Every matchup counts from here on in, with a number of enormous results in week 14 that could settle postseason spots come the end of the season.
A 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers dealt a significant setback to Lamar Jackson's play-off aspirations, while Josh Allen virtually ended Joe Burrow's chances. At the same time, the Houston defense presented a huge problem and may have ended the Chiefs' season sooner than ever in the Patrick Mahomes tenure.
The Breakdown: Division Showdowns Live Up To the Hype
Three critical rivalry games delivered.
Seasoned quarterback Aaron Rodgers, playing with a injured wrist, led his team to a gritty 27-22 success in Baltimore. He notched his first rushing touchdown in almost three seasons, however it was his deep throws to his top receiver that made the difference.
The Ravens' quarterback seemed out of kilter as Baltimore missed key opportunities—although they were frustrated by a fourth-quarter touchdown being chalked off. These teams are scheduled to face off once more on the final weekend of the regular season.
Elsewhere, the longest-running rivalry in the NFL witnessed a thrilling encounter. Despite scoring deep passes, an worn-out defense had to halt another late-game rally from the visiting young quarterback in the frigid conditions.
The result gave one side a slender advantage in their NFC North, whereas the defeated team plummeted from the NFC's number one seed down to outside the playoff picture.
Analysis: Where Has It Gone Wrong for the Chiefs?
Projections assign the Kansas City only a 15% probability of reaching the play-offs. In all likelihood, this could be the initial missed post-season for star quarterback Mahomes—and the first for the organization in a ten years.
In his 7 complete seasons as a starter, he has advanced to seven conference championship contests and five Super Bowls. This indicates the team has played nearly every available game throughout his time.
Therefore, the causes for this year's struggles are clear and were summed up during the recent loss. Injuries ravaged an already struggling O-line, with multiple starters missing.
Despite that, Mahomes gave his squad a chance, but missed field goals and critical dropped passes—including on a pivotal fourth-down attempt—confirmed their downfall.
In Focus: Is the Super Bowl Be Destined for the West?
Two powerhouse teams from the West Coast conferences are building compelling arguments for Super Bowl favorites.
One squad, atop their the AFC, won the most recent title played at this year's venue. They are constructed on a stifling defense that tops the league in quarterback takedowns and wins through methodical, time-consuming possessions.
The other contender, atop the other conference, demonstrated an dynamic offense capable of scoring from anywhere. They boast a formidable ground game to pair with an exceptional aerial game.
A key matchup could be whether the potent offense can solve the smothering pressure of the elite defensive unit—what would be a must-watch potential showdown.
Talking Point: A Star Tight End Considering Retirement?
Among the aftermath from the Kansas City's defeat, remarks from Patrick Mahomes about his star tight end sparked rumors about a possible departure.
Listening to Mahomes state, "each season... I try to cherish because you never know" definitely sounded like the QB was bracing for the 36-year-old to hang up his cleats.
"The tight end will have the choice to do what he wants to do following this campaign," he continued. Should the year ends early for the team, the 3x Super Bowl winner might decide to walk away.
Looking Ahead: Buffalo vs. Patriots Highlights Week 15
Josh Allen put on a show once more for his team in a wintry win. Allen passed for 3 scores and ran for one more, accounting for a staggering portion of his team's overall touchdowns this season.
He is the first quarterback in league annals with 3,000 passing yards, 20 TD throws and 10 rushing scores in 3 consecutive campaigns.
Next, he puts the team on his back again as they aim to catch their division rivals, the Patriots—coincidentally, that's exactly who they play this coming Sunday.
Major Upcoming Week Matchups:
- Bills @ Patriots
- Lions @ Rams
- Green Bay Packers @ Broncos
- Chargers @ Chiefs
This Week's Stats, Records & Notes
- A kickoff return for a 100-yard score—the biggest scoring play of the season—kick-started a scoring blitz for one offense.
- A star wide receiver caught two scores and remains tracking for a record-breaking 2,000-yard season.
- A feared pass rusher notched his twentieth sack of the campaign, closing in of the all-time record.
- An overseas placekicker helped his squad in a upset win in soggy weather.
- A offense that was held scoreless one week bounced back with a shutout of its own the next.
- A reeling franchise saw its franchise QB return from an elbow issue, only to exit the contest once more with a related ailment.
