49ers football players celebrating on a dusk stadium field with confetti and a scoreboard showing 42-38

49ers Defeat Bears 42-38, Lock In NFC West Title

At a Glance

> At a Glance

> – 49ers beat Bears 42-38 on Sunday Night Football

> – 49ers move to 12-4, setting up a No.1 seed and NFC West title

> – Brock Purdy throws five touchdowns, 303 yards, and a pick-six

> – Why it matters: The win secures the 49ers’ playoff advantage and showcases a record-tying performance by Purdy.

On Sunday night, the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Chicago Bears 42-38 in Week 17, cementing their spot at the top of the NFC West. The victory pushed the 49ers to a 12-4 record and gave them a chance to clinch the conference’s No.1 seed. A standout performance from rookie quarterback Brock Purdy, who threw five touchdowns and 303 yards, highlighted the win.

Game Highlights

The game opened with a dramatic pick-six by Purdy on the first play, setting a high-energy tone that lasted the entire contest. Despite the early setback, the 49ers rallied, scoring multiple touchdowns in each quarter. The Bears, meanwhile, stayed close, but could not overcome the 49ers’ offensive momentum.

  • First play: Brock Purdy pick-six
  • George Kittle out with ankle sprain
  • Trent Williams hamstring injury
  • Caleb Williams had a chance for a hero play

Key Performances

Brock Purdy finished the game with 303 passing yards, three passing touchdowns, and two rushing scores, becoming the second consecutive quarterback to record five touchdowns in back-to-back games. Running back Christian McCaffrey rushed for 140 yards on 23 carries, adding a touchdown and 41 receiving yards on four catches. Defensive contributions were limited, with the Bears recording only 440 total yards compared to the 49ers’ 496.

Team Total Yards
49ers 496
Bears 440

Season Implications

With the win, the 49ers improve to 12-4 and will host the 13-3 Seattle Seahawks next Saturday. The matchup will determine the NFC West champion and the No.1 seed. Chicago, now 11-5, can finish only as the No.2 seed at best.

Key Takeaways

  • 49ers lock in No.1 seed and NFC West title.
  • Brock Purdy‘s five-touchdown game is a rare feat.
  • 49ers’ offensive production outpaced Bears’ defense.
Brock Purdy throws a touchdown pass with ball in mid-air while Christian McCaffrey rushes toward the end zone.

The 49ers’ triumph not only sets the stage for a high-stakes showdown with the Seahawks but also cements the team’s status as a championship contender heading into the playoffs.

Author

  • I’m Olivia Bennett Harris, a health and science journalist committed to reporting accurate, compassionate, and evidence-based stories that help readers make informed decisions about their well-being.

    I’m Olivia Bennett Harris, a health and science journalist committed to reporting accurate, compassionate, and evidence-based stories that help readers make informed decisions about their well-being. Based in Philadelphia, I focus on the intersection of medical research, public health policy, and everyday life.

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