The NFL’s Week 17 concludes with a critical matchup on Sunday Night Football, pitting the Chicago Bears (11-4) against the San Francisco 49ers (11-4). Fans can catch the action at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC and Peacock.
The Bears have seen a remarkable resurgence this season, largely credited to head coach Ben Johnson. With the prospect of capturing their first NFC North title since 2018, Chicago is poised for a strong finish with just one more victory required. Quarterback Caleb Williams has emerged as a key player under Johnson’s guidance, currently ranking 11th in passing yards with 3,400 and 7th in completions of 20 or more yards with 50 successful passes.
As the matchup approaches, there is significant interest in Caleb Williams’ performance against the 49ers. He has been impressive in recent games, surpassing the projected 224.5 passing yards in three of his last five outings. Notably, the 49ers’ passing defense ranks 24th, which could provide an opportunity for Williams to excel. San Francisco’s defense has already demonstrated vulnerability, allowing 44-year-old Philip Rivers to throw for 277 yards in a recent game.
With just two games left in the season, Williams is on the brink of breaking the Bears’ single-season passing yard record, which is currently held by Erik Kramer with 3,838 yards set in 1995. According to Pro Football Focus, the Bears have excelled in pass protection, ranking third in pass block grade, while the 49ers have struggled, landing 27th in pass rush grade.
The stakes are particularly high for both teams, as each seeks not only the division title but also a potential No. 1 seed in the NFC. The matchup offers fans an array of betting opportunities, especially surrounding Williams’ projections, including his passing and rushing yards. The anticipation builds as the Bears and 49ers prepare to battle under the lights, each team with plenty to play for in this critical late-season showdown.