There's an enormous game set to take place on Monday Night Football. It pits two teams with winning records against each other in a bid for the NFC's final wild card spot.

The San Francisco 49ers (7-4) and Carolina Panthers (6-5) can ill afford to lose the game, but there is an interesting storyline to go with the high stakes.

Former Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey is set to take on his former team.

Make no mistake, McCaffrey was a beloved figure in Carolina where he broke out on the NFL scene after an impressive college career at Stanford. Now he's a key member of the San Francisco 49ers.

Earlier this week, McCaffrey reflected on his time in Carolina sharing one regret he has about how the trade unfolded.

"One of the things that makes me sad looking back, I couldn't say bye to any of my teammates," McCaffrey shared. "I wish I could have just said bye to them. But I was on a flight at 7 a.m. on Friday, so it was a quick turnaround."

Certainly the bond between teammates is strong, but the businesslike nature of the NFL can be unavoidable. McCaffrey expanded on his thoughts about the trade.

"Getting traded to San Francisco has opened my eyes to so much. It was a massive blessing, (but) it was also a bittersweet moment for me at the time. I loved Charlotte. I loved Carolina… I loved my teammates. I was a captain on that team, and so it's weird when you get traded in the middle of the year. But when I look back on my journey and what's transpired since then, I can't help but look back and just be so grateful for the opportunity to come to San Fran and also call this place home."

The trade has worked out for McCaffrey who has been able to play for a consistent contender in San Francisco. His former team is starting to emerge as a contender as well.

The Panthers have done well enough to eclipse the .500 mark at 6-5 but one player in particular had a breakout game of late. Panthers quarterback Bryce Young appears to be putting things together after a 448-yard, three touchdown game against the Atlanta Falcons.

What is for sure is that the game will be must see TV for die hard NFL fans. The Niners will look to head into Thanksgiving with a meaningful win for perhaps their top offensive weapon in McCaffrey.