Chicago Bears vs San Francisco 49ers: Week 13 Keys to the Game

Nov 27, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Marquess Wilson (10) attempts to leap over Tennessee Titans cornerback LeShaun Sims (36) during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 27, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Marquess Wilson (10) attempts to leap over Tennessee Titans cornerback LeShaun Sims (36) during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 13, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Cameron Meredith (81) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won 36-10. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 13, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Cameron Meredith (81) against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. The Buccaneers won 36-10. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports /

3) Cameron Meredith’s return as a viable weapon

When Brian Hoyer took over at quarterback, Cameron Meredith racked up an absurd amount of receiving yards. However, the converted quarterback has been absent for the past few weeks. Meredith logged two 100 yard games in Hoyer’s first three starts, but he hasn’t come close to that figure ever since. In fact, Meredith has only reached 50 receiving yards once in the last 5 weeks.

Without Alshon Jeffery, the Bears are desperate for a true number one option. Since Jeffery’s suspension, Marquess Wilson has been the only receiver to execute when opportunities have come their way. However, Meredith has the qualities to be a true number one option. With an athletic skill set and a 6’3 frame, Meredith is built to be a playmaker in the NFL. With Jeffery’s contract set to expire and Kevin White’s future being a complete mystery, the door couldn’t be more wide open for Meredith. The Chicago Bears will have some significant evaluation to do this offseason, and a good performance by Meredith down the stretch could keep him in Chicago’s good graces. The 49ers’ weak secondary offers the Illinois State product a great opportunity to get back on track.

In the last 4 games, Meredith has averaged only 35 yards a game. For the Bears to win, Meredith needs to bounce back with over 75 yards and a score.