Week 17 places a clear spotlight on an area of the San Francisco 49ers defense that has lacked consistency throughout the campaign: pressure off the edge.
While the Niners have struggled to generate steady disruption from a group they've added talent at over the last few years, this week against the Chicago Bears presents an opportunity for one player to tilt the balance: Bryce Huff, who has emerged as the leader on the perimeter.
For Bears quarterback Caleb Williams, he's at his most dangerous when plays break down. His comfort operating outside of structure and willingness to attack downfield late in the down puts immense stress on coverage units, and that reality makes pocket compression critical.