Bears-49ers Preview 11/17/12
By: Scott Leber
Updated: November 20, 2012
The Bears couldn't pass their test against the Texans last Sunday night. They'll have to play better this time in a game that could have much bigger playoff implications down the road.
"We're back in the NFC also. It's a big game for us," says Lovie Smith. "We realize that we didn't have a lot of success the last time we played out there."
As good as the Bears defense is, it could be argued that the 49ers has been better in some ways. The Niners have given up the fewest points in the NFL, and they're ranked third in the NFL in total defense...two notches ahead of the Bears.
While the 49ers are known for their defense, they've got some weapons on offense that have the Bears concerned.
Running back Frank Gore has rushed fore more 753 yards, and he's averaging almost five and a half yards per carry. Vernon Davis is one of the best tightends in the NFL. And the niners have a formidable receiving corps that includes Randy Moss and Michael Crabtree.
"There are a lot of things that we're going to have to deal with," says Smith.
What kind of problems does Michael Crabtree pose for the Bears secondary?
"He's a good receiver, fast, sneaky," says Bears Safety Major Wright.
Niners quarterback Alex Smith leads the NFL in completion percentage, but he's expected to sit out this game while he recovers from a concussion. His backup Colin Kapernick is solid completing more than 61 percent of his passes in limited action.
"Last week I think he was 11 of 17 or something like that," says Smith. "He came in and really got into a rhythm."
The Niners also have this going for them, they're the second winningest team in Monday Night Football history with 42 prime time wins.
