49ers Outlast Bears to Approach NFC Top Seed in High-Scoring Week 17 Clash
Santa Clara, Monday, 29 December 2025.
Led by Brock Purdy’s five total touchdowns, the 49ers defeated Chicago 42-38. San Francisco is now poised to clinch the NFC’s top seed with a victory in the final week.
A Primetime Offensive Showcase
In a game that defied defensive expectations, the San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Bears combined for a staggering 80 points, shattering the projected betting total of 51.5 set by oddsmakers [1][2]. Quarterback Brock Purdy orchestrated the 49ers’ offense with surgical precision, accounting for five total touchdowns—three through the air and two on the ground—while accumulating 303 passing yards [1]. This performance was historically significant; Purdy became the first player in NFL history to record a passing touchdown, a rushing touchdown, and throw a pick-six all within a single first quarter [1]. On the opposing sideline, rookie quarterback Caleb Williams demonstrated why he was the No. 1 overall pick, throwing for 330 yards and two touchdowns, keeping the Bears competitive until the final seconds [1][5].
Crucial Fourth-Quarter Volatility
The game’s momentum shifted dramatically in the final quarter, illustrating the high variance inherent in late-season matchups between playoff-bound teams. The Bears briefly seized control, taking a 38-35 lead with 5:22 remaining following a 29-yard field goal by Cairo Santos [1][5]. However, the 49ers responded with a decisive drive, culminating in Purdy’s 38-yard touchdown pass to Jauan Jennings with just 2:15 left on the clock [1]. Despite a valiant effort, Chicago’s final possession ended when a pass from Williams fell short in the end zone as time expired, sealing the victory for San Francisco [1]. Christian McCaffrey was instrumental in the 49ers’ offensive output, tallying 181 total yards from scrimmage, further solidifying his value ahead of the postseason [1].
Playoff Implications and Market Analysis
This victory fundamentally alters the NFC playoff picture and the associated futures markets. The 49ers, now holding a 12-4 record, control their destiny; a win against the Seattle Seahawks in their final regular-season game will guarantee them the NFC’s No. 1 seed and the coveted first-round bye [1][5]. Conversely, the loss locks the NFC North champion Bears (11-5) into either the No. 2 or No. 3 seed, effectively eliminating them from contention for the conference’s top spot [4][5]. From a financial perspective, the 49ers’ performance validates the organization’s substantial investment in their quarterback; Purdy recently signed a five-year, $265 million extension commencing in the 2026 season, carrying an average annual value of $53 million [5]. As the regular season concludes, attention now shifts to Week 18, where San Francisco must secure a win to capitalize on their current momentum [6].