"We've created a high standard, and we've kind of let that down so far this year, but, man, the fans came, and they were ready," Lynch said. "And I think we inspired the fans early with our play, but they were into that game, and that was really cool, and we're very appreciative."
Lynch emphasized that the 49ers will need that same energy and support on Thursday night when they host the Los Angeles Rams for a crucial Week 15 NFC West showdown at Levi's Stadium.
"The Rams are playing good ball," Lynch noted. "They tripped us up earlier this year, and we've got a great opportunity to get them back."
With a 6-7 record, the 49ers are treating every game like a playoff battle, knowing that another loss could effectively end their already slim postseason hopes. Lynch acknowledged that the team is not looking too far ahead and staying focused on the immediate task—beating the Rams.
"I think, provided we do that (remain focused), we're going to be all right," Lynch said. "But that starts with the Rams, and that's where our focus is. And we've got to have Levi's rocking Thursday night."
The 49ers have had internal discussions about their current situation, understanding the gravity of each game after digging themselves into an early hole.
"This is playoff football for us because that's really where it's at, in our mind," Lynch remarked. "And I felt like the guys responded as such. I felt like they played [as if it were a playoff game] and that that stadium had that type of feel. And we've got to continue that.
"And I thought we did a really good job of blocking out all the noise and really just focusing on one opponent, and that was the Bears."
While the 49ers dismantled the struggling Bears, the Rams are coming off an impressive win, putting up 44 points against one of the league's top teams, the Buffalo Bills. Lynch is mindful not to underestimate their next opponent, especially after the Bills' dominant victory over the 49ers just one week prior.
Lynch added, "And now, we move on to the Rams, a really good football team. ... They have a lot of challenges they present, but I can't wait for Thursday night."
You can listen to Lynch's entire interview below.
More San Francisco 49ers News
-
49ers Draft: John and Kyle, Know Thyselves
Pundits across the league have identified the 49ers' needs (look to this excellent article by Kraz Greinetz for a nuanced evaluation), and it is clear there are holes in almost every part of the roster, some gaping, some small. Since this draft is one the powers-that-be must... -
49ers Named As Potential Trade Destination for All-Pro DE Trey Hendrickson
As higher-profile contract talks continue between the San Francisco 49ers and quarterback Brock Purdy, the team is still putting in plenty of time looking at ways to upgrade their defensive line, which (like the rest of the 49ers' defensive unit) struggled mightily in... -
Projection of Early Return of 49ers' Brandon Aiyuk Continues to Gain Traction
The big story of the 2024 pre-season in San Francisco was the long, arduous contract negotiation involving 49ers' star wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk. By the beginning of the regular season, his contract was done, but the drama continued. Aiyuk was viewed by some 49er fans... -
Kyle Shanahan Sees Tight End Luke Farrell As Prime 49ers Roster Asset
There are certainly other higher-profile roster moves taking place in San Francisco these days, but one of the lesser talked about changes may have a bigger impact on the 49ers' offense this year than some might expect. Three weeks ago, the 49ers signed free-agent tight end...