2021 NFL schedule release: Picks and predictions for every game

GLENDALE, ARIZONA - AUGUST 20: Quarterback Patrick Mahomes #15 of the Kansas City Chiefs runs up field before the start of the NFL preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on August 20, 2021 in Glendale, Arizona. The Chiefs defeated the Cardinals 17-10. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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GREEN BAY, WISCONSIN – JANUARY 16: Aaron Rodgers #12 of the Green Bay Packers leaves the field following the NFC Divisional Playoff game against the Los Angeles Rams at Lambeau Field on January 16, 2021 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Packers defeated the Rams 32-18. (Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images) /

AFC Championship Game

31. 124. Final. 24. 16

For the fourth straight year, the AFC Championship Game is at Arrowhead Stadium. And, in a rematch of the 2020 affair, Kansas City takes on Buffalo. The Chiefs will be challenged this time around unlike the first meeting, but ultimately, the Bills lack of a pass rush dooms them. If Mahomes has time to find Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce, he wins.

If Buffalo is going to pull the upset, it would be with blitzing and holding up on the back end with Tre’Davious White and Levi Wallace on the corners. It’s a stretch considering Buffalo also must keep Mahomes in the pocket, take away Kelce underneath and stop the run. Just too much.

NFC Championship Game

51. 24. 49. Final. 23

The two teams meet for the second straight postseason. The Packers are the NFC’s best team, but the Rams might be the most difficult matchup due to Donald inside, Jalen Ramsey at corner and the offensive scheme. Los Angeles will give Green Bay all it can handle, but ultimately Rodgers finally wins another NFC title.

For the Rams, it’s about pressuring Rodgers constantly while Stafford plays a flawless game. For a quarterback who has never won a division or playoff game, it’s the proverbial bridge too far.

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