Notes and Observations From Week Four

Oct 4, 2015; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Eddie Royal (19) is tackled by Oakland Raiders cornerback Neiko Thorpe (31) during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports

Get Off The Field!

Third down was the Achilles Heel of Oakland’s defense on Sunday. Well – okay, it was one of many, truth be told. But the Oakland defense seriously was absolutely hot garbage on third downs against the Bears.

For the game, the Bears were able to convert 10 of 17 third down conversion attempts. 10 of 17! And a number of those conversions came at critical junctures of the game – such as Chicago’s game winning drive.

On that fateful drive, the Bears were able to convert not just one, but two third down conversion attempts to keep their drive going. Not only that, they were able to convert a fourth down and five, which allowed them to continue marching down the field for the decisive points.

It was a terrible sight to watch. Chicago was an offense led by a hobbled quarterback who was missing his top weapon in Alshon Jeffery, and was relying on Bennett and wide receiver Eddie Royal to carve up the Raiders’ defense – which they did handily.

The Bears made plays on third down all game long and for the most part, the Raiders had no answer for them. They couldn’t make the plays when they were needed most, the defense couldn’t get off the field, and by the end of the game, they were gassed and unable to stop the Bears from taking advantage of that.

If Oakland hopes to be competitive, they are going to have to solve that problem and solve it quickly.

Next: Under (No) Pressure