Every matchup matters from here on in, with a number of enormous results in week 14 that could settle postseason berths by the conclusion of the campaign.
A 42-year veteran quarterback dealt a major blow to the Baltimore Ravens' postseason hopes, whereas Josh Allen all-but terminated Joe Burrow's hopes. Meanwhile, the Houston defense presented a huge problem and could have ended the Chiefs' campaign earlier than ever before in the Mahomes era.
The Breakdown: Division Deciders Live Up To the Anticipation
Three huge rivalry games did not disappoint.
Veteran signal-caller Aaron Rodgers, playing with a fractured wrist, led his team to a gritty 27-22 win in on the road. The future Hall of Famer scored his first rushing score in nearly three years, however it was his deep throws to his top wideout that made the difference.
The Ravens' quarterback seemed off rhythm as Baltimore missed key opportunities—although they were left fuming by a fourth-quarter touchdown being chalked off. The two teams are scheduled to face off again on the last day of the season.
In another, the oldest feud in the NFL witnessed a thrilling encounter. Even with touchdown deep passes, an exhausted defensive unit had to thwart another fourth-quarter comeback from the visiting young QB in the freezing weather.
The result gave one side a narrow lead in their NFC North, whereas the losers fell from the NFC's number one seed down to seventh.
In-Depth Look: What Has Gone Awry for the Chiefs?
Statistical models assign the Chiefs only a 15% probability of making the postseason. Realistically, this could be the initial missed post-season for franchise QB Mahomes—and the first such for the organization in a decade.
During his seven complete years as a starter, he has reached seven AFC Championship games and 5 championship games. This indicates the team has competed in almost every possible game during his tenure.
Therefore, the causes for this year's struggles are apparent and were highlighted during the recent loss. Injuries decimated an already struggling offensive line, with several starters missing.
Despite that, the quarterback gave his squad a chance, but failed field goals and costly dropped passes—such as on a key fourth down attempt—sealed their downfall.
Spotlight: Could the Super Bowl Be Heading for the West?
Two top contenders from the western conferences are building strong arguments for championship favorites.
One team, leading their the AFC, won the last Super Bowl held at this year's stadium. They are constructed on a stifling defense that tops the NFL in sacks and victories through methodical, time-consuming possessions.
The other contender, atop the other conference, showcased an explosive offense capable of putting points on the board from any situation. They boast a formidable running attack to pair with an exceptional passing game.
The question would be if the potent offence could withstand the smothering pressure of the top defense—a a must-watch playoff matchup.
Talking Point: Travis Kelce Pondering Retirement?
Amid the fallout from the Chiefs' defeat, comments from Patrick Mahomes about his longtime teammate sparked speculation about a potential retirement.
Hearing him state, "each year... I try to cherish because you never know" definitely sounded like the QB was bracing for the 36-year-old to call it a day.
"He will have the option to do whatever he chooses to do following this campaign," he continued. If the season concludes prematurely for the Chiefs, the three-time Super Bowl winner could choose to walk away.
Preview: Buffalo vs. New England Headlines Week 15
The Bills' quarterback put on a show once more for Buffalo in a wintry victory. He threw three touchdowns and rushed for one more, responsible for a staggering percentage of his team's total touchdowns this year.
He is the only player in NFL history with 3,000 passing yards, 20 TD passes and ten rushing touchdowns in three consecutive campaigns.
Now, he puts the team on his shoulders again as they aim to catch their AFC East foes, the New England Patriots—coincidentally, they are precisely who they play next.
Major Upcoming Week Games:
- Buffalo Bills @ Patriots
- Lions @ Rams
- Green Bay Packers @ Broncos
- Los Angeles Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs
This Week's Stats, Records & Notes
- A kick-off runback for a 100-yard touchdown—the biggest scoring play of the season—kick-started a second-half onslaught for one team.
- A prolific receiver scored 2 touchdowns and remains on course for a historic 2,000-yard receiving.
- A dominant defensive end notched his 20th sack of the season, moving within reach of the all-time record.
- An international placekicker played a key role for his team in a surprise win in rainy conditions.
- A offense that was shutout one game responded with a clean sheet of its own the next.
- A reeling team saw its star quarterback come back from injury, only to leave the contest again with a related ailment.
