Thursday Night Football

Chicago Bears @ San Francisco 49’ers

The first edition of Thursday night football this season sees the 4 – 4 Bears in San Francisco, to play the 3 – 5 49’ers. This is a big game for both teams as they try to keep pace with the leading teams in their division. The Bears are not the defence that we are used to seeing, due to the early season ending injury to LB Brian Urlacher. The defence is now just an average unit, and is also pretty poor against the run. On the offensive side of the ball the Bears have been very disappointing in the run game. Coming in to the season Matt Forte was expected to be one of the top RB’s in the league, but he has struggled so far. QB Jay Cutler has had big numbers, but has also struggled with turnovers, especially on the road. Alex Smith is now the starting QB for the 49ers, he also has had his problems with turning the ball over. When he does keep hold of the ball though, he has done very well. He has done especially well throwing to TE Vernon Davis, who has had a big season (477 receiving yards and 7 TD’s). With this production, along with the improving rookie Michael Crabtree, the 49’ers should have a decent passing attack. Also the run game is quite impressive, with the double headed monster, Gore and Coffee. I believe the run defence of the 49ers will keep the struggling Bears run game quite, therefore forcing Cutler to throw more and tempting fate, with those turnover tendencies. I believe Gore and Coffee will get it done against this weakened Bears defence, and the big play ability of Crabtree and Davis will see the 49’ers through.

Lee’s Prediction: Bears 14 49’ers 24

Tell me your prediction for the game at nflgbview@googlemail.com.