2021 NFL picks, score predictions for the Divisional Round

Cleveland Browns (6) at Kansas City Chiefs (1)

Sunday, January 17, 3:05PM ET

I’m not going to lie — the Cleveland Browns were very impressive during the Wild Card Round. I was skeptical of my prediction they’d win after the havoc COVID wreaked, but they overcome the adversity and stuck it to the Pittsburgh Steelers to get their first playoff win since 1994.

Unfortunately for the Browns, their next matchup isn’t going to be nearly as easy. In fact, it’s going to be an utter headache for a team that, while plenty talented, has too many holes to go the distance this season. The Kansas City Chiefs are ready to show everyone why they’re the AFC’s top seed and favored by many to repeat as Super Bowl champs.

Patrick Mahomes comes out slinging, avoiding the mistakes Ben Roethlisberger made while taking advantages of the weaknesses in Cleveland’s secondary. While the Browns played their entire Wild Card game with a lead, they’ll soon learn how frustrating it is to be on the receiving end of the shellacking.

Baker Mayfield’s desperation leads him to a turnover or three, and the Chiefs capitalize. Although the Browns manage a late touchdown to make the score appear somewhat respectable, Kansas City never even breaks a sweat on their way to the next round.

Prediction: Chiefs win 44-27