By: Joe Lami

The 49ers are coming off yet another loss. This time at the hands of the division leading Arizona. They hope that the 19-13 loss can be something to be built on, as many positives can be taken. Quarterback, Blaine Gabbert had a career day in which he passed for 318 yards and one touchdown. The defense also held the Arizona running offense to only 70 yards.

This week the Niners are matched up against the Chicago Bears. The 5-6 Bears are hoping that the home contest against San Francisco can bring them back to .500 on the season. This would be huge for them as they have been able to string off wins in three of their last four to turn their season around. They’ve also struggled at home with a record of just 1-4.  Jay Cutler is having himself a career year, passing for over 2500 yards and 14 touchdowns while only throwing six interceptions.

The 49ers are winless on the road (0-5) and have been outscored by an outstanding 176-71 margin.

San Francisco will see a familiar face in defensive coordinator, Vic Fangio, who was yet another departure from the terrible offseason in Santa Clara. Fangio is ready to shut down his former team but with Gabbert under center, he might not recognize the new 49ers offense. His defense is staying strong against the pass, allowing only 214 yards per game but on the run they’re 29th in the league.

Running back, Carlos Hyde has already been ruled out for the contest, not making the flight to Chicago. This means for the fourth straight game Shaun Draughn will be in the backfield for the Niners. Draughn has 146 yards on 43 carries so far this season in San Francisco and will be huge if the Niners want to have any chance walking out of Solider Field with a victory.

Prediction:

Chicago 21 San Francisco 17