Chicago Bears: Previewing Week 16 with Niner Noise

3. Mitch Trubisky and Solomon Thomas will forever be linked by the 2017 draft. Now more than a year removed from the big trade that shook the top of the 2017 draft, what’s your review of Thomas? What can Trubisky and the Bears offense expect from the 49ers defense?

Thomas was a disappointment during his rookie season but has become a contributor in his second season in the league. Still, NFL teams expect more from the third overall pick in the draft. It’s too early to call Thomas a bust, as the 49ers have forced the Stanford product to play a variety of positions on the line, which has likely stunted his development. Hopefully, the team will allow him to stick to his current role as an outside rusher on early downs and an inside rusher on obvious passing downs.

The Bears can expect a stout run defense from San Francisco, and a pass defense that is only effective if their front four are able to pressure the quarterback. Teams that are able to give their QB ample time thrive against the 49ers, but if Chicago’s offensive line is unable to stop defensive tackle DeForest Buckner and the Niners’ front four on obvious passing downs, expect a lot of three-and-outs for the visiting team.

4. Give me an under the radar player on each side of the ball who Bears fans might not know but will have an impact on Sunday’s outcome.

The 49ers have a pair of fairly unknown rookies who are in the process of making a name for themselves in the league and will also have important roles in Sunday’s matchup. Right tackle Mike McGlinchey has been the NFL’s top rookie offensive lineman this season, but he’s much better in the run game than the passing game and should see a lot of Bears EDGE Khalil Mack on Sunday.

On defense, MIKE linebacker Fred Warner was immediately thrust into a leadership role and runs the 49ers’ defense despite the fact that he’s still learning a new position. Warner has shown flashes over his rookie season while making key plays both against the run and in pass defense.

5. What’s your prediction for Sunday? Please include a final score and brief synopsis.

Provided the 49ers continue their recent level of play, I expect Week 16 to be a close affair — but with San Francisco, you never know which team is going to show up on a given Sunday. The 49ers should be able to contain the Bears’ rushing attack, but a lack of edge pressure will likely give Trubisky opportunities to push the ball downfield.

If the Bears can build a lead and force the Niners to air it out, Chicago’s pass rush will be a challenge for San Francisco’s young quarterback. I predict that the 49ers will show heart and keep the game close, but the Bears will prevail in the end, 24-20.