[DRM08]

Originally Posted by RaidersOftheCellar

From ESPN:

Gut reaction predictions

Aaron Schatz, NFL analyst: Chiefs. Their defense is playing very well, while the 49ers' defense has declined in recent weeks. Both running backs should have nice games, but only the Chiefs have Mahomes.

Dan Graziano, NFL national reporter: Chiefs. Every time I don't pick them, they seem to make me feel stupid. They keep finding ways to win.

Dan Orlovsky, NFL analyst: Chiefs. Mahomes always gives them an edge, and the defense is excellent.

Field Yates, NFL analyst: Chiefs. The Lions did a solid job of protecting Jared Goff in the NFC Championship Game, which I expect the Chiefs to be able to replicate. Even if they are unable to, Mahomes is undeterred by pressure and will lead the Chiefs to their third Super Bowl win in five years.

Jordan Reid, NFL draft analyst: Chiefs. San Francisco is looking to avenge its loss to the Chiefs from Super Bowl LIV, but I think Kansas City will once again be too much for the 49ers as they go on to win back-to-back titles.

Lindsey Thiry, NFL national reporter: Chiefs. You simply can't pick against Mahomes.

Marcus Spears, NFL analyst: Chiefs. Again, Mahomes is their QB ...

Matt Miller, NFL draft analyst: Chiefs. I like some of the situational matchups for San Francisco, but the playoffs are about the team with the best quarterback and head coach duo -- and that's Kansas City.

Seth Walder, analytics writer: 49ers. San Francisco's playmakers will be too overwhelming for Kansas City. There's a reason the Niners were the best offense all year long -- and they will be again on Super Bowl Sunday.

Seth Wickersham, NFL writer: 49ers. Shanahan's scars are finally healed.

Stephania Bell, NFL injury analyst: 49ers. Shanahan will use the lessons learned from giving up a lead (as well as the confidence gained Sunday night that they can come back from behind) to pull out a win.

Well damn. I prefer when 80% of the pundits are giving the Chiefs no chance to win. They are great in the underdog role. Hopefully 2 weeks of bloviating will have these pundit folks leaning harder for the 49ers and help give some extra fuel to the fire on the Chiefs side.