Predicting every game of the 2020 NFL Playoffs

AFC Divisional Round: New England Patriots (3) at Kansas City Chiefs (2)

Yes, I’m not even going to beat around the bush. The Patriots’ run of Super Bowl appearances is officially over. After playing in the last three Big Games (and four of the last five), New England will be bounced by the Kansas City Chiefs in the Divisional Round.

Let’s take a moment to soak it in. Just enjoy it. Okay, moving on.

There’s just no way Brady is ready to outduel Patrick Mahomes — especially against this Kansas City defense. It’s been one of the best in the business over the last month or so, even proving itself capable of cutting off Belichick and Brady in Week 14. This time around, the Chiefs will have home-field advantage.

I’d like to say this one will depend on the Kansas City offense. I mean, it would make sense, right? Mahomes needs to pull the ball in the hands of playmakers like Tyreek Hill and Travis Kelce, and everything else will sort itself out. It might seem that way, but I believe it’ll actually come down to the play of the defense.

If the Chiefs D continues to play with the same effectiveness we’ve seen in recent weeks, the win will go to the home team. It’s got the talent to send Brady and his bunch packing, so let’s hope they make the most of it and book itself a trip to the AFC Championship Game.

Prediction: Chiefs win 27-23