🔗 Share this article

Each game is crucial down the stretch, with some massive results in week 14 that might settle postseason berths come the conclusion of the season.

A 42-year-old veteran quarterback struck a big blow to Lamar Jackson's postseason hopes, while the Buffalo Bills quarterback virtually ended the Cincinnati Bengals' hopes. At the same time, the Houston defence posed a massive problem and could have concluded the Kansas City Chiefs campaign sooner than ever in the Patrick Mahomes tenure.

The Breakdown: Division Showdowns Live Up To the Anticipation

Three massive rivalry games did not disappoint.

Veteran quarterback Rodgers, playing with a injured wrist, led his squad to a gritty 27-22 success in Baltimore. The future Hall of Famer notched his first rushing touchdown in almost three seasons, however it was his long passes to his top receiver that made the deciding factor.

The Ravens' quarterback seemed off rhythm as his team failed to capitalize on crucial chances—though they were left fuming by a fourth-quarter touchdown being nullified. These franchises are scheduled to face off again on the final weekend of the regular season.

In another, the longest-running feud in the NFL saw a epic contest. Even with touchdown bombs, an worn-out defense had to thwart another late-game rally from the visiting rookie QB in the freezing weather.

The result handed one team a slender advantage in their NFC North, whereas the defeated team fell from the NFC's number one seed all the way to outside the playoff picture.

Analysis: Where Has It Gone Wrong for the Chiefs?

Projections give the Chiefs only a 15% probability of reaching the play-offs. Realistically, this will be the initial missed post-season for franchise QB Patrick Mahomes—and the first for the franchise in a decade.

In Mahomes' seven complete years as a starting quarterback, he has advanced to 7 conference championship games and 5 Super Bowls. This indicates the club has played almost every available game during his tenure.

So, the causes for this year's failure are clear and were encapsulated during Sunday's loss. Injuries decimated an already questionable offensive line, with several starters out.

Despite that, the quarterback gave his squad a chance, however missed kicks and crucial dropped passes—such as on a key fourth down attempt—sealed their fate.

Spotlight: Could the Super Bowl Be Destined for the Western US?

Two top teams from the West Coast conferences are building strong arguments for Super Bowl contention.

One team, leading their the AFC, won the most recent Super Bowl played at this year's venue. They are constructed on a stifling defence that tops the league in sacks and victories through grinding, long possessions.

The second team, atop the NFC, showcased an high-powered offence capable of scoring from any situation. They feature a formidable running attack to complement an exceptional aerial attack.

The question would be whether the high-flying offence can withstand the smothering pressure of the elite defensive unit—a a must-watch playoff matchup.

Talking Point: A Star Tight End Considering Retirement?

Among the fallout from the Chiefs' defeat, comments from the quarterback about his star tight end fueled speculation about a possible departure.

Hearing Mahomes say, "each year... I try to appreciate since you never know" definitely sounded like he was preparing for the veteran to call it a day.

"He will have the option to do what he chooses to do following this campaign," Mahomes added. Should the season concludes early for the Chiefs, the 3x Super Bowl veteran could decide to retire.

Looking Ahead: Buffalo vs. New England Highlights the Upcoming Slate

Josh Allen did it all once more for Buffalo in a wintry victory. Allen threw 3 touchdowns and rushed for another, responsible for a remarkable portion of his team's overall touchdowns this season.

Allen is the only player in league annals with 3,000 pass yards, 20 TD throws and 10 running touchdowns in three consecutive seasons.

Now, he tries to carry the Bills on his back once more as they aim to catch their division rivals, the Patriots—and, they are exactly who they face next.

Major Week 15 Matchups:

• Bills @ Patriots
• Lions @ Los Angeles Rams
• Packers @ Denver Broncos
• Los Angeles Chargers @ Chiefs

This Week's Statistical Highlights

• A kickoff runback for a 100-yard touchdown—the longest scoring play of the year—sparked a second-half onslaught for one team.
• A star receiver scored 2 scores and remains tracking for a record-breaking 2,000-yard season.
• A feared defensive end notched his 20th sack of the campaign, moving within reach of the single-season record.
• An international kicker played a key role for his squad in a surprise victory in soggy weather.
• A offense that was shutout one week responded with a shutout of its own the next.
• A struggling team watched its star quarterback come back from injury, only to leave the contest once more with a related injury.