Bears Travel to San Francisco for Thursday Night Game

The Chicago Bears will have to have a short memory following their 41-21 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, because they will only have a few days to prepare for their Thursday night showdown against the San Francisco 49ers. Just like the Bears (4-4), the 49ers (3-5) are coming off a disappointing loss, and are looking to rebound.

Jay Cutler could possibly have another career day passing going up against a San Francisco defense that is ranked 24 th in the league against the pass. The Bears are looking for a repeat performance from their receivers. Devin Hester and Earl Bennett both were a few yards shy from each having a 100-yard day against Arizona, and Greg Olsen had his first multi-touchdown game with three. Of course, Cutler’s productivity depends on whether the offensive line improves their pass protection. But the bigger test for the o-line will be opening up holes for Matt Forte. The 49ers’ run defense is the fourth best in the NFL, giving up an average of 93.2 yards per game.

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The Bears’ secondary may struggle with injuries to both starting safeties Kevin Payne, and rookie Al Afalava. It is said that Payne (back) will not play, while Afalava (shoulder) is listed as questionable. More than likely, Danieal Manning and Josh Bullocks will have to step in at the safety positions, along with Nathan Vasher, who has been moved from cornerback to safety the past couple of games. Up front, Chicago will look to improve on their pass rush, which has been nonexistent over the past few games. Along with a revamped pass rush, the Bears will also focus on stopping 49ers running back Frank Gore. Even though San Francisco’s run offense is ranked 21 st in the NFL, Gore has shown earlier this season that he has big play potential by ripping touchdown runs of 64, 79, and 80 yards.

Both the Chicago Bears and the San Francisco 49ers will be going into this game with very little time for preparation. It looks as if the Bears may have the advantage, because San Francisco has lost five of their last six games. The only down side for the Bears is that they have to travel clear across the country for this contest. Any laziness that both teams may have will be replace by the emotion that will come with the fact that 49ers head coach Mike Singletary will be facing the franchise that he lead to victory in Super Bowl XX.

By Clyde Speller
ProFootball-fans.com Chicago Bears Correspondent