Packers: Three teams to root for in key Week 16 matchups

1. Los Angeles Rams (at 49ers)

For the Packers to earn the top seed, this is the most likely path. It’s the reverse of the scenario we just looked at. Instead of the Seahawks losing in Week 16 but then defeating the 49ers, this is the opposite. The 49ers lose to the Los Angeles Rams but then defeat the Seahawks next week. Again, the Packers would take the number one seed by winning out.

While this scenario might also seem unlikely, it’s less improbable than the others previously mentioned. The Rams haven’t quite been eliminated from playoff contention just yet. They upset the Seahawks a couple of weeks ago. The 49ers are also coming off a surprising home loss to the Atlanta Falcons. This is a divisional game, and the Rams have the talent to win this game if they’re at their best.

Equally, the 49ers-Seahawks game feels like a 50-50. If San Francisco loses this week but bounces back at Seattle, the opportunity will be there for Green Bay to take the number one seed.

But again, the Packers will need to take care of themselves and win out. And when the next game on the schedule is against the Vikings at U.S. Bank Stadium, it’s not going to be easy.