For the last month, the 49ers have been feasting on the NFL’s middle class (at best), stacking five straight wins like poker chips. But beating the Titans or the Colts is like winning a sparring match. Nice for the record, sure, but it doesn’t tell you if you can take a punch.

Sunday night against the also 11-4 Chicago Bears? Now that’s a worthy adversary — the first of two playoff games the 49ers will play before the playoffs officially start.

A win here does more than secure a sixth-straight victory; it sets the table for a blockbuster Week 18 showdown against the Seattle Seahawks for the NFC West crown and the conference’s No. 1 seed.

But to get to that winner-take-all finale, they first have to survive a Chicago team that has found its swagger.

So much swagger. Like, a curious amount of swagger for a team whose marquee win required an onside kick recovery to beat a backup quarterback.

Alas, they have every opportunity to back it up on Sunday.

Can the Niners’ beleaguered defense hold against one of the league’s best tacticians with a headset and talents at quarterback?

Can Brock Purdy and Kyle Shanahan keep the Niners’ offense humming if the irreplaceable George Kittle (didn’t practice all week, officially designated as questionable with an ankle injury) cannot play?

This game has all the makings of a shootout that should make Purdy and Williams (Iowa State and Oklahoma) feel like they’re back in college.

That’s precisely the kind of test this 49ers team needs right now.

Here are three predictions for Sunday night:

The 49ers Don’t Just Win, They Blow the Doors Off: I started the week thinking this might be a high-scoring, back-and-forth type of game, but I’m changing my tune.

I’m done predicting close games for the 49ers. They will play nothing but blowouts — one way or another, the rest of the year.

I think this way is a win.

The 49ers have flaws on top of flaws, but they are a more buttoned-up, lethal offense right now, while the Bears are high on their own supply after stealing a miracle win last week.

I trust Kyle Shanahan and Brock Purdy infinitely more than I trust the erratic brilliance of Caleb Williams or the too-cute-by-half Ben Johnson.

The 49ers are going to turn this into a track meet, and the Bears, a markedly worse third-down team than the Niners, won’t be able to keep pace.

Upton Stout Is the Key: The rookie nickelback is the X-factor in this game. The Bears’ offense lives and dies by tight splits, bunch formations, and confusion — specifically targeting the slot. They’ll destroy you in the run game if you go with base, three-linebacker formations.

If Stout can handle the communication and be a positive factor in the run game (as he was against the Colts), the Bears’ offense can stall. If Stout struggles, the 49ers get gashed.

I’m betting the ascending rookie holds his own.

Caleb Williams Gets Tricked into Mistakes: Williams is undeniably talented, but he plays with questionable feel for the rhythm of the NFL game.

He extends plays unnecessarily and is prone to being baited. The 49ers don’t need to do anything exotic on defense; they just need to be disciplined.

My prediction is that Williams gets bored taking what’s there, tries to play hero ball against a zone coverage he misreads, and gifts the 49ers the turnovers that turn this game into the blowout I’m expecting.

Final Score: 44 – 29 49ers.

This season, the Bears have parlayed six fourth-quarter comebacks into serious contention for Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium on Feb. 8.

But first at that venue Sunday night comes a Bears-49ers matchup that could dictate if either snags the NFC’s No. 1 seed and easiest path to the Lombardi Trophy. Both teams sport 11-4 records entering the penultimate game of the regular season, both are eying division titles.

“It is a really good feeling to have home-field advantage,” left tackle Trent Williams said. “Everybody that was here in ’23, I know they can remember the roar of the crowd and how just the atmosphere of playoff football here is different.”

The Bears, currently the No. 2 seed behind the Seattle Seahawks, will clinch the NFC North by beating the 49ers, so long as they didn’t already secure that title via a Packers’ loss Saturday night to Baltimore.

The 49ers, currently the No. 5 seed, could seize the No. 1 seed and the NFC West if they hold serve against the Bears and then knock off Seattle (12-3) in next weekend’s regular-season finale. (The Seahawks can make that matchup moot if they lock up the No. 1 seed Sunday by absurdly combining a 49ers-Bears tie with a Seattle win at Carolina and a Los Angeles Rams’ loss or tie Monday night at Atlanta.)

Here are five keys to a 49ers victory over the Bears, who are seeking only their third division title since their 2006 team lost in the Super Bowl:

1. WIN TURNOVER BATTLE

The Bears are the NFL’s best at winning the turnover battle. Their plus-21 mark (31 takeaways, 10 turnovers) is six better than the NFL’s next team (Houston), and it’s a glaring reminder how deficient the 49ers are (16 takeaways, 20 turnovers).

Brock Purdy is coming off Monday night’s five-touchdown masterpiece, slightly tainted by a fourth-quarter interception off Kendrick Bourne’s hands. That is the lone interception off Purdy in his past 3 ½ games and 112 passes, since a three-interception fiasco before halftime of the 49ers’ Nov. 24 win over Carolina.

The Bears’ best interceptors, so to speak, are all battling health issues: Kevin Byard (six interceptions), Nahshon Wright (five), and Tremaine Edumonds (four). Wright also has three fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles; the James Logan High and Laney College product gae inspiring tributes after John Beam’s slaying last month at Laney.

Christian McCaffrey didn’t lose either of his fumbles (vs. Jacksonville and Carolina) among his NFL-leading 372 touches.

2. STAY ALERT FOR CALEB

Caleb Williams, last year’s No. 1 overall draft pick, is humming along with 3,400 passing yards, 369 rushing yards and a 57.8% completion mark. He’s thrown 23 touchdown passes against six interceptions, but five of those interceptions have come on the road (with 10 touchdown passes).

Williams won’t have Rome Odunze for a fourth straight game, so the 49ers can focus their coverage on D.J. Moore (664 yards, six touchdowns) and tight end Colstand Loveland (528, four).

Williams got sacked a NFL-high 68 times last season, but he’s lowered that to 23 times this season, including 10 in the fourth quarter.

“It feels like when he starts scrambling, he gets more accurate. He is really, really dangerous when he leaves the pocket and he’s on the run,” defensive coordinator Robert Saleh said. “… He’s improved tremendously from a year ago.”

In the Bears’ 38-13 loss last December at Levi’s Stadium, Williams passed for just 134 yards, but he threw for two touchdowns with no turnovers.

3. RUN DEFENSE

The 49ers must prove that their run defense’s improvement was more than a mirage Monday at Indianapolis, where Jonathan Taylor fell out of the NFL rushing lead and gained just 46 yards on 16 carries.

The Bears boast the NFL’s second-best rushing average (152.1 per game; Buffalo is at 158.9 ypg). They’re dividing and conquering behind D’Andre Swift (993 yards, seven touchdowns, 204 carries) and seventh-round rookie Kyle Monangi (731 yards, three touchdowns, 155 carries).

Linebacker Tatum Bethune, despite aggravating an ankle injury Monday, should be OK directing the 49ers’ run defense. That push really starts up front with interior linemen Jordan Elliott, Kalia Davis, Alfred Collins and C.J. West.

The Bears favor running to their right, although it’s center Drew Dalman and left guard Joe Thuney who earned Pro Bowl honors while right tackle Darnell Wright got snubbed along with Nahshon Wright.

4. KITTLE CONUNDRUM

Tight end George Kittle attempted to play through a low-ankle sprain Monday night before getting sidelined through the fourth quarter – and possibly through this game against his childhood team after not practicing all week.

The 49ers are 10-14 without Kittle since 2017, but they went 3-2 this season after his Week 1 hamstring injury. Fellow tight ends Jake Tonges and Luke Farrell could get more run, but the 49ers also have fullback Kyle Juszczyk ready to fill some of Kittle’s multiple roles.

If Ricky Pearsall can return and push through a right-knee injury, then Purdy won’t so predictable in targeting Jauan Jennings and McCaffrey.

5. FINISH. FINISH. FINISH.

The Bears are producing fourth-quarter comebacks in historic fashion: They’re the first team to win six games after trailing in the final two minutes of regulation. Last week, they erased a 10-point deficit to the Green Bay Packers and won 22-16 in overtime to clinch their first playoff berth since 2020.

Over the past eight weeks, the Bears have scored a NFL-high 83 points in the fourth quarter and overtime.

The 49ers are 10-0 in games they’ve led at halftime, though they did rally after surrendering fourth-quarter leads in wins against Arizona (Week 3) and Los Angeles (Week 5).

On the flip side, the Bears have not allowed an opening-drive score in their past seven games and yielded just 10 opening-drive points all season, fewest in the league.

It’s a must-win game for the 49ers on the road to capturing the NFC West crown and No. 1 seed in the playoffs. They may be without star tight end George Kittle and receiver Ricky Pearsall, who are battling injuries.

The 49ers also have two games to prepare a playoff-inexperienced defense without injured leaders Fred Warner and Nick Bosa for the postseason stage. Warner suffered a fractured and dislocated ankle in October but the 49ers are not ruling out a potential return if they make a deep playoff run.

How to watch on local TV

NBC is broadcasting the game nationally; in the Bay Area, tune in to KNTV-TV (channel 11) with an antenna or a cable TV provider. You can also log in to the NBC Sports app or website with your cable TV subscription credentials.

How to stream

DirecTV Stream includes NBC in its local channel lineup. Subscriptions currently start at $29.99 per month.

FuboTV offers a free trial and $10 off the first month; after that, it is $55.99 per month.

Hulu+Live TV is a premium service with all the local channels and is $89.99 per month.

NFL+ is an app that streams all local and prime-time games. Plans start at $6.99 per month.

Peacock is a streaming service from NBCUniversal and starts at $7.99 a month.

YouTube TV costs $82.99 per month, but it’s currently on sale for $72.99 per month for the first three months.

Kittle, along with wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, is questionable for when the 49ers (11-4) host the NFC North-leading Bears (11-4). Official moves are not due until 90 minutes before the 5:20 p.m. kickoff at Levi’s Stadium.

“George told me he’d have a much better idea (Saturday). Hopefully we’ll know then,” coach Kyle Shanahan said after Friday’s practice.

Normally one of the most cooperative and enthusiastic interview subjects, Kittle was not available to the media this week. Pearsall said he was scheduled for treatment.

Kittle battled through pain and gathered seven receptions for 115 yards before watching the 49ers wrap up a 48-27 win over the Indianapolis Colts. He produced 151 yards on six catches last December when the 49ers beat the visiting Bears 38-13.

The 49ers went 3-2 without Kittle after his hamstring tear in the season opener at Seattle. Since Kittle was a rookie in Shanahan’s first season in 2017, the 49ers are 10-14 when Kittle doesn’t play (.416 winning percentage) and 71-52 when he does (.577).

Chicago has been preparing as if Kittle will be good to go.

Bears coach Ben Johnson said the 49ers are unique in that so much of their passing offense runs through Kittle (52 catches, 599 yards, seven touchdowns) and running back Christian McCaffrey (92 receptions, 849 yards, seven touchdowns).

“It’s kind of unorthodox that you’ve got the tight end and the running back as the guys that concern you the most and (Brock) Purdy does a great job finding receivers,” Johnson said.

When Kittle missed five games after tearing a hamstring muscle in Week 2, Jake Tonges became the No. 1 receiving tight end (25 receptions, 233 yards, four touchdowns) with Luke Farrell being primarily a blocking tight end (11 receptions, 85 yards, two touchdowns).

PEARSALL RETURN?

Pearsall was limited in practice after missing Monday night’s game because of a right-knee injury. He originally got hurt in a Sept. 28 loss to Jacksonville, missed the next six games, then aggravated his knee late in a Dec. 14 against Tennessee.

In the eight games he’s played, Pearsall have averaged 14.3 yards per catch, totaling 31 receptions for 443 yards and no touchdowns. He had 31 catches for 400 yards and three touchdowns in 11 games last season.

WILLIAMS’ PRO BOWL JOY

Left tackle Trent Williams celebrated his 12th Pro Bowl selection this week, noting how that’s been a goal for the past six or seven years to break a four-way tie with fellow offensive tackles Willie Roaf, Jonathan Ogden and Anthony Munoz for the most behind Bruce Matthews’ 14. “I definitely want to be at the top of the offensive tackle rankings,” Williams said. “But catching Bruce Matthews … I don’t know if I’ve got that in me but I’ll try.”

When it came to watching former 49ers teammate Deebo Samuel dislodge a Dallas Cowboys’ helmet in Washington’s game Thursday, Williams said: “That was the joy of my day. I was probably the first to call him after the game.”

DEFENSIVE HEALTH

Cornerback Renardo Green (neck) is improving but out a second straight game, likely leading to another start for Darrell Luter Jr.

Cornerback Darrell Luter Jr. will start his second straight game. He had two pass interference penalties against Indianapolis, although one was dubious, and according to Shanahan and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh, he made a big difference in slowing the Indianapolis running game.

“I disagreed with one of them, thought it was pretty good coverage,” Shanahan said of the PI call. “He had two runs that got to the corner that if they got past him, they probably have two more carries for about 55 yards and that changes the whole game.”

The 49ers’ defense is tracking toward better health to face the NFL’s second-best rushing attack. Linebacker Tatum Bethune (ankle) and defensive linemen Sam Okuayinonu (ankle) and Yetur Gross-Matos (hamstring) all were limited in practice.

JENNINGS’ FUN FINISH

Five of Jauan Jennings’ 17 receptions have gone for touchdowns over the past four games. “It’s been fun. Very fun. Very, very, very fun,” Jennings said.

As for finishing the regular season with home games against Chicago and Seattle, Jennings added: “That’s fun as well. No plane ride. That’s awesome.”

BEARS ILL

Chicago is dealing with a bout of illnesses ahead of their visit.

Cornerback Nick McCloud was ruled out for Chicago with an illness, as was wide receive Rome Odunze (foot). Cornerbacks Nahshon Wright and Josh Blackwell are questionable. Wright, who went to James Logan High and Laney College, also has a hamstring injury, while Blackwell missed the last two days of practice.

Linebacker D’Marco Jackson was ill but came off the injury report entirely, as did Duvernay.

“It’s this time of year,” Johnson told said. “I doubt we’re the only team dealing with it. We’re washing our hands, we’re very diligent. Guys have masks on. You do what you can. Whoever is available on game day we’ll look to win with. If a guy can’t go, we’ll be ready.”

Listed as questionable for the Bears are linebacker T.J. Edwards (glute) and cornerback C.J. Gardner-Johnson (knee). Wide receiver Luther Burden was cleared after playing last week with an ankle injury.

For Kittle, he’s battling a short recovery timeline to play Sunday night when the 49ers (11-4) host the Chicago Bears (11-4).

For Warner, he’s two months into an encouraging comeback from ankle surgery and is making the 49ers “re-examine” his potential for a late-playoff return.

General manager John Lynch updated each player’s health in his weekly segment Friday morning on KNBR. Here are Lynch’s comments:

On Fred Warner’s potential return for NFC Championship Game or Super Bowl:

“We’re really focused on the Bears right now. That’s because we need to continue to improve as a team and sharpen our edge as we get into these playoffs. Right now we’re playing for seeding, to try and make the path a little bit more favorable for us.

“What I can tell you is Fred has been working incredibly hard. He’s been attacking it every which way and he’s making really good progress.

“I’ve said this consistently: It would be well ahead of the original timeline that we were given but Fred has the ability to move the doctors, because they’re going to put objective measurements out there that, ‘If you can reach these, you can get there.’ And Fred has continually done that. It’s made a lot of people kind of re-examine, ‘OK, would this be possible?’ I think that’s a great thing.

“I’m watching him. I’ve consistently said I won’t put anything past him and it’s a thing that will remain to be seen. But I know he’s putting his heart and soul and incredible work ethic to work every single day in an effort to do that.

On George Kittle’s health and evaluating the risk for playoffs:

“That’s always a part of the equation with all our players, particularly with a player like George who’s so valuable to us.

“Of course you want George out there, and of course this is a huge game against the Bears.

“He had it stacked up against him in that it was a Monday night game on the Eastern side of our country, so you’re not flying back until 3:30 (a.m.). The clock is just shorter the amount of time you have to get back on the field. The things we have going for us is it wasn’t the dreaded high ankle sprain; it was the low ankle sprain.

“George is recovering really well. Is he going to get there? We don’t know. It’s one of those things he’ll take it right up (to kickoff). George is the type of player where you give him that latitude where, ‘We’ll give you all the way up to the game.’

“The other thing we feel real good about is we’re well equipped in the event we don’t have George. Will we be the same team? No, we’re different without George there. But Luke Farrell is a really good football player. We’ve seen what Jake Tonges can do when George is out. Brayden Willis would then be up.

“We’ll see where this thing goes. But George is doing everything he can, just like Fred, to try to be out there for this Bears game. That is one that will go right down to Sunday evening.”

Coach Kyle Shanahan will address the media late in the afternoon with an official injury report.

The Lions are staying home for the playoffs, the Packers are in the postseason and only one spot remains open in the NFC.

Detroit’s dismal performance in a 23-10 loss to Minnesota on Christmas Day eliminated the Lions (8-8) and allowed Green Bay (9-5-1) to clinch at least a wild-card berth.

The Packers join the NFC East champion Eagles (10-5), the Bears (11-5), Seahawks (12-3), 49ers (11-4) and Rams (11-4). The Panthers (8-7) and Buccaneers (7-8) are battling for the final playoff spot in the NFC.

Denver’s 20-13 victory over Kansas City on Thursday night moved the Broncos (13-3) closer toward securing the AFC West and the No. 1 seed.

The Patriots (12-3), Bills (11-4), Jaguars (11-4) and Chargers (11-4) also have clinched playoff spots. The Texans (10-5), Steelers (9-6), Colts (8-7) and Ravens (7-8) are fighting for the last two spots in the AFC.

The opening game of the NFL’s holiday tripleheader had no impact on the playoffs. Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys beat the Washington Commanders 30-23.

With 10 days remaining in the regular season, only Philadelphia has locked up a division title. Eleven of the 14 playoff spots have been secured and six teams are in the race for the last three.

Here’s an updated playoff picture:

NFC West

The Seahawks clinch the division with a victory over Carolina and a loss or tie by the Rams and a loss or tie by the 49ers or a tie against the Panthers and losses by the Rams and 49ers.

The 49ers would clinch the division and the No. 1 seed if they beat the Bears and Seahawks in their final two games at home.

The Rams still have a path to a division crown, but must finish with a better record than both Seattle and San Francisco.

NFC North

Chicago clinches with a win over San Francisco, a loss by Green Bay or if both teams tie.

The Packers have to win their final two games against the Ravens and Vikings and the Bears would have go 0-2 or 0-1-1 for Green Bay to win the division.

NFC East

The defending Super Bowl champion Eagles became the first team to win this division in consecutive seasons in two decades. They’ll be the NFC’s No. 2, 3 or 4 seed.

NFC South

Carolina clinches with a win over Seattle and a loss or tie by Tampa Bay. The Buccaneers clinch with victories over Miami and the Panthers in the final two games.

AFC East

New England clinches with a win over the Jets and a loss or tie by Buffalo or a tie against New York and loss by the Bills.

Buffalo would clinch with victories over Philadelphia and the Jets and if the Patriots lose to either the Jets or Dolphins.

AFC North

The Steelers clinch with a win or tie against the Browns or if the Ravens lose or tie the Packers on Saturday night.

The Ravens would clinch if Pittsburgh loses to Cleveland and they beat Green Bay and the Steelers in the final two games.

AFC South

Jacksonville clinches with a win over Indianapolis and a loss or tie by Houston or a tie against the Colts and a loss by the Texans.

Houston needs a win or tie over the Chargers or a loss or tie by the Colts to clinch a playoff spot. The Texans can win the division with victories over the Chargers and Colts in the final two games and one loss by the Jaguars against Indianapolis or Tennessee.

The Colts can’t win the division. They need Houston to lose to the Los Angeles Chargers on Saturday to stay alive. Indianapolis then has to beat Jacksonville on Sunday and the Texans next week to earn a wild-card spot.

AFC West

The Broncos clinch if the Chargers lose or tie Houston. Denver can also secure the AFC’s No. 1 seed this weekend if the Chargers lose or tie and the Patriots lose and the Bills lose or tie and the Jaguars lose or tie.

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Their young, patchwork defense so glaringly lacks playoff experience that defensive coordinator Robert Saleh recently summoned a couple of veterans to explain the playoff mindset that’s required going forth.

Safety Ji’Ayir Brown spoke up, having intercepted Patrick Mahomes as a rookie in the Super Bowl two seasons ago (spoiler alert: the 49ers lost).

Veteran Clelin Ferrell also talked, having reached last season’s NFC Championship Game with Washington but also having missed the 2023 49ers’ postseason because of a knee injury in the regular-season finale.

The only active 49ers defenders to ever start a playoff game in their careers are Brown and cornerback Deommodore Lenoir. Disclaimer: Fred Warner has started 12, and no one is officially ruling out a comeback next month while he rehabilitates from October’s right-ankle surgery.

“I’m really just stressing to the guys we have to be desperate, because in the playoffs, ain’t nobody going to lay down for us,” Lenoir said. “We can’t make the small mistakes. Everything has to be on point. We have to hit the ground running.”

The 49ers clinched a playoff berth nearly 24 hours before kickoff of their Monday night visit to Indianapolis by virtue of the Detroit Lions’ Sunday night loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

But once they allowed touchdowns on the Indianapolis Colts’ first two possessions Monday night, Saleh intervened to mentor his unit, a role Warner likely would have done if healthy and playing.

“Saleh brought us to the sideline and was saying, ‘Stop panicking,’” linebacker Dee Winters said. “We are a young defense. We have all the confidence in the world, so Saleh just pulled us aside and kind of told us to play our brand of football. Once we got settled in and the three-and-out, we built some momentum and won the game.”

Winters iced the 48-27 win in Indy with his first career interception, returning it 74 yards for a touchdown.

He is among the few 49ers defenders who have appeared in playoff games. None have started a postseason game outside of Lenoir and Brown. A few are rookies who are reminded to appreciate this possibly rare opportunity.

Playoff-like intensity will engulf the 49ers’ remaining regular-season games: Sunday night against the Chicago Bears, then the grand finale the next weekend against the Seattle Seahawks before the playoffs.

Safety Jason Pinnock played two playoff games two years ago with the Giants, so he’s emphasizing to teammates “just the seriousness of it, and this may be the last time this team is here together.”

This is not the 49ers defense of past playoff runs.

Their pass rush has been the NFL’s worst after starting defensive ends Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams were lost to ACL tears in Weeks 3 and 9, respectively. Their best pass rusher, Bryce Huff, was on the Eagles’ Super Bowl-winning team last season, only he was inactive that game and played just 12 snaps in their NFC Championship win.

Warner’s fractured ankle in Week 6 essentially could have collapsed Saleh’s unit. Instead, the 49ers have persevered, to the delight of those heading to their first playoffs.

“Playing for something extra, and playing in the playoffs, there’s nothing like it in the NFL,” defensive lineman Keion White said. “You see it when you’re growing up, and actually almost being there and sniffing it, you have something more to play for, and them as well.”

White never went to the postseason in three previous years with New England, nor in his five collegiate years between Old Dominion and Georgia Tech. Getting traded in October to the 49ers led to his first winning season since high school in Garner, North Carolina.

No one has appeared in more playoff games than Kevin Givens, a backup defensive tackle who played in nine games since his 2019 arrival as an undrafted free agent.

“Mindset and tempo, it’s playoff football. Everybody is on point with everything,” Givens said. “There’s not a lot of mistakes that happen in those games. Definitely more physicality, too. And you’re playing better teams. You basically have to be on your point.”

Givens said his rookie year’s team in 2019 boasted more veterans, such as Dee Ford and Richard Sherman.

“We’re pretty young this year,” Givens said.

Givens’ favorite playoff memory came four years in Dallas, where he made four tackles and shared a fourth-quarter sack in a 23-17 wild-card upset in January 2022.

Linebacker Luke Gifford was on that third-seeded Cowboys’ team, and he was part of the next year’s fifth-seeded squad that was eliminated at Levi’s Stadium in a 19-12 divisional-round win by the 49ers.

“Every game we played against the Niners, I always knew it was going to be a bloodbath, whether on defense or special teams,” Gifford said.

“I remember watching film of them in ’23 and being, ‘Oh my lord.’ Trent is one of those few guys you see on tape and you’re like, ‘What am I going to do about that?’ Same with Christian (McCaffrey) and Deebo (Samuel). Even that game I thought we’d roll them.”

Gifford defected this past offseason as a free agent coveted for his special teams ability. And he quickly embraced the 49ers’ aura.

“When I got here, I was amazed at how great the culture was and the foundation of everything,” Gifford said. “Then it was, ‘Ah, makes sense.’”

Here is a breakdown of each 49ers defender’s playoff history:

Defensive line

Kevin Givens: 9 games

Bryce Huff: 2 games (12 plays in NFC Championship Game win over Washington; inactive for Super Bowl win over Kansas City)

Clelin Ferrell: 4 games

Robert Beal Jr.: 3 games

Jordan Elliott: 3 games (Browns)

Sam Okuayinonu: 0

Keion White: 0

Yetur Gross-Matos: 0

Kalia Davis: 0 (2023 injured reserve)

Alfred Collins: 0

C.J. West: 0

Linebackers

Dee Winters: 3 (2023 49ers)

Tatum Bethune: 0

Curtis Robinson: 0

Luke Gifford: 2 (Cowboys)

Nick Martin: 0

*Eric Kendricks: 6 games, 6 starts (Vikings)

Defensive backs

Deommodore Lenoir: 6 games, 6 starts

Ji’Ayir Brown: 3 games, 2 starts

Renardo Green: 0

Malik Mustapha: 0

Jason Pinnock: 2 games (Giants)

Darrell Luter Jr.: 3

Chase Lucas: 3 (Lions)

Upton Stout: 0

Marques Sigle: 0

Eli Apple: 12 games, 11 starts (Giants, Saints, Bengals, Dolphins, Chargers)

*Practice squad

Coach Kyle Shanahan said on Wednesday that Kittle still has “a chance” to face the Bears as long as he was able to heal quick enough from his injury during Monday night’s win over Indianapolis.

San Francisco (11-4) has clinched a playoff spot and can earn the top seed in the NFC by beating the Bears (11-4) and Seattle (12-3) in the final two games of the season.

But losing Kittle would be a big blow to a San Francisco offense that has been operating at a high level during a five-game winning streak. The Niners have gone back-to-back games without having to punt for the first time in franchise history.
Kittle is a key part of both the run and pass game for the 49ers. The Niners’ running game has improved since Kittle returned after missing five games early this season with a hamstring injury.

Meanwhile, 49ers receiver Ricky Pearsall practiced on a limited basis for the second straight day on Thursday, meaning he has a shot to take the field Sunday. Pearsall, who missed Monday’s game with a knee injury, has 31 catches for 443 yards on the season.

Should the 49ers try to get Gronk out of retirement if Kittle can’t go Sunday night or the following week? (@SFG_soccer)

Don’t disrespect Jake Tonges like that. Did you not see his touchdown catch last game? Eh, neither did Kyle Shanahan, who didn’t have time to challenge a call that could have given Tonges his fourth TD, and it was moot once Christian McCaffrey scored on the next quick-snap play.

Tonges can catch, but no one in the NFL can replicate Kittle’s all-around ability, including as a run blocker and hype man (pregame, during the game, after the game). Kittle did not practice on Wednesday but has a chance to play Sunday night, and I’d be surprised if he skips this one against the Bears, his childhood team.

If Saleh leaves for a head coach job, will the 49ers receive draft picks again? (@matty__maff)

No. Draft-pick compensation is rewarded for candidates who’ve been employed a minimum of two years “with no break in employment between teams.” Robert Saleh, after four years abroad, indeed has been uplifting and inspiring in his second stint as defensive coordinator. He’ll make a great head coach, if it’s an opposite situation than what he had with the New York Jets, where ownership and quarterback issues plagued him.

Who will be the X-factor in the 49ers’ march toward the Super Bowl? (@quytennis)

Thomas Morstead. (Joking: Niners haven’t punted since Nov. 30.) For their defense’s sake, it ought be a pass rusher who comes alive. Bryce Huff, Keion White, Clelin Ferrell, Sam Okuayinonu and Yetur Gross-Matos all are hunting for their first playoff sack.

Are there any mercenary DEs out there the Niners would consider calling for the playoff run? (@borkerchorker)

Nah, although Justin Smith, 46, is only two years older than Philip Rivers. I’d be more curious if they try poaching a defensive end off another’s practice squad.

If Purdy gets injured, can Mac Jones take us to the Super Bowl? Who will be 3rd emergency quarterback down the Niners during the playoffs? (@quytennis)

Brock Purdy is peaking, having preyed on bad defenses (and avoided Myles Garrett) to rev the 49ers into Super Bowl form. The defenses will get tougher. Jones already has been a fill-in savior (5-3 record), so he could thrive again, but Purdy has an extra dynamic and veteran feel of this scheme. Adrian Martinez is back on the practice squad as QB3, barring a surprise activation of Kurtis Rourke, whose three-week practice window closes Sunday.

Who are your unsung 49ers heroes on offense, defense, and special teams this year? (@michael_budd)

Offensively, rather than crown Mac Jones for keeping the ship alive, I’m going with the steady and overlooked crew across the offensive line. Defensively, cornerback Deommodore Lenoir has just five pass breakups but he’s made every start, played over 98 percent of the snaps and has two interceptions to share the team lead with Ji’Ayir Brown. Special teams, it’s Eddy “The Hero” Piñeiro.

It’s hard to miss since every talking head locally and nationally, as well as mainstream media and the blogosphere, has brought it up.

The guess here is he’s running behind Sunday night’s opponent, Ben Johnson of the Chicago Bears, or maybe Mike Vrabel of New England.

“In the conversation” is usually code for “won’t win.” Not that Shanahan isn’t deserving, guiding the 49ers to an 11-4 record despite losing Nick Bosa and Fred Warner for the season as well as Brock Purdy and George Kittle for large chunks of it.

The Bears are one of the NFL’s best stories, going from 6-11 to 11-4 and currently the No. 2 NFC seed behind Seattle. Johnson is a rookie head coach. The Bears have two one-and-dones in the playoffs since 2011. He’ll probably get the most votes and won’t be undeserving. Shanahan will be looked at more as an established coach who is coming off a one-off losing season in 2024 rather than resurrecting a moribund franchise.

Shanahan may be the best coach in the postseason however, even with a pair of blown leads to the Kansas City Chiefs in two Super Bowls. He’s 8-4 in the playoffs and don’t be surprised if they win a time or two again this season, although hosting Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium on Feb. 8 is a tall order with a so-so defense with no pass rush.

There are a lot of solid candidates for COY, more than I can remember. Here is a subjective ranking of the coaches as it pertains to the postseason:

1. Kyle Shanahan, 49ers: The 49ers have made a good showing every year and were in position to win every playoff game he has coached other than the NFC title game against the Eagles when Brock Purdy left with an elbow injury in the first quarter.

2. Sean McVay, L.A. Rams: He’s 8-5 with six playoff appearances and one Super Bowl ring after the 2021 season. The Lions were the only team to give Philadelphia a game last year.

3. Sean Payton, Broncos: Payton is 9-8 with a win in Super Bowl XLIV in New Orleans. His call of an onside kick to open the second half against Indianapolis was as gutsy as it gets.

4. DeMeco Ryans, Texans: Surprised? Ryans has put together his most buttoned-up team with a dominant defense. He is 2-2 in the postseason.

5. Nick Sirianni, Eagles: Still not sure which direction the Eagles are headed, but Sirianni is coaching the defending champions, has been to the Super Bowl twice and has a 6-3 postseason record despite constant changes with coordinators.

6. Mike Macdonald, Seahawks: Making his postseason debut after coaching the Seahawks to a 10-7 record as a rookie. Seattle is the current top seed at 12-3.

7. Ben Johnson, Bears: Probably still smarting from losing to the 49ers despite a 24-7 lead as Lions offensive coordinator in the NFC title game after the 2023 season.

8. Mike Vrabel, Patriots: Was 3-5 as Tennessee’s head coach in the playoffs. Pretty good considering it was the Titans. The Patriots have gone from 4-13 to 11-3 on his watch.

9. Matt LaFleur, Packers: Is 3-5 with Packers, including three losses to Shanahan and the 49ers — one in the NFC Championship Game following the 2019 season.

10. Jim Harbaugh, Chargers: A 5-3 record in the postseason (5-2 with the 49ers), but pretty much a no-show in last year’s 32-12 wild card to Houston.

11. Sean McDermott, Bills: Is 7-7 in the playoffs, but has the best quarterback in Josh Allen and their nemesis Kansas City is out of the picture.

12. Liam Coen, Jaguars: Would be worth it to see Jacksonville back at Levi’s if only to see Coen and 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh square off in a cage match.

13. Mike Tomlin, Steelers: Is 8-11 in the postseason including a Super Bowl win after the 2008 season but has made eight straight first-game exits.

14. Dave Canales, Panthers: Went from 5-12 in first season to 8-7 in 2025, but has the most suspect team in the tournament.

NFC outlook

Matchups based on current standings:

Bye: No. 1 Seattle (12-3)

Seahawks’ final two: at Carolina (8-7), at 49ers (11-4)

Two road assignments against teams with winning records in hopes of securing the top seed.

No. 7 Green Bay (9-5-1) at No. 2 Chicago (11-4)

Packers’ final two: vs. Baltimore (7-8), at Minnesota (7-8)

Took a gut-punch loss against Bears on Caleb Williams’ overtime heave. With each team winning once, would love a rubber match against Chicago.

Bears’ final two: vs. 49ers (11-4), vs. Detroit (8-7)

Chicago is intent on proving it’s legit and still has a shot at being top seed. City would be crazy if that happened.

No. 6 L.A. Rams (11-4) at No. 3 Philadelphia (10-5)

Rams’ final two: at Atlanta (5-10), vs. Arizona (3-12)

Destined for 13-4 but loss to Seattle may have torpedoed NFC West title and top seed.

Eagles’ final two: at Buffalo (11-4), vs. Washington (3-12)

If Philly wants an air of legitimacy on defending its title, beating the Bills would go a long way.

No. 5 49ers (11-4) at No. 4 Carolina (8-7)

49ers’ final two: vs. Chicago (11-4), vs. Seattle (12-3)

Anything worth achieving is worth achieving the hard way.

Panthers’ final two: vs. Seattle (12-3), at Tampa Bay (7-8)

Impressive win over Bucs, but have to do it again and ending with two losses seems likely.

Still alive (No. 9 seed 

No. 8 Detroit (8-7): Loss to Pittsburgh puts one of the preseason NFC favorites on life support.

Lions’ final two: at Minnesota (7-8), at Chicago (11-4)

Finishing 10-7 and still not making the playoffs is a possibility.

No. 10 Tampa Bay (7-8): Bucs have hit the skids. Were 5-1 after beating the 49ers and 6-2 before losing six of seven with the one win a three-pointer against Arizona.

Bucs’ last two: at Miami (6-9), vs. Carolina (8-7)

AFC outlook

Bye: No. 1 Denver (12-3)

Broncos’ final two: at Kansas City (6-9), vs. L.A. Chargers (11-4)

Loss Should beat Mahomes-less Chiefs, but finale could knock Broncos out of top seed

No. 7 Houston (10-5) at No. 2 New England (12-3)

Texans’ final two: at L.A. Chargers (10-4), at Indianapolis (8-7)

Haven’t clinched division but it seems inevitable. The team no one wants to face in the first round. Including Patriots.

Patriots’ final two: at N.Y. Jets (3-12) vs. Miami (6-9)

If the Broncos stumble, the teams’ remaining games have New England as the probable No. 1 seed.

No. 6 Buffalo (11-4) at No. 3 Jacksonville (11-4)

Bills’ final two: vs. Philadelphia (10-5), vs. N.Y. Jets (3-12)

Close loss to the Browns was disconcerting, but Buffalo can make a statement against Philadelphia and then coast against the Jets.

Jaguars’ final two: at Indianapolis (8-7), vs. Tennessee (3-12)

Jacksonville is on a roll now after taking down top-seeded Denver. “Watching Jacobi Meyers ball out for Jax has to make you feel some kind of way if you’re a Raiders fan,” said Charles Woodson on X.

No. 5 L.A. Chargers (11-4) at No. 4 Pittsburgh (9-6)

Chargers’ final two: vs.Houston (10-5), at Denver (12-3)

Their last two opponents are fighting for seeding and few if any teams want to face the Texans’ defense.

Steelers’ final two: at Cleveland (3-12) vs. Baltimore (7-8)

Hope it was worth it for D.K. Metcalf to confront and take a swing at a blue-haired Lions trash-talker in the stands.

Still alive

8. Indianapolis (8-7): Looks like the Colts can’t keep up with 44-year-old Philip Rivers instead of the other way around.

Colts’ final two: vs. Jacksonville (11-4), at Houston (10-5)

9. Baltimore (7-8): Ravens have no explanation for keeping Derrick Henry off the field in crunch time in loss to Patriots.

Ravens’ final two: at Green Bay (9-5-1), at Pittsburgh (9-6)

If John Harbaugh and Co. win these last two, maybe it’s worth keeping the head coach around for a 19th season.