Updated NFC playoff picture pushes Bears onto a dangerous path

Chicago Bears v San Francisco 49ers - NFL 2025 | Thearon W. Henderson/GettyImagesThe Chicago Bears have been mathematically eliminated from the race for the NFC's No. 1 seed, which is a noteworthy development for multiple reasons. First and foremost, that means a first-round bye and home-field advantage on the road to Super Bowl LX are no longer on the table. Yet, somehow, this is only the tip of the iceberg.

Chicago's thrilling albeit disappointing 42-38 loss to the San Francisco 49ers could cause a massive ripple effect. The ramifications of this Sunday Night Football showdown cannot be overstated, specifically with respect to the Bears.

Yes, the Bears have punched their ticket to the…