Sunday Night Football on Dec. 28 will bring a high-stakes showdown between the San Francisco 49ers and the Chicago Bears, a game that could shape the 2025 playoff picture.
The matchup is billed as a potential playoff preview, with both teams holding identical 11-4 records and fighting for the top seed in the NFC.
If the 49ers win their last two home games against the Bears and the Seattle Seahawks, they will secure the league’s No. 1 seed and a first-round bye.
The 49ers have battled injuries throughout the season, yet their resilience has kept them at the forefront of the NFC West and the entire conference.
The Bears, led by quarterback Caleb Williams, are on the cusp of their first NFC North title since 2018, thanks to a dramatic comeback over the Green Bay Packers in Week 16.
Head coach Ben Johnson, in his first year at the helm, has steered the Bears toward a stronger postseason position after already clinching a playoff berth.
The game will be played at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, giving both teams a home-field advantage in a neutral venue for the NFL’s marquee matchup.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7:20 p.m. Central Time, placing the game in prime evening viewership for the national audience.
NBC and Peacock will broadcast the contest, featuring a consistent Sunday Night Football crew throughout the 2025 season.
Mike Tirico will handle play-by-play duties, with Cris Collinsworth as analyst and Melissa Stark on the sidelines.
Pregame coverage will begin at 6 p.m. Central Time with “Football Night in America,” a segment that sets the tone for the game.
The pre-game panel will include Maria Taylor, Jason Garrett, Chris Simms, Tony Dungy, Rodney Harrison, Mike Florio, Devin McCourty, Matthew Berry, and Jac Collinsworth.
Fans can stream the game live on Peacock or via NBC.com, ensuring accessibility across multiple platforms.
Mobile viewers will have the option to follow the action through the Peacock mobile app on Apple and Android devices, as well as the NBC mobile app.
Adding to the entertainment, a multi-platinum, GRAMMY Award-winning singer will perform the musical show opening for NBC’s Sunday Night Football, marking the 13th consecutive NFL season of such performances.
Quarterback Brock Purdy, the former last pick in the draft, has emerged as a star for the 49ers and is a central figure in the team’s offensive strategy.
The 49ers’ home advantage at Levi’s Stadium is amplified by the stadium’s reputation as a tough venue for opposing teams.
Similarly, the Bears will enjoy the same stadium advantage, which has historically provided a boost for home teams during Sunday Night Football broadcasts.
Securing the No. 1 seed would grant the 49ers a first-round bye, a significant advantage in the playoff structure.
The Bears have already locked in a playoff spot, allowing them to focus on improving their seed and positioning for the postseason.
Both teams have shown the ability to overcome adversity, with the 49ers managing injuries and the Bears navigating a coaching transition.
Key player matchups will feature the Bears’ offensive line against the 49ers’ defensive front, a battle that could dictate the game’s momentum.
Fans are expected to fill Levi’s Stadium, with many anticipating a thrilling contest between two division rivals.
The broadcast schedule for the day includes the game’s kickoff at 7:20 p.m. CT, preceded by the pre-game show and followed by post-game analysis.
Social media platforms will host real-time commentary, fan reactions, and official game updates throughout the broadcast.
Pre-game analysis will highlight the teams’ recent performances, injury reports, and strategic adjustments heading into the matchup.
Key Takeaways
- The 49ers and Bears both hold 11-4 records, making the game a potential playoff preview.
- A 49ers win at home could secure the NFC’s No. 1 seed and a first-round bye.
- The game will air on NBC and Peacock with a full pre-game and post-game package.
The Sunday Night Football showdown between the 49ers and Bears promises excitement, high stakes, and a showcase of top NFL talent, all set against the backdrop of Levi’s Stadium and a national audience.
