Each matchup counts from here on in, with some massive conclusions in week 14 that may decide play-off positions by the conclusion of the campaign.
A 42-year veteran quarterback landed a significant blow to the Baltimore Ravens' postseason aspirations, while the Buffalo Bills quarterback all-but terminated Joe Burrow's hopes. At the same time, the Houston defense posed a huge challenge and could have ended the Chiefs' season sooner than ever in the Mahomes era.
The Breakdown: Divisional Deciders Live Up To the Expectations
Three huge rivalry games did not disappoint.
Seasoned quarterback Aaron Rodgers, competing with a injured wrist, guided his squad to a tough 27-22 success in on the road. He scored his first running touchdown in almost three seasons, however it was his long passes to his top wideout that proved to be the difference.
The Ravens' quarterback was out of kilter as his team failed to capitalize on crucial chances—although they were left fuming by a fourth-quarter touchdown being nullified. The two teams are scheduled to face off once more on the last day of the regular season.
Elsewhere, the oldest rivalry in the league saw a thrilling contest. Even with touchdown deep passes, an exhausted defensive unit had to thwart another late-game rally from the visiting young QB in the freezing conditions.
This result handed one team a slender lead in their NFC North, while the losers fell from the NFC's top spot down to seventh.
In-Depth Look: What Has Gone Awry for the Chiefs?
Statistical models assign the Chiefs only a fifteen percent probability of reaching the postseason. Realistically, this will be the first missed playoffs for star quarterback Patrick Mahomes—and the first such for the franchise in a decade.
During his seven complete years as a starting quarterback, he has advanced to seven AFC Championship contests and 5 championship games. This means the club has played nearly every possible contest during his time.
So, the causes for this year's struggles are apparent and were summed up during Sunday's defeat. Injuries ravaged an already struggling offensive line, with multiple starters out.
Even then, Mahomes provided his team a chance, however missed kicks and costly drops—including on a pivotal fourth-down attempt—confirmed their fate.
Spotlight: Is the Super Bowl Be Heading for the West?
A pair of top teams from the western divisions are making compelling arguments for championship favorites.
One team, leading their the AFC, won the last Super Bowl held at February's stadium. They are constructed on a stifling defence that leads the NFL in sacks and victories through methodical, long possessions.
The other contender, atop the NFC, demonstrated an high-powered offence capable of scoring from anywhere. They boast a two-headed running game to complement an elite passing game.
The question could be if the high-flying offence can handle the smothering pass rush of the top defensive unit—a a must-watch potential matchup.
Discussion: Travis Kelce Pondering Retirement?
Amid the aftermath from the Kansas City's loss, comments from Patrick Mahomes about his longtime teammate fueled talk about a potential departure.
Hearing Mahomes say, "each season... I try to appreciate because you never know" definitely sounded like he was preparing for the 36-year-old to hang up his cleats.
"He will have the choice to do whatever he chooses to do following this campaign," Mahomes added. If the year concludes prematurely for the team, the three-time Super Bowl winner could choose to retire.
Looking Ahead: Bills vs. New England Highlights the Upcoming Slate
The Bills' quarterback put on a show again for his team in a wintry win. Allen passed for 3 scores and rushed for one more, responsible for a staggering portion of his offense's overall scores this season.
Allen is the first quarterback in league history with three thousand passing yards, twenty touchdown throws and 10 running touchdowns in three straight seasons.
Now, he tries to carry the Bills on his back once more as they try to chase down their division rivals, the New England Patriots—and, they are exactly who they play next.
Major Upcoming Week Games:
- Buffalo Bills @ Patriots
- Lions @ Rams
- Green Bay Packers @ Broncos
- Chargers @ Chiefs
This Week's Statistical Highlights
- A kickoff runback for a 100-yard touchdown—the biggest play of the season—kick-started a second-half onslaught for one offense.
- A star wide receiver scored two touchdowns and is still on course for a record-breaking 2,000-yard season.
- A dominant defensive end notched his 20th sack of the season, moving within reach of the all-time mark.
- An international placekicker played a key role for his squad in a surprise victory in soggy conditions.
- A team that was shutout one week responded with a shutout of its own the next.
- A struggling franchise saw its franchise quarterback return from an elbow issue, only to leave the contest again with a similar ailment.
