Abstract: A machine for cutting and chopping corn and similar stalk-like harvested crops independently of rows includes drawing-in and cutting drums which are overlapped on the upper side in the region of their rotational sector by cover plates which interact each with a divider point for the harvested crops to be cut. The divider point extends in the driving direction. The outer edge of the cover plates in the region adjoining the respective divider point has an arching counter to the driving direction. The arching exposes the driving teeth of the associated drawing-in and cutting drum and forms an opening for the entry of the harvested crop between the driving teeth. This opening can optionally be closed by means of a blocking element depending on the nature of the crops being harvested.