Yes, the 49ers will closely be watching Monday night’s Vikings-Seahawks game, for obvious reasons. But the Packers will closely be watching the game as well, for slightly less obvious reasons.
If the Vikings lose to Seattle on Monday night, the Packers will have a clear and easy path to the NFC North title.
It would give Green Bay a one-game lead, with four to play. And even if the Vikings beat Green Bay three weeks from tonight in Minnesota, the Packers would win the division by beating Washington this week, the Bears next week, and the Lions in Week 17 — even if the Vikings otherwise run the table.