This 2024 Monday night game could determine the fate of the 49ers' season

The San Francisco 49ers' schedule has been released.

While there are many interesting matchups, one stands out in Week 17. The Niners are set to have a rematch with the Detroit Lions at home which could decide their 2024 season.

Week 17 vs. Lions could determine 49ers' fate in 2024

The Niners had an epic comeback against the Lions in last year's NFC Championship game. However, the Lions put San Francisco on notice because they proved that they were more than capable of winning that game if a few things had gone their way.

Or, perhaps if their coach remembered he had a kicker.

While the Niners had the No. 1 seed in the playoffs last season, they still had the same record as the Lions at 12-5. Of course, the 49ers' Week 18 game against the Los Angelese Rams did not affect playoff seeding, which is why they did not play their starters for the full game.

Still, the Lions have to be regarded as a serious NFC contender in 2024. They have a talented team and will have gained a lot from their taste of the postseason last season. Plus, the bitter loss to San Francisco will only make them more motivated to get back to that position again.

It is a long season and lots can happen. But sitting here in May, it would not surprise anyone if the 49ers and Lions have similar records and both have a chance at the No. 1 seed in the NFC going into their Week 17 matchup at Levi's Stadium.

We know how important home field advantage was for the 49ers in last year's postseason. It is not a coincidence that both times the Niners have made it to the Super Bowl under head coach Kyle Shanahan, it was when they were the No. 1 seed in the NFC.

The Week 17 Monday night matchup between the two teams should be a great game, and it could very well decide what the seeding in the NFC will be.

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