On Monday Night Football, Purdy threw a career-high five touchdowns for 295 yards with just one interception, in what was arguably the best performance of his career. He also became the first quarterback in red and gold to throw five touchdowns in a regular-season game since the legendary Joe Montana.

Before discussing how the 49ers match up against the parade of flawed teams they may face along the way, I’m going to explain how, to the surprise of even the most optimistic Niners watchers, the team is surviving the Fred Warner and Nick Bosa injuries on defense — and why that unit has real upside to be better in January.

The 49ers (11-4) and the Chicago Bears (11-4) collide in Sunday’s prime-time showcase rich with playoff ramifications.

The Packers join the NFC East champion Eagles (10-5), the Bears (11-5), Seahawks (12-3), 49ers (11-4) and Rams (11-4). The Panthers (8-7) and Buccaneers (7-8) are battling for the final playoff spot in the NFC.

Indianapolis Colts vs San Francisco 49ers picks, predictions, win probabilities for NFL Week 16 Monday Night Football game on Dec. 22. Who will win?

It’s a must-win game for the 49ers on the road to capturing the NFC West crown and No. 1 seed in the playoffs. They may be without star tight end George Kittle and receiver Ricky Pearsall,

Brock Purdy, Christian McCaffrey and the rest of the Niners will rock nostalgic threads on Sunday Night Football this week.

John Lynch offered a candid assessment of Robert Saleh's future in San Francisco amid persistent head coaching rumors.