NFL 2021-22 Divisional Round Picks
Cincinnati (+4) at Tennessee
If Derrick Henry is back to anything close to 100 percent, there’s a solid chance the well rested Titans just plain old dismantle the Bengals. And even with less than a completely healthy and ready Henry, I suspect the the home team (which has to be one of the most overlooked and underestimated one seeds ever) is at least a touchdown better than the visitors. So let’s just say that: Tennessee by seven.
San Francisco (+5.5) at Green Bay
The 49ers absolutely can win this game. I think they actually match up pretty well with the Packers. And if they can move the ball effectively on the ground (where the Green Bay defense is questionable), and keep the Packers from establishing the run (also a distinct possibility), San Francisco can make the game about Aaron Rodgers. And Rodgers has a habit of melting down in postseason games when he believes he has to win all by himself. In the end, I suspect injuries, consecutive road games, and traveling on short rest conspire to upend San Fran. But I like them to make it a game through at least three quarters. And I suspect five and a half is excessive. Green Bay by a field goal.
LA Rams (+3) at Tampa Bay
One could spend all day talking about the matchups here. But in the end, you still end up with the question of whether there’s anything to be gained picking against Tom Brady in the postseason. And there really isn’t. Buccaneers win it straight up; it’s a push with the points.
Buffalo (+1.5) at Kansas City
The Bills are the better team here. By enough to overcome home field? Maybe. I think it’s close game. And a close game can always go either way. But I have a hard time picking against a home team coming off a bye. So I guess I’ll look for Kansas City’s elimination from the tournament to wait until next week in Nashville. KC by one.
