Every game matters from here on in, with some enormous conclusions in week 14 that may decide postseason berths by the conclusion of the campaign.
A 42-year-old veteran quarterback struck a big blow to Lamar Jackson's play-off hopes, whereas Josh Allen all-but ended the Cincinnati Bengals' hopes. At the same time, the Houston Texans defense presented a significant challenge and could have ended the Chiefs' campaign earlier than ever in the Patrick Mahomes era.
The Breakdown: Divisional Deciders Exceed the Expectations
Three massive division clashes did not disappoint.
Veteran signal-caller Aaron Rodgers, competing with a injured wrist, led his squad to a hard-fought close success in on the road. The future Hall of Famer recorded his initial rushing touchdown in almost three years, however it was his deep passes to his star receiver that made the difference.
The Ravens' quarterback was out of sync as Baltimore missed key chances—though they were frustrated by a fourth-quarter touchdown being chalked off. These franchises are scheduled to face off once more on the last weekend of the season.
In another, the longest-running feud in the league saw a classic encounter. Despite touchdown bombs, an exhausted defensive unit had to thwart another fourth-quarter rally from the opposing rookie quarterback in the freezing weather.
The outcome handed one side a slender advantage in their NFC North, while the losers dropped from the conference's top spot down to seventh.
In-Depth Look: Where Has It Gone Wrong for the Kansas City Chiefs?
Projections give the Kansas City only a fifteen percent chance of reaching the play-offs. In all likelihood, this will be the initial missed playoffs for franchise QB Patrick Mahomes—and the first such for the franchise in a decade.
In Mahomes' seven full seasons as a starter, he has advanced to 7 conference championship contests and five championship games. That means the club has played nearly every available contest during his time.
So, the causes for the current struggles are apparent and were highlighted during the recent loss. Injuries decimated an already dodgy O-line, with multiple key players missing.
Even then, the quarterback gave his team a chance, but missed kicks and costly dropped passes—including on a key fourth down play—confirmed their downfall.
Spotlight: Could the Lombardi Trophy Be Destined for the Western US?
Two top teams from the West Coast divisions are building compelling cases for Super Bowl favorites.
One squad, atop their the AFC, won the most recent title played at February's venue. They are constructed on a stifling defense that tops the NFL in quarterback takedowns and victories through grinding, long drives.
The second team, leading the NFC, showcased an explosive offence capable of scoring from any situation. They feature a two-headed ground attack to complement an exceptional aerial game.
A key matchup could be whether the potent offense can handle the relentless pass rush of the top defense—what would be a fascinating potential matchup.
Discussion: Travis Kelce Considering Retirement?
Amid the aftermath from the Kansas City's defeat, remarks from Patrick Mahomes about his longtime tight end sparked talk about a possible departure.
Hearing him say, "each season... I try to cherish since you never know" certainly sounded like the QB was bracing for the veteran to call it a day.
"He will have the choice to do what he wants to do following this season," Mahomes continued. If the season ends prematurely for the team, the 3x Super Bowl winner might choose to retire.
Looking Ahead: Buffalo vs. New England Headlines the Upcoming Slate
Josh Allen put on a show again for Buffalo in a wintry victory. He threw 3 scores and rushed for another, accounting for a remarkable percentage of his offense's overall scores this year.
He is the first quarterback in league history with 3,000 passing yards, 20 touchdown throws and ten rushing scores in 3 consecutive campaigns.
Now, he puts the team on his back once more as they try to chase down their AFC East foes, the New England Patriots—and, that's exactly who they face next.
Key Upcoming Week Games:
- Buffalo Bills @ New England Patriots
- Lions @ Rams
- Green Bay Packers @ Broncos
- Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs
Week 14 Statistical Highlights
- A kick-off return for a 100-yard score—the longest play of the season—sparked a second-half onslaught for one team.
- A star receiver scored 2 touchdowns and remains tracking for a historic 2,000-yard season.
- A feared pass rusher recorded his 20th sack of the season, moving within reach of the all-time mark.
- An international placekicker helped his team in a upset win in soggy conditions.
- A offense that was shutout one game responded with a shutout of its own the next.
- A struggling franchise saw its star quarterback come back from injury, only to leave the contest once more with a related injury.
