The San Francisco 49ers and Chicago Bears have combined for six touchdowns in the opening 18 minutes of the game. This could be a playoff preview, and fans are loving what they are seeing, unless you are a nervous fan of these teams.
The 49ers’ offense is lighting up the Chicago defense, and Christian McCaffrey is a big reason for that. However, despite the offensive success, their number one receiver, Jauan Jennings, hasn’t been heavily involved.
Jauan Jennings’ Slow Start
Jennings has only one catch for four yards so far on Sunday Night Football. So far, the 49ers haven’t needed to get him involved with the way their offense is moving the ball, but it would definitely help. He is a dynamic threat that can pose problems to this Chicago defense.
It’s been the Jake Tonges and McCaffrey show so far. The tight end has five catches for 48 yards and a touchdown. He has been everything the 49ers have needed in the absence of their star TE George Kittle.
The 49ers offense has 28 points in the first half and is ripping this Bears defense to shreds. They have over 300 yards of total offense and would be cruising if not for a pick-six on the first play from scrimmage.
The 49ers are clicking, and once Kittle returns from injury, this team will become even scarier. They are playing for their divisional lives. They don’t have to worry about the playoffs, but with the opportunity to win the NFC West and steal the No. 1 seed in the NFC, the 49ers need this one.
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Jennings is the premier threat outside for San Francisco. Yet it hasn’t been his best season. He ranks 69th in PFSN’s WR Impact metric with an impact score of 72.2. The Chicago secondary has been very good throughout 2025 and has produced a plethora of interceptions. However, Jennings can exploit them and will have to get going for the 49ers if Chicago can adjust to mitigate McCaffrey’s impact.
The playoffs could run through San Francisco if the 49ers win their final two games. They wouldn’t even have to travel if they made the Super Bowl, as it is already in San Francisco.
If the 49ers can give themselves a bye, they would need only one win to make the NFC Championship, where their defensive star Fred Warner is targeting a potential return. It won’t be easy to win out, but if they hold on today, it makes their road simple.
Editor’s Note: This is a breaking news story and will be updated throughout the day as more information becomes available.
