San Francisco 49ers (6-7) – Chicago Bears (4-9): 38-13
Firing Matt Eberflus was perhaps not the solution to all the Bears' problems… In its first game after the coach's dismissal, Chicago was outrageously dominated and sank in attack (for a time) and defense.
The 49ers did not have to stretch their talent in the face of such adversity. The match was already over at halftime with a 24-point lead. But Kyle Shanahan's men needed this victory in style, especially in attack. What reassurance for the future?
Explosive 49ers
San Francisco quickly took off in this match, leading 24-0 at halftime. For this, the 49ers were able to count on an explosive attack like rarely this season. At halftime, the locals had already managed 8 actions for more than 20 yards and 11 for more than 15!
Everything started perfectly with a touchdown (7-0) on the first series for Jauan Jennings (7 rec, 90 yards, 2TD). Then it was the turn of the replacement, Isaac Guerendo (15 races, 78 yards, 2TD) to shine with a 27-yard reception followed by the running touchdown (14-0).
The 49ers widened the gap in the second quarter with a drive of 71 yards and 7 minutes where Jennings scored twice (2-0). The Californians continue to roll out and swallow the yards before returning to the locker room. Brock Purdy (20/25, 325 yards, 2TD) even thought about scoring on the ground before seeing his touchdown canceled. The locals then settle for a field goal (24-0).
Kyle Shanahan can smile, his attack has finally found its mojo. But we should not forget the defense in the case. This left no space for the Bears receivers and above all put constant pressure on Caleb Williams (17/24, 134 yards, 2TD), sacked 4 times at the break.
Obviously, when returning to the locker room, the bill is heavy for Chicago: 24 points behind, 4 yards gained (!) compared to 319 for the 49ers!
Chicago rebels but too late
In the second half, Chicago and Caleb Williams showed a better face. The rookie quarterback seems more comfortable when he can chain passes and play on a “first read”. He twice managed to find his rookie receiver, Romeo Odunze (4 recs, 42 yards, 2 TD), for touchdowns on well-constructed series.
Except that the Bears defense does not raise its level of play. The Illinois men continue to disappoint in the second half.
They first let Guerendo score his 2nd touchdown of the evening. Then, in the 4th quarter, they allowed the 49ers to achieve an offensive series of 70 yards and 6 minutes that the unknown Patrick Taylor concluded on the ground (38-13). Because yes, in the meantime, San Francisco saw its starting runner get injured. When it doesn't want…
By chasing the score, Chicago is too tight to hope for anything and logically loses this Sunday. With this victory, San Francisco can still hope to qualify for the playoffs.
