DJ Moore Steps Up Again as Bears Face Crucial Test vs. 49ers
With the NFC North race tightening and the playoffs looming, the Chicago Bears are leaning on a familiar face to carry the load. DJ Moore-who’s had an up-and-down season-reminded everyone exactly what he’s capable of in last week’s overtime win against the Packers. With both Luther Burden and Rome Odunze sidelined, Moore answered the call, hauling in five catches for 97 yards and a touchdown in a gritty 22-16 victory that kept Chicago in control of its postseason destiny.
Now, as the Bears prepare for a massive Sunday Night Football showdown with the San Francisco 49ers, it looks like Moore might be asked to do it all over again.
Injuries Open the Door-Again-for Moore to Lead
According to reports, neither Burden (ankle) nor Odunze (foot) was spotted at Tuesday’s practice during the media viewing period. That’s not exactly shocking-both have been battling injuries-but it does raise the likelihood that Moore could once again be the go-to target in a game with serious playoff seeding implications.
Even if Burden and Odunze suit up, their limited practice time suggests they won’t be at full strength. That’s a tough spot for any team, but it also gives the Bears a clear path: keep feeding Moore. He’s the most experienced receiver on the roster, and last week’s performance showed he’s more than capable of handling the spotlight when it matters most.
Moore’s Timing Couldn’t Be Better
Moore’s resurgence couldn’t come at a better time. Earlier in the year, his production dipped-partly due to inconsistent quarterback play, partly due to the emergence of other weapons. But with the Bears banged up and in need of a reliable target, Moore has reasserted himself as the alpha in this offense.
Last week’s win over Green Bay proved that even without Burden and Odunze, the Bears’ offense still has teeth. Moore’s ability to create separation, make contested catches, and turn short gains into explosive plays gives this unit a different dimension. And with the 49ers looming, the Bears will need every bit of that explosiveness.
A Glimpse of What’s Possible Against the 49ers
If you’re wondering how the Bears might fare against San Francisco’s defense, consider this: just a few nights ago, 44-year-old Phillip Rivers-yes, that Phillip Rivers-came off the couch and threw for 277 yards and two touchdowns against this very 49ers team. That performance, while unexpected, showed that this Niners defense isn’t invincible. It also raises an intriguing question: what might Caleb Williams be able to do, even with a limited supporting cast?
It’s not just about one game, though. This is about building momentum, building trust, and building confidence-especially for Moore, who’s finding his rhythm at the perfect time. If the Bears can get Moore rolling while giving Burden and Odunze time to heal, they’ll be in a much stronger position heading into January.
The Bigger Picture for Chicago
This week’s injury report isn’t ideal, but it’s also not a reason to panic. In fact, it might be a blessing in disguise. Letting Burden and Odunze rest could pay off down the line, and in the meantime, Moore has a chance to continue proving he can be the focal point of this offense.
For a fan base that’s been waiting to see this group click, Sunday night offers another opportunity-not just to win, but to show that this team is built to handle adversity. DJ Moore is leading that charge, and if last week was any indication, he’s more than ready for the moment.
The Bears are still in control. And with Moore stepping up, they’re not just surviving-they’re starting to look like a team that could make some serious noise.