Bears battle red-hot 49ers for playoff positioning. Can Chicago's defense exploit turnovers and injures to secure a crucial win?
After clinching a playoff spot in Week 16, there's still a lot to play for in Week 17.
The Chicago Bears are the No. 2 seed and sit atop the NFC North after taking down the Green Bay Packers 22-16 at Soldier Field.
The No. 1 seed in the NFC is still on the table, but the Bears will need some help. Chicago needs to win its last two games regardless, but also needs the Seattle Seahawks to lose one of their last two.
For any of that to matter, the Bears will need to beat the red-hot San Francisco 49ers on Sunday Night Football. San Francisco has won its last five games and has a shot at the No. 1 seed, too. Just like Chicago, San Francisco needs to win out.
The 49ers play the Seahawks next week, so they could take the No. 1 seed if they go 2-0 in their final two games.
Here's how Chicago can stop one of the league's most efficient teams:
Can't Rely on Field Goals
In their last game against the Packers, the Bears didn't score a touchdown until the last two minutes of the fourth quarter.
That can't happen again in Week 17, especially with how dangerous the 49ers offense can be. Even with all the injuries this season, the 49ers still average the ninth-most points (26.1), ninth-most total yards (353.7) and fifth-most passing yards per game (259.2).
The Bears have struggled to stop opposing offenses all year and need to be prepared for an offensive shootout at Levi's Stadium.
Bears' Defense Could Feast on Turnover-Happy 49ers
The Bears lead the league with 31 forced turnovers heading into Week 17.
As fate would have it, the 49ers come into the matchup with the 10th-most turnovers at 20. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen and his defense could have a bountiful day going up against San Francisco.
Brock Purdy has eight interceptions coming into the game. If the Bears' pass rush can get home, things could get ugly for San Francisco.
Take Advantage of Key Injuries
The 49ers are dealing with key injuries on the defensive side of the ball.
Pass rusher Nick Bosa (ACL), linebacker Fred Warner (ankle) and rookie defensive lineman Mykell Williams (ACL). Both Bosa and Williams are out for the year, and Warner is eyeing a return during the playoffs.
Either way, Chicago needs to make sure to capitalize on the 49ers' injured defense on the road.
Sunday's game will kick off at 7:20 p.m. CT on NBC and Peacock.