Sebastian Janikowski kicked a team-record six field goals and the Raiders took advantage of three interceptions from Chicago’s fill-in starter Caleb Hanie to beat the Bears 25-20 Sunday.
Carson Palmer threw for 301 yards and Michael Bush iced the game with a touchdown run in the fourth quarter to lead the Raiders (7-4) to their third straight win against a Bears team missing starting quarterback Jay Cutler.
Despite converting only three out of 15 third down opportunities, Palmer completed the game-clinching 47-yard connection with Louis Murphy on 3rd and 4 from midfield.
One play later, Bush scored the Raiders only touchdown of the game, from three yards out.
Key first half play: Kamerion Wimbley caught an interception that was tipped by Aaron Curry, a pass from Hanie that was intended for Bears tight end Kellen Davis on a misdirection screen. Chicago was at the Oakland 7, with less than a minute remaining in the first half, with the Raiders ahead 9-7. The takeaway led to a Janikowski FG before half, putting the Silver and Black in front 12-7.
Balance, big plays: Palmer hooked up with six different Raider receivers on completions of at least 12 yards.
Next: Sunday December 4 at Miami Dolphins, 10 AM PT.