Each matchup matters from here on in, with some massive results in week 14 that could settle play-off spots by the end of the year.
A 42-year veteran quarterback dealt a big setback to Lamar Jackson's play-off aspirations, while Josh Allen virtually finished the Cincinnati Bengals' hopes. Meanwhile, the Houston Texans defence presented a massive problem and may have concluded the Kansas City Chiefs campaign earlier than ever in the Patrick Mahomes tenure.
Divisional Analysis: Division Deciders Live Up To the Expectations
A trio of critical division clashes did not disappoint.
Veteran signal-caller Rodgers, competing with a fractured wrist, led his squad to a tough close victory in Baltimore. He recorded his initial rushing score in nearly three seasons, however it was his deep throws to his top wideout that made the deciding factor.
Lamar Jackson was out of kilter as Baltimore failed to capitalize on key chances—though they were left fuming by a fourth-quarter touchdown being chalked off. The two teams are scheduled to face off again on the final day of the season.
In another, the oldest feud in the NFL saw a classic contest. Even with scoring deep passes, an exhausted defensive unit had to stop another late-game comeback from the visiting rookie quarterback in the freezing conditions.
The outcome gave one team a narrow advantage in their division, while the defeated team dropped from the conference's top spot down to outside the playoff picture.
Analysis: What Has Gone Wrong for the Chiefs?
Projections give the Chiefs only a 15% probability of making the postseason. In all likelihood, this could be the first missed playoffs for star quarterback Mahomes—and the first such for the franchise in a decade.
During his 7 complete seasons as a starting quarterback, he has reached 7 conference championship games and 5 championship games. This means the team has competed in nearly every possible game during his time.
So, the reasons for the current failure are evident and were highlighted during Sunday's defeat. Injuries ravaged an already struggling O-line, with several starters missing.
Despite that, the quarterback gave his squad a chance, but failed field goals and costly drops—such as on a pivotal fourth down play—sealed their fate.
Spotlight: Is the Lombardi Trophy Be Destined for the West?
Two top contenders from the West Coast conferences are making compelling arguments for championship contention.
One squad, atop their conference, won the last title played at this year's stadium. They are built on a stifling defense that leads the league in sacks and victories through grinding, long drives.
The second contender, atop the other conference, showcased an explosive offense capable of scoring from anywhere. They boast a two-headed running attack to complement an exceptional passing attack.
A key matchup would be whether the potent offense can solve the relentless pressure of the top defense—a a must-watch potential matchup.
Talking Point: Travis Kelce Pondering Calling It Quits?
Amid the fallout from the Chiefs' loss, remarks from Patrick Mahomes about his star tight end fueled talk about a possible departure.
Hearing Mahomes state, "every year... I try to appreciate because you never know" definitely seemed like the QB was bracing for the veteran to call it a day.
"He will have the choice to do whatever he chooses to do following this campaign," he continued. If the year ends prematurely for the Chiefs, the three-time champion winner might decide to retire.
Looking Ahead: Buffalo vs. Patriots Headlines the Upcoming Slate
Josh Allen did it all once more for Buffalo in a wintry victory. Allen threw three touchdowns and rushed for one more, accounting for a staggering percentage of his team's overall touchdowns this year.
Allen is the only player in league history with 3,000 pass yards, twenty TD throws and ten rushing touchdowns in 3 straight campaigns.
Now, he puts the team on his back again as they try to chase down their AFC East foes, the Patriots—coincidentally, they are precisely who they face next.
Major Upcoming Week Games:
- Bills @ Patriots
- Detroit Lions @ Los Angeles Rams
- Green Bay Packers @ Broncos
- Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs
Week 14 Statistical Highlights
- A kick-off return for a 100-yard score—the biggest scoring play of the season—sparked a scoring blitz for one offense.
- A star receiver scored 2 scores and is still tracking for a historic 2,000-yard season.
- A feared defensive end recorded his twentieth sack of the season, closing in of the all-time record.
- An international placekicker helped his squad in a surprise victory in soggy conditions.
- A offense that was shutout one week bounced back with a shutout of its own the following week.
- A struggling team saw its franchise quarterback come back from injury, only to exit the game once more with a similar ailment.
