Five 49ers to watch in must-win NFC game vs. Bears in Week 14

The 49ers still are mathematically in the NFC postseason picture. But a lot would have to go right for Kyle Shanahan's team to qualify for the playoffs for a fourth consecutive season. First, they have to start winning games. And Sunday's matchup against the Chicago Bears is anything but a sure thing, even as the opposition enters Levi's Stadium on a six-game losing streak. The 49ers are coming off back-to-back losses to Green Bay and Buffalo by a combined 73-20. The Bears, meanwhile, have suffered narrow misses. They have lost consecutive games to Green Bay, Minnesota and Detroit - postseason-bound teams from the NFC North - by a combined seven points. With an eye to the future, here are five players who have to step up for the 49ers to get back on the winning track: S Ji'Ayir Brown Second-year safety Ji'Ayir Brown has started all 12 games this season. He has experienced his ups and downs along the way. Brown started just five regular-season games as a rookie. He intercepted two passes and added another in the Super Bowl, when he picked off Kansas City's Patrick Mahomes. This season, the big plays have been lacking for Brown. He has just one interception and no forced fumbles or...