Every game is crucial from here on in, with a number of huge conclusions in the fourteenth week that could determine play-off spots by the conclusion of the year.
A 42-year Aaron Rodgers dealt a major setback to Lamar Jackson's play-off hopes, while Josh Allen all-but terminated Joe Burrow's hopes. Meanwhile, the Houston defense presented a huge problem and may have ended the Chiefs' campaign sooner than ever before in the Patrick Mahomes era.
Divisional Analysis: Divisional Deciders Live Up To the Expectations
A trio of massive divisional battles delivered.
Seasoned quarterback Aaron Rodgers, competing with a injured wrist, steered his squad to a gritty 27-22 victory in Baltimore. The future Hall of Famer scored his initial running touchdown in almost three seasons, but it was his deep passes to his star receiver that proved to be the difference.
The Ravens' quarterback seemed out of kilter as his team failed to capitalize on key chances—though they were angry by a fourth-quarter touchdown being chalked off. These teams will meet once more on the last day of the season.
In another, the oldest feud in the league saw a thrilling contest. Even with scoring bombs, an worn-out defensive unit had to thwart another late-game rally from the opposing rookie QB in the freezing weather.
The outcome handed one side a narrow lead in their division, while the defeated team plummeted from the NFC's number one seed all the way to seventh.
Analysis: What Has Gone Wrong for the Chiefs?
Projections assign the Chiefs only a 15% chance of making the postseason. In all likelihood, this could be the first missed post-season for franchise QB Mahomes—and the first such for the organization in a decade.
During his seven complete seasons as a starter, he has reached 7 conference championship games and five Super Bowls. That indicates the club has played almost every possible game throughout his time.
Therefore, the reasons for the current failure are apparent and were encapsulated during Sunday's loss. Injuries ravaged an already dodgy O-line, with several key players missing.
Even then, the quarterback provided his team a chance, however failed field goals and critical drops—including on a pivotal fourth-down play—sealed their downfall.
Spotlight: Could the Super Bowl Be Destined for the Western US?
A pair of top teams from the western conferences are making compelling arguments for championship favorites.
One squad, leading their the AFC, won the most recent title held at this year's stadium. They are constructed on a stifling defence that tops the league in sacks and victories through methodical, time-consuming possessions.
The other team, atop the other conference, showcased an dynamic offense capable of scoring from anywhere. They boast a two-headed running game to complement an exceptional passing game.
The question would be if the potent offense can withstand the smothering pass rush of the elite defensive unit—a a fascinating potential matchup.
Talking Point: A Star Tight End Considering Retirement?
Among the aftermath from the Kansas City's loss, comments from Patrick Mahomes about his longtime tight end fueled talk about a possible retirement.
Listening to him state, "every season... I try to cherish because you never know" definitely sounded like the QB was preparing for the veteran to hang up his cleats.
"The tight end will have the option to do what he wants to do after this campaign," he continued. If the year ends prematurely for the Chiefs, the three-time champion winner could decide to retire.
Looking Ahead: Bills vs. New England Headlines the Upcoming Slate
The Bills' quarterback did it all again for Buffalo in a wintry victory. He passed for three scores and rushed for another, responsible for a remarkable percentage of his team's total touchdowns this year.
He is the only player in NFL history with 3,000 pass yards, twenty touchdown throws and ten rushing scores in 3 straight seasons.
Next, he tries to carry the team on his back again as they try to catch their AFC East foes, the New England Patriots—and, they are precisely who they face this coming Sunday.
Major Upcoming Week Games:
- Bills @ New England Patriots
- Detroit Lions @ Los Angeles Rams
- Packers @ Denver Broncos
- Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs
This Week's Stats, Records & Notes
- A kick-off return for a 100-yard touchdown—the longest play of the year—kick-started a second-half onslaught for one offense.
- A prolific wide receiver scored two touchdowns and is still on course for a record-breaking 2,000-yard season.
- A dominant pass rusher recorded his 20th QB sack of the season, moving within reach of the all-time record.
- An overseas kicker played a key role for his squad in a surprise victory in rainy weather.
- A offense that was held scoreless one game bounced back with a clean sheet of its own the following week.
- A reeling team saw its star QB return from an elbow issue, only to exit the contest once more with a similar ailment.
