Raiders speed and Chicago’s injuries set the table for a tight Vegas tilt. Explosive plays pace the Raiders’ approach, while Crosby looms as the decisive edge in protection and pressure. Chicago must fend off rapid receivers and keep Geno Smith from heating up, leaning on a contested-catch game from Brock Bowers and a nimble run game to stay in a close fight. Expect one big late play to decide it, with both teams hungry for 0.500 relief.

Khalil Mack's swap to the Los Angeles Chargers is labeled a clear win for LA. Mack's 2023 season—17 sacks and 21 tackles for loss—spurred a Pro Bowl bid and helped stabilize the edge after a midseason return from injury. Chicago turned the return into Jaquan Brisker, Elijah Hicks and Trenton Gill, but still hasn't found a true pass-rush fix. A Montez Sweat pursuit faded, leaving the deal tilted toward the Chargers on balance.

Chicago heads home 0-2 with a must-win vibe against Dallas. Caleb Williams must seize the moment, especially with Dallas missing key pass rushers. Rome Odunze has become the reliable spark, piling up receptions and red-zone scores. Montez Sweat and Jaquan Brisker must elevate their play to steady a fragile defense, while Colston Loveland and Cole Kmet have to be integrated more, leveraging Johnson’s scheme to stretch Dallas’ defense.