49ers playoff scenarios: Which possible outcome is best?

49ers and the No. 3 seed

Road to the No. 3 seed:

• The San Francisco 49ers lose to the Arizona Cardinals and the Minnesota Vikings defeat the Chicago Bears

Path in the playoffs:

The No. 3 seed would be disappointing for the 49ers given they finally managed to climb to No. 2, but it’s still a scenario that needs to be discussed.

What we do know is the No. 3 seed has it’s opponent already lined up. The New York Giants await whoever finishes here, as they’re locked into the No. 6 seed regardless of any possible results that may happen for Week 18.

The Giants have been similar to the Detroit Lions in that they’ve been a big improver in the NFC this season. Brian Daboll has been coaching them well, with quarterback Daniel Jones having the best season of his career not too long after many wrote him off as a draft bust for the Giants.

After that it’s wide open where and who the 49ers play. They could conceivably play in San Francisco or on the road should the No. 2 seed win their game, which obviously would be a big changeup.

A lot would hinge on if the Vikings managed to win their playoff game. If they do falter in the playoffs, the 49ers essentially take on the role as listed in the No. 2 seed thereafter.