Each matchup counts from here on in, with a number of massive outcomes in week 14 that could decide postseason positions come the end of the season.
A 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers dealt a big blow to the Baltimore Ravens' play-off hopes, whereas the Buffalo Bills quarterback all-but finished the Cincinnati Bengals' hopes. At the same time, the Houston Texans defense presented a significant problem and could have ended the Kansas City Chiefs campaign earlier than ever in the Patrick Mahomes tenure.
Divisional Analysis: Division Showdowns Live Up To the Expectations
A trio of critical rivalry games delivered.
Seasoned signal-caller Rodgers, competing with a fractured wrist, led his team to a hard-fought close win in on the road. He recorded his initial rushing score in nearly three seasons, however it was his deep throws to his top wideout that made the difference.
The Ravens' quarterback was out of kilter as his team missed key chances—though they were left fuming by a late touchdown being chalked off. These teams are scheduled to face off once more on the last weekend of the regular season.
Elsewhere, the oldest feud in the league saw a thrilling encounter. Despite touchdown bombs, an worn-out defense had to thwart another fourth-quarter comeback from the opposing young QB in the freezing weather.
The result handed one team a narrow advantage in their NFC North, whereas the defeated team dropped from the NFC's top spot down to outside the playoff picture.
Analysis: What Has Gone Awry for the Chiefs?
Projections assign the Kansas City only a fifteen percent probability of reaching the postseason. In all likelihood, this could be the initial missed playoffs for franchise QB Patrick Mahomes—and the first for the franchise in a decade.
In his seven complete seasons as a starter, he has advanced to seven AFC Championship games and 5 championship games. This means the team has played nearly every possible contest during his time.
Therefore, the causes for the current failure are clear and were highlighted during Sunday's defeat. Injuries decimated an already dodgy O-line, with several starters missing.
Even then, Mahomes gave his team a chance, however missed field goals and crucial drops—such as on a key fourth down attempt—sealed their fate.
Spotlight: Is the Lombardi Trophy Be Heading for the West?
A pair of top contenders from the western divisions are building compelling cases for championship contention.
One team, atop their the AFC, won the most recent title held at this year's venue. They are built on a stifling defence that leads the NFL in sacks and victories through grinding, time-consuming possessions.
The second team, leading the other conference, showcased an dynamic offence capable of putting points on the board from anywhere. They boast a two-headed ground game to complement an exceptional aerial game.
The question would be if the high-flying offence can handle the relentless pressure of the top defensive unit—a a fascinating playoff showdown.
Discussion: Travis Kelce Considering Retirement?
Amid the fallout from the Kansas City's loss, remarks from Patrick Mahomes about his longtime tight end fueled talk about a potential retirement.
Hearing Mahomes say, "each year... I try to appreciate because you never know" definitely seemed like the QB was preparing for the 36-year-old to call it a day.
"He will have the option to do whatever he chooses to do following this season," he added. Should the season concludes early for the Chiefs, the three-time champion winner might decide to walk away.
Looking Ahead: Buffalo vs. Patriots Headlines the Upcoming Slate
Josh Allen did it all once more for his team in a snowy victory. He passed for 3 scores and rushed for one more, responsible for a remarkable portion of his team's total touchdowns this year.
He is the first player in NFL history with 3,000 pass yards, twenty touchdown passes and 10 running touchdowns in 3 consecutive campaigns.
Now, he puts the team on his back once more as they try to catch their AFC East foes, the Patriots—and, that's exactly who they play next.
Key Upcoming Week Games:
- Buffalo Bills @ Patriots
- Lions @ Rams
- Packers @ Broncos
- Los Angeles Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs
This Week's Stats, Records & Notes
- A kickoff return for a 100-yard score—the longest scoring play of the year—kick-started a second-half onslaught for one team.
- A prolific wide receiver scored 2 scores and remains on course for a record-breaking 2,000-yard season.
- A feared defensive end recorded his 20th QB sack of the campaign, moving within reach of the single-season mark.
- An overseas placekicker played a key role for his squad in a surprise win in soggy conditions.
- A offense that was held scoreless one game bounced back with a clean sheet of its own the next.
- A struggling team saw its franchise quarterback return from injury, only to leave the game again with a similar injury.
