Streaks
The Raiders have won three of the last five meetings and lead the all-time series, 6-5.
Last week
The Bears were on a bye following a 16-7 loss to the Lions in Week 8. The host Raiders outscored the Texans 17-7 in the second half, but it wasn't enough as Oakland dropped its fourth consecutive game, 24-17. Raiders running back Justin Fargas rushed for 104 yards, the second time he has topped 100 rushing yards in a game this season.
At stake
The Bears, just months removed from the Super Bowl, are tied with the Vikings in the NFC North cellar. But Chicago could certainly make a run in the second half of the season and get into the playoff race. The Raiders have struggled but are still only two games behind first-place Kansas City and San Diego in the AFC West.
Key matchup
Bears running back Cedric Benson vs. Raiders defensive line. The Bears showed a lot of faith in Benson by trading Thomas Jones to the New York Jets. But Benson has not responded, surpassing 100 rushing yards only once this season. The Bears will likely rely heavily on Benson in this game; the Raiders are one of the toughest teams in the NFL defending the pass and rank 30th in rushing defense, allowing 153 yards per game. This looks like an ideal matchup for the Bears to get their enigmatic running back up to speed.
Did you know?
The Raiders might have the best chance of shutting down standout return man Devin Hester, who has eight career touchdown returns. Oakland kicker Sebastian Janikowski leads the NFL with 18 touchbacks, and punter Shane Lechler is tied for the NFL lead with a 50.3 punting average.
