San Francisco 49ers Edge Chicago Bears 42-38 in Epic
In one of the most thrilling and highest-scoring games of the 2025 NFL season, the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Chicago Bears 42-38 on December 28, 2025 (extending into early December 29), at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. This Week 17 “Sunday Night Football” classic featured 80 combined points, multiple lead changes, and historic ties at 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 — a first in NFL regular-season history.
The victory improved the 49ers to 12-4, keeping their NFC West title hopes and potential No. 1 seed alive heading into a decisive Week 18 clash with the Seattle Seahawks. The Bears fell to 11-5 but retained their NFC North crown and a strong No. 2 seed in the conference.
Game Recap: Back-and-Forth Offensive Explosion
The Bears struck first with a stunning pick-six by linebacker T.J. Edwards off Brock Purdy just 15 seconds into the game, taking a 7-0 lead. But Purdy quickly shook off the early mistake, leading the 49ers on a scoring drive capped by a touchdown to backup tight end Jake Tonges (stepping up for the inactive George Kittle due to an ankle injury).
From there, the offenses traded blows relentlessly:
- Caleb Williams connected on deep strikes, including a 35-yard touchdown to rookie sensation Luther Burden III (who finished with 138 receiving yards) and a 36-yard score to tight end Colston Loveland on a free play.
- Purdy answered with mobility and precision, rushing for two touchdowns (including a diving 10-yarder) and finding Christian McCaffrey for a 5-yard score. McCaffrey amassed 181 scrimmage yards and a touchdown despite the Bears’ defense focusing on him.
- The second half saw more fireworks: D’Andre Swift scored twice on the ground for Chicago, including a 22-yard scamper to tie it at 28-28 and another to briefly lead late.
- Purdy’s highlight-reel play came on a scramble where he evaded defenders before tossing a 6-yard touchdown to fullback Kyle Juszczyk.
The game reached a fever pitch in the fourth quarter. The Bears drove inside the 5-yard line and took a 38-35 lead on a Cairo Santos 29-yard field goal with 5:22 remaining. But Purdy orchestrated one final drive, capping it with a 38-yard catch-and-run touchdown to Jauan Jennings (who broke free for the go-ahead score with 2:15 left).
Chicago’s last-gasp drive reached the 2-yard line, but Williams’ final pass into the end zone fell incomplete as time expired, sealing the dramatic 49ers win.
Key Player Stats and Performances
- Brock Purdy (SF): 24/33 for 303 yards, 3 passing TDs, 1 INT; 2 rushing TDs (5 total TDs — his second straight five-TD game, joining elite NFL history).
- Christian McCaffrey (SF): 23 carries for 140+ rushing yards, plus receiving contributions for 181 scrimmage yards and 1 TD.
- Caleb Williams (CHI): 25/42 for 330 yards, 2 passing TDs; showcased poise and big-play ability in a valiant effort.
- Luther Burden III (CHI): 8 receptions for 138 yards and 1 TD — a breakout performance for the rookie.
- Injuries: 49ers LT Trent Williams exited early with a hamstring issue; several players on both sides dealt with minor knocks.
This shootout highlighted the explosive offenses led by young guns Williams (in his sophomore surge) and the undervalued Purdy, who continues to thrive under Kyle Shanahan.
Playoff Implications
With the win, the 49ers control their destiny for the NFC’s top seed and home-field advantage through the playoffs — a Week 18 victory over Seattle would clinch it. The Bears, already NFC North champs, remain locked into a high seed and will host Detroit in the finale.
Fans and analysts hailed the game as an instant classic and one of the most entertaining of 2025, proving the NFC’s depth and star power.
