Every contest counts from here on in, with several massive outcomes in the fourteenth week that could decide play-off berths by the conclusion of the season.
A 42-year Aaron Rodgers struck a big blow to the Baltimore Ravens' play-off hopes, whereas Josh Allen all-but ended the Cincinnati Bengals' chances. At the same time, the Houston Texans defence presented a huge problem and may have ended the Chiefs' season sooner than ever in the Mahomes era.
Divisional Analysis: Division Deciders Exceed the Expectations
A trio of huge division clashes delivered.
Seasoned signal-caller Rodgers, competing with a injured wrist, steered his squad to a gritty close win in Baltimore. He notched his first rushing score in nearly three seasons, but it was his deep throws to his star wideout that proved to be the difference.
The Ravens' quarterback seemed out of sync as his team failed to capitalize on crucial chances—although they were left fuming by a late score being chalked off. These franchises will meet once more on the final day of the season.
Elsewhere, the longest-running feud in the league saw a epic encounter. Even with touchdown deep passes, an worn-out defense had to stop another fourth-quarter rally from the visiting rookie quarterback in the freezing weather.
The outcome handed one side a slender lead in their NFC North, whereas the losers fell from the NFC's top spot down to seventh.
Analysis: What Has Gone Awry for the Chiefs?
Projections give the Kansas City only a 15% probability of reaching the play-offs. Realistically, this could be the first missed post-season for franchise QB Patrick Mahomes—and the first such for the franchise in a ten years.
In his seven full seasons as a starting quarterback, he has advanced to 7 AFC Championship contests and 5 Super Bowls. This indicates the club has played nearly every possible game during his tenure.
Therefore, the reasons for this year's struggles are evident and were highlighted during the recent loss. Injuries decimated an already questionable O-line, with several starters out.
Even then, Mahomes provided his squad a chance, however failed field goals and crucial drops—including on a pivotal fourth-down attempt—confirmed their downfall.
In Focus: Could the Super Bowl Be Heading for the West?
Two top teams from the West Coast conferences are making compelling cases for Super Bowl favorites.
One team, atop their the AFC, claimed the most recent title held at this year's stadium. They are constructed on a dominant defence that leads the league in sacks and victories through methodical, time-consuming drives.
The other contender, leading the NFC, showcased an dynamic offense capable of putting points on the board from anywhere. They boast a two-headed ground game to pair with an elite aerial game.
The question could be if the high-flying offence can solve the smothering pressure of the top defensive unit—a a fascinating potential matchup.
Discussion: A Star Tight End Considering Retirement?
Amid the aftermath from the Kansas City's defeat, comments from Patrick Mahomes about his longtime teammate sparked rumors about a potential departure.
Listening to him say, "every year... I try to cherish because you never know" certainly seemed like the QB was bracing for the 36-year-old to call it a day.
"He will have the choice to do what he chooses to do following this campaign," Mahomes continued. Should the season ends early for the team, the three-time Super Bowl veteran could choose to retire.
Preview: Bills vs. New England Highlights the Upcoming Slate
Josh Allen put on a show once more for his team in a wintry victory. Allen threw three touchdowns and ran for another, responsible for a remarkable percentage of his team's overall scores this year.
He is the only quarterback in NFL annals with three thousand passing yards, 20 touchdown throws and 10 rushing touchdowns in three consecutive seasons.
Now, he puts the Bills on his shoulders again as they aim to chase down their division foes, the New England Patriots—and, that's precisely who they face next.
Major Upcoming Week Games:
- Bills @ Patriots
- Detroit Lions @ Rams
- Green Bay Packers @ Denver Broncos
- Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs
This Week's Stats, Records & Notes
- A kick-off return for a 100-yard touchdown—the biggest play of the season—sparked a scoring blitz for one offense.
- A star wide receiver caught two scores and is still tracking for a historic 2,000-yard receiving.
- A feared defensive end notched his twentieth QB sack of the season, moving within reach of the single-season mark.
- An overseas kicker played a key role for his team in a upset victory in rainy weather.
- A offense that was held scoreless one game responded with a shutout of its own the next.
- A struggling franchise watched its franchise QB return from injury, only to leave the contest again with a related ailment.
