49ers (2-4) at Bears (3-4)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Soldier Field, Chicago
TV: Fox
Tipico Sportsbook line: 49ers
⁄2
1
49ers’ keys to victory: San Francisco’s offense is at its best when QB Jimmy Garoppolo is allowed to get the ball to his playmakers, including WRs Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk. The onus is on the offensive line to contend with a Bears pass rush that’s been one of the best in the NFL. On defense, the 49ers need to make the Chicago offense one-dimensional. Chicago has found success on the ground, whether it’s with currently injured RB David Montgomery or reserves Khalil Herbert and Damien Williams. San Francisco needs to contain QB Justin Fields inside the pocket and not allow him to win with his legs.
Bears’ keys to victory: Chicago’s defense has thrived on creating pressure with the front seven. OLB Khalil Mack and OLB Robert Quinn have been two of the NFL’s top pass rushers this season, and they’re going to need to bring pressure on Garoppolo to force him into mistakes. On offense, the Bears need to continue to establish a balanced attack, which starts with running the football against a 49ers defense giving up more than 100 rushing yards per game. Chicago’s offensive line is going to need to do a good job protecting its rookie quarterback against playmakers like DE Nick Bosa and DE Arik Armstead.
Matchup to watch: 49ers offensive line vs. Bears defensive line. Defensive coordinator Sean Desai lines up Mack and Quinn at different spots to create pressure off the edge and from the interior. The 49ers must protect Garoppolo.
Who wins? Chicago ekes out a close win thanks to their defense.
Bears, 20-17