Why the 49ers most important game of the season is this Sunday against the Buccaneers

The season starts on Sunday for the 49ers . Sitting at 4-4, the 49ers currently behind the Bears and ahead of the Rams and Bucs for the ninth seed in the NFC. Of course, every game is critical, but out of the bye week against an NFC opponent, it might prove to be the most important game remaining on the schedule for the 49ers.

NFL.com's playoff predictions have the 49ers at a 57 percent chance of making the playoffs, and a win against Tampa Bay raises those chances to 63 percent. However, a loss drops the probability to 39 percent. Following a loss to the Kansas City Chiefs , Tampa Bay has their backs against the wall and nearly handed the reigning Super Bowl champion a loss in overtime. The Bucs' chances are 37 percent, and a loss to San Francisco drops their chances to 28 percent. The 49ers should fully expect the Bucs best shot on Sunday.

The NFC West is up for grabs with Arizona in first place facing the Jets, and the Rams in second place with a matchup with Miami. Arizona's chances are 42 percent, and Los Angeles is 22 percent. The 49ers have to rack up wins and get some help from the AFC East on Sunday.

Pro Football Focus estimates the 49ers playoff chances at 66 percent, but a loss on Sunday drops their chances by 30 percent. The Bucs are at 54 percent and a 49ers win puts their chances under 25 percent to make the playoffs.

Christian McCaffrey and Jauan Jennings are back following the bye week with Tampa Bay limping into the game without Mike Evans and Chris Godwin. Rookie wide receiver Jalen McMillan missed last week's game, which means Sterling Shepard may be the team's top wide receiver on Sunday. There is no excuse for not executing for the 49ers defense.

San Francisco needs to rack up wins, but Sunday is a big measuring stick to evaluating where the 49ers are headed down the stretch. If the 49ers return to the efficient, explosive offense that converts touchdowns in the red zone, then confidence will be high in a late season charge. Rounding into shape and being as healthy as possible is the name of the game, but the 49ers have to show that on Sunday. There is no grace period. The change has to be immediate.

Every game will be critical, but this game is the most important remaining on the schedule because it will indicate where the 49ers are headed. The season starts on Sunday.