Short week = short preview. This game is must win for both teams if they even want to sniff the playoffs. Early in the season, both of these teams like like serious NFC contenders. Now, they are mediocre teams trying to keep their season alive.
Key Factors
The bears defense has been horrible and this team is not built to win solely on its offense. The team has to rediscover its defensive identity or it will only get uglier from here.
The 49ers have a very good defense and held Peyton & Co. to 18 pts last week. Alex Smith seems to have some life and is trying to get his name to stop being mentioned in the same breath as Tim Couch.
Key Matchups
Kruetz v. Patrick Willis - Arguably, Willis is the best inside LB in the game. Can Kruetz and his buddies, Garza & Beekman actually get to the 2nd level and block Willis. If not, Willis will be playing in Matt Forte's backfield and there the running game will grind to a halt. If that happens, the bears once again will have no time of possession and have to rely on Cutler's arm and we know how that storyline plays out.
Frank Gore v. the entire bears front 7. - Can tommie harris make it to play 5 this week? does it matter? can the bears actually play in their assigned gaps and in some way resemble a good defense? If they can stop gore, then i will take my chances with alex smith trying to make plays.
Prediction
The bears have to come out with emotion and with purpose otherwise their season could be over after this game. Bears 24-Niners 15
Critical Performer
Johnny Knox. The bears need a big play to get this team going. Whether it be a big return or a long pass play, Knox is the player who can break a play at anytime. Look for a deep shot to him in the 1st quarter and hope him and jay connect.
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