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) /

22 of 22

Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce

Sep 10, 2020; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) and tight end Travis Kelce (87) celebrate after a touchdown during the first half against the Houston Texans at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports /

Super Bowl LVI

38. 124. 35. 49. Final

Picking this game was essential to the process and yet felt impossible.

On one hand, the Packers are a tough matchup for the Chiefs. Kansas City has long struggled with covering tight ends and running backs. Green Bay can provide both issues. The Packers also have a tremendous offensive line, even with the loss of All-Pro center Corey Linsley.

So why pick Kansas City? The Chiefs have a dynamic interior rush with Chris Jones and Jarran Reed, and while Frank Clark has been so-so in his two regular seasons with the team, he has seven sacks in two postseasons. Furthermore, Kansas City’s defense has the ultimate chess piece in Tyrann Mathieu, giving coordinator Steve Spagnouolo the ability to throw ample looks at Rodgers.

However, the biggest factor is Mahomes against Green Bay’s secondary. it’s tough to imagine him struggling to find Hill, Kelce and Mecole Hardman when only Jaire Alexander has the ability to take any one of them away. It’s essentially on the edge-rushing duo of Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith to win the game, and while both are terrific, it’s a tough bet to make.

In what would be a classic contest, Kansas City wins its second Super Bowl in three years.

Home/NFL Schedule